End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin (End Abuse) announced on April 17 that The Asha Project – formerly known as Asha Family Services (Asha) – will no longer be under the umbrella of the coalition as an independent project as of April 18, 2025. Following several years of planned temporary coalition affiliation, they will again function as a standalone program as was outlined when joining the coalition as a project to re-establish fully autonomous services.
As one of the first culturally specific domestic violence program in the country, Asha has been a critical and unique part of the City of Milwaukee’s safety net for more than 30 years.
“Their time at the Coalition was always temporary,” offered End Abuse Executive Director Monique Minkens. “While at End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin, their presence enhanced our work and view of service to victims and survivors. We wish them so much success, and hope the community and donors will make the shift with them by continuing to offer their collaboration and support.”
Their departure is a time of continuous celebration for what the organization represents and all they do for the Milwaukee community and beyond.
To learn more about Asha’s work, including their role in the We Are Here MKE collective comprising seven culturally specific domestic & sexual violence programs in Milwaukee, visit www.ashafamilyservices.org.
Note to Media:
We encourage reporters to include the National Domestic Violence Hotline [1−800−799−SAFE (7233)] and the National Sexual Assault Hotline [1-800-656-4673] in their stories for victims who need help.A list of local Wisconsin domestic violence victim service providers can be found at www.endabusewi.org/get-help. A list of local WI sexual assault victim service providers can be found at www.wcasa.org/survivors/service-providers.
End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin: The Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence (End Abuse, www.endabusewi.org) is the leading voice for victims of domestic abuse in Wisconsin. At End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin, we educate shelter and program volunteers and advocates, law enforcement, legislators, and community members to provide safety and support to survivors. We strive to shift Wisconsin from the attitudes and beliefs that cause domestic violence to values of mutual respect and equity, and we partner with communities in the effort to prevent and end domestic abuse.
The Asha Project, formerly Asha Family Services, Inc. (Asha), began work in 1988 in the city of Milwaukee and is founded by Antonia A Drew Vann, now Norton, who continues to lead its program design, development, and services. Asha continues as the state of Wisconsin’s first African American, culturally specific domestic abuse victim serving organization and is also one of the first such organizations in the United States. Asha has a long distinct and rich history of providing culturally responsive, trauma informed programs and services, and amassing numerous awards and recognitions for its pioneering work including influencing changes in policy and practice.