Some people in local counties may have noticed cards at various places with QR codes attached to them and an adorable cartoon brain or similar mascot and a logo for the Avalon Center. In the wake of recent events with scams involving QR codes showing up in people’s mailboxes or on forms claiming they have a fee to pay, it would be typical for people to assume these cards found around town may be a similar effort. But, don’t be so skeptical, as Director of Client Services Lacie Norris at the Avalon Center says these cards are legitimate.

The Avalon Center has taken on a recent effort to emphasize outreach and accessibility across its seven-county service area, which includes Cumberland, Fentress, Morgan, Roane, Rhea, Van Buren, and Bledsoe.

A key component of this effort is a strategic QR code campaign, with approximately 600 cards distributed throughout the community. These cards serve as discreet portals to help; depending on the specific card, the code directs individuals to the Avalon Center’s official website or educational resources on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Crucially, all support provided by the Avalon Center remains entirely free and confidential, ensuring that safety and professional guidance are accessible to everyone in need within the communities they serve.

Since its founding in 1984 as Battered Women, Inc., the Avalon Center has evolved from a grassroots movement into a vital community pillar dedicated to ending power-based violence. Originally established to provide the first safe haven for victims of family violence in the region, the organization rebranded in 2002 to better reflect its expansive, comprehensive service model. Today, their mission encompasses the pursuit of social justice by supporting men, women, and children affected by domestic and sexual violence. This growth has led to the development of specialized initiatives, including the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), a dedicated Transitional Housing Program, and an array of long-term advocacy services.