Porchlight Family Justice Center In Jeffco: Virtual Tour

LAKEWOOD, CO — A new family justice center opened its doors Wednesday in Lakewood, and offered the public a virtual tour of the new space.

PorchLight, A Family Justice Center serves survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, crimes against children, elder and at-risk individual abuse and human trafficking in Jefferson and Gilpin counties. More than 70 partner agencies are working together, many under one roof, to provide services for victims, the center said.

Those seeking help have access to comprehensive legal, medical, law enforcement, emotional and community support services to assist in their healing, the center said.

A grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday at the center, 11100 W. 8th Avenue, Suite 200.

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The center includes a playroom, child care, a seniors' resource center and a video courtroom where survivors can participate in hearings and speak to judges. You can take a virtual tour of the new center here — the tour begins at 33:41 in the video after the opening remarks:

PorchLight began offering in-person services to victims of violence Thursday. Referrals to the center can be made by law enforcement or community agencies. — more information can be found here.

“The center is designed to be a welcoming, safe environment for victims and survivors of violence,” said Candace Cooledge, PorchLight Executive Director. “We consider those who come to us for services to be our 'guests' as part of a process to help restore their confidence and sense of self.”

The center also offers forensic interviews, forensic medical examinations, civil legal support, Bilingual service, therapy and many other services.

The Family Justice Center model is recognized as a best practice in the field of domestic violence by the U.S. Department of Justice. One of the greatest challenges faced by victims in the aftermath of crime is trying to find a new state of normal, the center said. While many services are available for victims in Colorado counties, access to those services may require travel to different offices or searching websites.