FAQ

Q: What is domestic violence?

A: Domestic violence is the actual or threatened physical, sexual, psychological or economic abuse of an individual by someone with whom they have or had an intimate relationship (husband, girlfriend, roommate, parent, etc). Domestic violence is a choice; it is about power and control, not love and respect. Domestic violence occurs in all socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures, age groups, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and cultures.

Q: What are some signs that a friend (family, etc) may be a vicitim of domestic violence?

A: Although no one can fully predict whether or not a relationship will turn out to be abusive, some warning signs do exist. For more information see our Red Flags resource.

Q: What are the warning signs of an abuser?

A: Although no one can fully predict wheather or not a relationship will turn out to be abusive, some warning signs do exist. For more information see our Red Flags resource.

Q: How can I help my friend (family, etc.) who is in an abusive relationship?

A: If you suspect that someone you know is in an abusive relationship, there are many things that you can do to help. Keep supporting that person, even if you feel that she does not want help. Making the decision to get help and possibly leave the relationship is a process that takes time. For more information see our What Can I Do to Help? resource.

Q: Why don't victims just leave?

A: Although many victims do leave their partners who abuse, there are many potential consequences that make the desicion to leave a difficult one to make. These factors can be emotional, physical, cultural, or financial. For more information see our Why Leaving Isn't Easy resource.

Q: How do I get a restraining order against my abuser?

A: Consult our restraining order guidelines section for information.

Q: What is "mandatory arrest" and how does it work?

A: Wisconsin has a mandatory arrest policy, which means that in most cases, the officer called to the scene will arrest the primary physical aggressor. In determining who is the primary physical aggressor, an officer should consider the intent of this section to protect victims of domestic violence, the relative degree of injury or fear inflicted on the persons involved and any history of domestic abuse between these persons, if that history can reasonably be ascertained by the officer.

The victim is not "pressing charges" against the aggressor. The state of Wisconsin is pressing charges. To find out more about this, please call the District Attourney's Office at: 920-448-4190

Q: Is there any emotional support available for my children?

A: Yes. We have full-time children's advocates who can meet and talk with your children. We also have a children's support group that meets every Tuesday from 6:00-7 (the same time as the women's support group meeting). See the Support Group Brochure for more information.

Q: I have a cat & dog. What will happen to them if I stay in the shelter?

A: We work with organizations that will board your pet for free (for a set amount of time) while you're staying at the shelter.

Q: Where is Golden House located?

A: Golden House office and shelter is located on Green Bay's east side. Our address is 1120 University Ave. It is near the corner of Webster and University Avenue, just to the east of Webster.

From Interstate 43, take the Webster exit and head south. Go to the second stop light (about a mile) and turn left onto University Avenue (University Ave. is also called Hwy 54). Golden House is the two-story brown building located less than a block away on your right.

From Green Bay or DePere, take Webster north, past Bellin and St. Vincent Hospital. Follow Webster until you reach University Ave. Take a right onto University, and Golden House will be on your right.

Q: Do you have any Spanish-speaking counselors or support groups?

A: Yes. We have a full-time advocate who is fluent in Spanish.

Q: Are shelter and other services available to men?

A: Golden House offers domestic violence services to men, as well as women and children. Men can call our 24-hour Help Line, meet one-on-one with an advocate, get assistance in filing a restraining order, and be provided with shelter. Men do not stay at the Golden House for shelter; they are housed in a hotel.

Q: I don't want anyone to know I'm staying/meeting here, especially my abuser. Is my confidentiality protected?

A: All staff and residents of the shelter are required to sign a complete confidentiality agreement before coming here, and it is strictly enforced! NO ONE IS ALLOWED to tell anyone that you are staying here (including those calling and claiming to be police, relatives, friends, etc).

Q: How is your organization funded?

A: Golden House is a nonprofit organization funded by donations, grants, and other means. Please visit our Events page to see the upcoming events.

Q: Do you offer any paid positions or unpaid internships?

A: Yes, please see our Employment page for unpaid and paid positions available in the field.