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When Melissa Jolliff wanted to escape an abusive relationship five years ago she turned to Turning Point.
“I never had to stay at the shelter, but the people there were very helpful. They guided me, provided resources and helped me get to the next chapter,” she said.
A friend’s invitation to a POUND fitness class helped Melissa take another healing step.
“It was the first thing I had done for me since ending that relationship. It was terrifying. I thought − I’m going to get a phone call from my abuser for not being where he told me to be,” she recalled. “After I did it, I felt free for the first time.”
POUND is a 45-minute workout incorporating yoga, cardio, strength training and Pilates.
“It helps with coordination, flexibility and your mental health,” she said.
Classes are open to people of all ages and abilities.
“Come as you are. There’s no judgment! You don’t need to bring any special equipment,” she shared.
Participation leads to leadership
At POUND, Melissa found a supportive community. She grew stronger physically and mentally. Over five years, the survivor lost 80 pounds.
Three years ago, Melissa became an instructor. She teaches at S&S Nutrition at 613 E. Center St.
“For so long, I was told what to do and how to do it,” Melissa said. “I’m open. I’m honest. I say, it’s OK to mess up. I mess up. The important thing is − you’re here and you’re doing something for yourself.”
The classes are her way of giving back.
“I want to share what I love with other women who may be going through tough times to help them get their confidence back,” Melissa said.
A call to support Turning Point
The survivor also felt called to raise money for Turning Point.
“I felt like: ‘Who is going to listen to me?’ When you’re in an unhealthy situation, your partner makes you think that no one listens to you,” Jolliff said. “However, it kept coming up in church that this is something I’m supposed to do.”
In 2023, Jolliff held her POUND fundraiser.
“Survivors came to me after the first event and asked if I’d make it an annual event. So I said, ‘Well, I am now!’” Jolliff said.
Local businesses, volunteers and donors joined the effort.
“The amount of support I’ve received from the Marion Community is amazing,” Melissa said.
Kylie Borland was among the volunteers.
People stay in abusive relationships because they feel 'stuck' and 'alone'
“The amount of support participants showed for both Melissa and Turning Point was incredible. You could feel the mix of raw emotions from all sides. There were smiles, laughter, sweat and tears throughout the entire event. Seeing everyone there for a common goal was so moving,” Borland said.
Melissa was surprised by the number of strangers who thanked her for sharing her story.
“Part of the reason people stay is that they feel stuck. They feel alone. When you can relate to someone who has lived it and they can see the other side of it, I think that helps,” Melissa said. I have this new life where I’m thriving and doing well. I want to help others who are currently in that situation heal because it helps me heal as well.”
Together, the fundraisers raised more than $2,000 for Turning Point. Melissa already is working on next year’s event.
In addition, Melissa teaches classes at for residents at the Turning Point shelters in Marion and Delaware.
“Empowering individuals to leave domestic violence situations and encouraging them to live new and healthy lives is at the core of our work here at Turning Point. We are so proud of Melissa’s success and grateful for the support she provides,” said Amber Scott, president and CEO of Turning Point. “POUND provides an opportunity for individuals to process through the emotional trauma left behind by domestic abuse. The repair of a person’s mental health is the first step to recovery. These therapeutic workout sessions provide the space. Leaving a domestic violence situation is no easy process, but with support and advocacy, it gets easier along the way.”
“If my story reaches one person and helps them, it’s all worth it,” Melissa said.
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