With SOAR, I’m free

by Elvia Sanchez

Sisters Overcoming Abusive Relationships (SOAR), in my eyes, is confidence.

Being part of SOAR has increased my self-esteem by a googol* percent. I have a better understanding of my experience which helped me pick myself up, dust myself off and elevate my personal expectations to try and fulfill my dreams.

SOAR in my mind is progress.

I discovered a powerful voice within that would have never emerged without SOAR and the one-on-one coaching for media presentations. With the trainings on domestic violence I have had the opportunity to go out and educate the community and promote change. I have become part of the movement that is paving the road to end domestic violence.

SOAR in my heart is pride.

I can now stand tall. In SOAR we are united for a common cause. We will change legislation. We will create a more just system.

SOAR in my soul is empowerment.

Just like I learned to be oppressed, I have learned to rise above and beyond and handle every challenge with intelligence and certainty. I am a fighter. I fought to survive and now I fight for change within myself and the community.

With heads held high and hand in hand, in SOAR, we march together fearlessly towards a better tomorrow.

*10,100 percent

About the author

Elvia Sanchez

Elvia Sanchez is a 23-year-old college student. She experienced domestic violence as a teenager. Elvia joined SOAR in 2007 and since then has been active in raising awareness about dating violence by giving presentations at schools and colleges around Rhode Island. 

SOAR is an advocacy project that empowers survivors of domestic violence. It was funded by Self-Development in January 2009.