About Project DOVE

To break the cycle of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking as well as human trafficking in our community by providing shelter, intervention, prevention, education and support services for adults and children.

Project DOVE is a nonprofit organization that provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking in Malheur County. The mission of the organization is to break the cycle of domestic and sexual violence in our community through awareness, prevention, and intervention.

Project DOVE was founded in 1981 by Judge Patricia Sullivan, Jim Jones, and other concerned citizens. The original members were Vicki Fugate, Marla Gaarenstroom, Camilla Mallonee, Patricia Sully, Janelle Irving, Paula Becks, and Mary Lewis.

It wasn’t until after Lester Reger killed his wife, Simona Sutton, in 1984, that the effort gained momentum locally. Before Sutton’s death, Malheur County domestic violence victims and their children were housed in motel rooms, and the agency was run by volunteers.

To pursue its mission, Project DOVE offers safe refuge and support to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human trafficking. The programs and services inform survivors of their options and support them in their choices. A cornerstone of the organization’s philosophy is respect for survivors’ rights including the right to decide whether to report to the police the crime or crimes committed against them. Project DOVE works with survivors of any race, economic status, disability, citizenship status, age or sexual orientation.