Apr 1, 2026

Janet Michael sits down with Melanie Stull, Administrative Assistant and Volunteer Coordinator for Phoenix Project, to discuss Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the many ways the organization serves survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Front Royal and Warren County. Chamber President Niki Foster then joins Janet to share upcoming Chamber events, including Coffee & Conversation and the Virginia Wine & Craft Festival.

Phoenix Project Segment

What is Phoenix Project? Phoenix Project is Warren County's community response to domestic and sexual violence. All services are free and confidential and include:

• Court accompaniment
• Hospital accompaniment for forensic exams
• Child and sexual assault counseling
• Court advocacy
• 24/7 hotlines

New: Phoenix Project is hiring for a Firearm Intervention Program position — addressing the fact that lethality in domestic violence situations rises 600% when a firearm is involved.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month (April) Activities:

• Teal ribbon displays along Main Street and at local businesses
• "What Were You Wearing" exhibit — a powerful display challenging misconceptions about sexual assault
• Healing Art Support Group for adults (led by sexual assault advocate Aaliya)
• First-ever Children's Healing Art Group for ages 9–12 (Saturday sessions)

Volunteering with Phoenix Project:

• Hotline support (Level 1 & 2 training provided — all materials included)
• Event support
• Office assistance
• Community outreach and advocacy
• The hotline comes to you — no need to come into the office

Hotline Number: 540-635-2300

• Office line: 540-635-2302

Website: phoenix-project.org

Chamber Segment

Coffee & Conversation

• When: First Friday of every month, 9–10 AM
• Where: On Cue Sports Bar, Main Street, Front Royal
• This month's guest: Avery Harper, Executive Director of Phoenix Project
• Open to everyone — not just business owners

Virginia Wine & Craft Festival

• Date: Saturday, May 16th
• Tickets: wineandcraftfestival.com
• Buy online now for $30 (save $10 vs. gate price of $40)
• Ticket includes: wine glass, wristband, and unlimited tastings from 24 wineries
• 100+ artisans and crafters, food vendors, kids' area, live entertainment
• Free general admission for non-wine drinkers
• Great Mother's Day gift idea!

Lead Share Networking Group

• Meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month at 8:30 AM
• Location: Front Royal Warren County Chamber office
• Ideal for those looking to build their network in a structured, small-group setting

Chamber Resources:

• Website: frontroyalchamber.com
• Facebook: Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce

Key Topics Discussed

• The dangers survivors face when leaving an abusive situation
• Why "just leaving" is not simple — and why it's the most dangerous time
• The "What Were You Wearing" exhibit and dismantling victim-blaming myths
• Human trafficking in Warren County
• How children are more aware of household violence than parents realize
• The Lethality Assessment Protocol (LAP) hotline in partnership with local law enforcement
• Safety planning for both intimate partner violence and stranger violence