About
Dove Center provides free, confidential safety, advocacy and counseling services to adults and children in Garrett County whose lives have been affected by domestic violence or sexual assault. Its main business office is at 882 Memorial Dr in Oakland, and its 24/7 help line is answered at any hour.
Free, Confidential Help
Dove Center serves people affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, teen dating violence and child abuse, including children who have witnessed violence at home. All victim services are free and confidential, and include:
- A 24/7 help line and 24/7 emergency shelter
- Safety planning and individual counseling
- Periodic support groups, including the JEWELS group for women dealing with trauma and addiction
- Advocacy for housing, financial, employment, child care, legal and medical needs, and accompaniment to appointments
- Free 911 cell phones
- Temporary care for dogs and cats through the SAF-T (Sheltering Animals and Families Together) program, with veterinary care through HART for Animals
Because leaving an abuser often means worrying about pets too, that last service can make a real difference. Counselors also work in county schools, spend time at Garrett College and run an outreach counseling office in Grantsville.
Programs for Change
Dove Center runs a 26-week Abuse Intervention Program, a group education course for people who want to change abusive behavior, and offers a Speakers' Bureau for community groups that want to learn more.
Ways to Help
Trained volunteers help on the help line, in shelter and through court watch, and others pitch in at fundraisers such as the Festival of Trees. Donations of money, gift cards, toiletries, clothing, linens and household supplies go straight to the people the center serves.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911; for support at any hour, call the help line below.
Address
882 Memorial Dr, Oakland, MD 21550