Domestic & Sexual Violence
Michele Bessette is our Advocate & Outreach Coordinator for the Tribal Office. She holds a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from Northern Vermont University and both a Bachelor's in Psychology and an Associate in Human Services from the Community College of Vermont. Michele actively oversees initiatives through the STOP and VOICES Grants.
A Personal Message from Michele
Hi, my name is Michele Bessette, and I am the Advocate Outreach Coordinator for the STOP Grant at the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi. In my role, I advocate for and support families impacted by domestic or sexual violence, whether at the office or out in the community.
I provide resources and collaborate with other community partners to help individuals regain stability. This includes offering emotional support during court proceedings, assisting with restraining orders, and more.
Additionally, I organize and participate in events within the community and surrounding schools. These events focus on sharing educational resources about domestic and sexual violence, addressing issues like intimate partner violence, teen relationship violence, dating, stalking, online stalking, human trafficking, and bullying.
Every Monday night, I host a support group called "Find Your Voice," open from 5 to 7 pm. It's a safe space for anyone seeking support or simply wishing to chat. I also provide education on substance misuse prevention.
Michele Bessette
Advocate & Outreach Coordinator
- 24/7 Hotline: (802) 241-1250
- Tribal Office: (802) 868-6255
- Michele's Direct Line: (802) 782-3843
STOP Grant
The Vermont Center for Crime Victim Services administers the Violence Against Women Act: Services, Training, Officers, and Prosecution (VAWA STOP) Grant. This formula grant program is made available through the United States Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women.
VOICES Grant
Helping and referring victims of domestic and sexual violence access the transitional housing resources they need to be safe and self-sufficient.
