Mission & History

AWARENESS. STRENGTH. PEACE.

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Mission & History

Holistic Support For South Asian Victims

CHETNA is a non-profit agency specializing in holistic services for South Asian victims of domestic violence. CHETNA was incorporated in 2005 and serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area and surrounding counties. CHETNA recognizes the unique barriers and challenges that South Asian victims often face, and strives to provide culture-specific programs to assist survivors on their path towards healing and well-being.

OUR MISSION

From Victim To Survivor

CHETNA recognizes the unique challenges that South Asian victims of domestic violence face, and provides culture-specific services to empower and support the journey from victim to survivor. CHETNA aims to prevent violence through advocacy, education, and outreach.

OUR VISION

Safer Homes & Communities

Preventing domestic violence and helping create safer homes across the South Asian and local community of Dallas-Fort Worth.

OUR CORE VALUES

♥ COMPASSION
🕊️ HARMONY & HEALING
🎓 EDUCATION & EMPOWERMENT TRUST
🌱 NURTURING
📢 AWARENESS & ADVOCACY

Expanded Programs & History Timeline

From a grass-roots volunteer initiative in 2005 to a leading welfare organization in Dallas-Fort Worth.

2005

Foundation & Inception

CHETNA was incorporated in 2005 by volunteers offering confidential helpline support, translation, meals, clothing, and court accompaniment.

2011 – 2013

First Office & Full-Time Staff

Secured dedicated office space in 2011 for safe helpline calls and client meetings, followed by hiring the first full-time employee in 2013.

2012

Microfinance Program

Started interest-free microloans for survivors to obtain education, certifications, job skills, vehicle purchases, or cover legal fees.

2014

Transitional Housing Program

Rolled out Flexible Housing Assistance providing rental, setup costs, and utility support for up to 6 months beyond shelter limits.

2015

Core Case Management

Hired second employee and established Case Management as the core service, helping clients establish safety, needs, and goals.

2016 – Present

Contracted Therapy Program

Developed culture and language-specific counseling program alongside community trainings, booths, events, and seminars across DFW.

Domestic Violence in South Asian Community

CHETNA aims to provide long-term holistic services and works in conjunction with existing resources and mainstream agencies to bridge the gap for our clients.

> 40%

Research indicates South Asian victims face higher risks. A Boston study showed that over 40% of 160 South Asian women surveyed were victims of intimate partner violence (Raj A, Silverman J. 2002).

Unique Barriers South Asian Victims Face:

✔
Language & Communication Barriers
✔
Immigration & Visa Dependency Issues
✔
Lack of Local Family Support & Isolation
✔
Multiple Batterers & In-Law Pressures
✔
Cultural Stigma & Fear of Ostracization

Confidential Crisis Support

Safe, anonymous, and free support in Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Tamil, and English.

📞 Call 1-888-9CHETNA

♥ GET INVOLVED

Empower South Asian Families

Support our mission through donations, volunteering, or community partnership.

♥ Donate Or Partner