By Isabelle Perez, Communications Intern at Hubbard House
When I first began my internship at Hubbard House, I knew I wanted to make a difference, but I had no idea just how profoundly this experience would change me. My name is Isabelle Perez, and I’m a senior studying Communications at the University of North Florida. As a Communications intern at Hubbard House, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing how education, advocacy, and community connection can breathe hope into the lives of survivors and help lead to a future free from domestic violence.
At Hubbard House, our mission is clear and unwavering: safety, empowerment, and social change for victims of domestic violence and their families. Our vision is even more powerful, every relationship violence-free. It’s this vision that guides our work every day. Through community education, we not only raise awareness, but also build empathy, challenge harmful norms, and create lasting change.
Throughout my time here, I’ve been part of incredible events and initiatives that have shown me how change starts with conversation and compassion. From a powerful speaking engagement to tabling at a community event, to helping coach teammates, to observing prevention education in local schools, each moment has affirmed my belief in the power of prevention and support.
The Speaking Engagement
One of my earliest and most meaningful experiences was attending a community event where Stephanie Brown, Director of Community Education at Hubbard House, spoke to a local nonprofit supporting victim of human trafficking.
Her presentation highlighted domestic violence and the comprehensive resources Hubbard House provides.
Stephanie outlined how their 24/7 hotline and textline connect survivors with trained advocates who begin safety planning immediately. She explained that whether someone needs emergency shelter, counseling, legal aid, or job and housing support, Hubbard House is there every step of the way.
She elaborated on the emergency shelter, where survivors and their children receive not only safe beds and meals, but also one-on-one advocacy, counseling, group support, assistance with protective orders, legal guidance, and help with job readiness and financial empowerment, all free of charge.
Listening to her, I realized that Hubbard House isn’t just about stories—it’s about actionable support. Each service, from hotline counseling to job training or legal advocacy, is carefully designed to empower survivors and help them rebuild. In that room, I saw how resource-driven education can truly transform lives—moving hearts toward healing, equity, and real change.
Reaching Hearts in the Community: Tabling at a community event
One Saturday morning, I represented Hubbard House at a community event specifically focused on the positive influence of supportive fathers and resources available for local families. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But throughout the day, I had meaningful conversations with attendees who were curious, concerned, and eager to learn more about healthy relationships and how to stop relationship-based violence.
One interaction will always stay with me. A woman approached our table quietly, asked for help, and- right then and there- we were able to help her connect and get transportation to Hubbard House’s emergency shelter. That moment reminded me that advocacy is not always loud. It is often found in the quiet courage of someone reaching out and in the readiness of someone being there to answer.
Engaging with fathers and men at the event was powerful. They play such a crucial role in shaping relationships at home, in schools, and in the workplace. By inviting them into conversations about respect, accountability, and love, we lay the groundwork for a safer and more supportive community.
Innovation Meets Impact: Coaching colleagues
Another highlight of my internship has been participating in a new education project Hubbard House is building for engaging men and boys in building a future without violence against women and girls.
It is about challenging harmful norms, fostering strong partnerships, and promoting respect from an early age.
I was part of a coaching session where I gave feedback and helped role-play likely scenarios with participants, as part of a practice facilitation. The energy in the room was inspiring. Creative ideas were flowing and there was a genuine desire to understand, reflect, and do better. It was one of those moments where I saw prevention work in real time: empowering, engaging, and full of possibility.
This project, like so much of Hubbard House’s work, reminded me that real change happens when we invest in education and prevention. When we plant seeds of awareness early on, we help grow generations that reject violence and choose compassion.
A Future Fueled by Awareness and Action
Looking back on these experiences, I feel deeply grateful. Grateful for the survivors who trust Hubbard House. Grateful for the staff and volunteers who give their all. And grateful for the opportunity to be part of a mission that truly matters. These moments have strengthened my commitment to using my voice for advocacy and to supporting others in finding theirs.
Community education is hope in action. It is a powerful tool that not only informs but transforms. And you can be part of it. Have honest conversations with your loved ones. Volunteer. Educate yourself and others. Donate and support this work. Every step matters.
As we say at Hubbard House, every relationship violence-free. Let’s work toward that future together!
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde
Let’s keep showing up for each other with hope, with action, and with heart.