Reflecting on 20 Years of the Family Justice Center
This year marks a remarkable milestone—20 years since the dream of a Family Justice Center in Riverside County first began. What started in 2003 as a visionary goal to support survivors of violence has transformed into a countywide network of compassion, collaboration, and care.
Inspired by President George W. Bush’s 2003 Family Justice Center Initiative, Riverside County was one of the first regions in the nation to take action. The initiative launched a new model: a one-stop center where survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault, elder abuse, and human trafficking could receive comprehensive support under one roof.
By 2005, thanks to the leadership of District Attorney Grover Trask and a strong coalition of founding partners, the Riverside Family Justice Center officially opened its doors. We quickly became the first county in the United States to operate more than one Family Justice Center, with the Murrieta location opening in 2006 and the Indio location following in 2013.
Our Founding Partners Included:
- Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
- Riverside County District Attorney’s Office
- Riverside Police Department
- Indio Police Department
- Department of Public Social Services
- Public Law Center
- Safe Alternatives for Everyone (SAFE)
- Shelter From the Storm
- Alternatives to Domestic Violence
- Riverside Area Rape Crisis Center (now NORA)
- Riverside County Probation Department
- Inland Counties Legal Services
Each partner played a crucial role in shaping a center that would stand as a refuge for survivors and a symbol of hope for families seeking justice.
Over the past 20 years, our Family Justice Centers have evolved—but our mission remains the same: to ensure safety, protect families, seek justice, and restore hope. Today, our partnerships are stronger than ever. Multiagency collaboration isn’t just a goal—it’s embedded in our daily work. Together, we serve thousands of individuals annually, providing legal support, counseling, advocacy, crisis intervention, and long-term healing.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate two decades of service, we are also looking to the future—continuing to grow, adapt, and innovate to meet the complex needs of those we serve. Our work is not finished, but we are proud of the legacy we’ve built: a legacy defined by resilience, empathy, and unity.
To every partner, advocate, survivor, and supporter who has been part of this journey—thank you.
Here’s to the next 20 years of hope and healing.
