PAVE started as a graduate student project in 1980, created to provide crisis assistance to survivors of domestic violence and/or sexual violence. Since then, PAVE has grown to become a full-fledged non-profit with a team of advocates and volunteers trained to assist survivors in crisis and also provide educational & supportive services for the community. In addition to these priorities, PAVE has expanded to undertake other programs focused on long-term benefits for the community, including participating in the drafting of a police protocol for use in investigating complaints of domestic violence, advocating for survivors in legislative matters on the state and national levels, and networking with other agencies and groups dealing with issues related to abuse. As a member organization of the Vermont Network Against Domestic Violence as well as the United Way of Bennington County, PAVE strives to support and be a voice for all Vermonters.