ABOUT VINEFORD

Our Story

Founded on the belief that survivors deserve justice, support, and a voice in shaping the digital landscape.

Our History

VINEFORD was founded in 2023 by Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a civil rights attorney and survivor of non-consensual intimate image abuse. After experiencing the trauma of having private images shared without consent, Dr. Mitchell sought help from law enforcement and attorneys but found little understanding or support.

Determined to create change, she launched VINEFORD as a grassroots initiative to support other survivors and advocate for systemic reform. What began as a small online resource hub has grown into a comprehensive organization serving thousands of victims and survivors across the country.

Today, VINEFORD is the nation's leading organization dedicated to combating non-consensual intimate image abuse. We provide victim support services, legal advocacy, policy reform, research, and community outreach to protect civil rights and civil liberties in the digital age.

OUR MISSION

Combat Online Abuse

VINEFORD's mission is to combat online abuses that threaten civil rights and civil liberties. We provide comprehensive support to victims and survivors, advocate for legal and policy reform, and work to ensure that technology companies and governments prioritize user safety and accountability.

OUR VISION

A Safer Digital World

We envision a world in which law, policy, and technology align to ensure the protection of civil rights and civil liberties for all. A world where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered; where perpetrators face accountability; and where platforms prioritize user safety.

Our Programs

Victim & Survivor Services

24/7 crisis support, legal referrals, platform removal assistance, and emotional support for survivors.

Legal Advocacy

Pro bono legal services, amicus briefs in landmark cases, and representation for survivors seeking justice.

Legislative Reform

Policy advocacy, model legislation development, and work with lawmakers to strengthen protections.

Research & Data

Comprehensive studies on abuse prevalence, impact, and platform accountability metrics.

Community Outreach

Education programs, speaker events, and community partnerships to raise awareness.

Tech Accountability

Engagement with platforms to improve policies, reporting mechanisms, and response times.

Leadership Team

Dr. Sarah Mitchell

Founder & Executive Director

Civil rights attorney and survivor advocate with 15+ years of experience in digital rights and online abuse prevention.

James Chen

Legal Director

Former prosecutor specializing in cybercrime and digital abuse cases. Leads our legislative reform initiatives.

Maria Rodriguez

Victim Services Director

Licensed therapist and trauma specialist dedicated to providing compassionate support to survivors.

David Thompson

Policy & Research Director

Ph.D. in Digital Policy. Conducts research on online abuse trends and platform accountability.

Our Core Values

Survivor-Centered

We center the voices and needs of survivors in all our work.

Justice-Oriented

We believe in accountability and systemic change to prevent future harm.

Intersectional

We recognize how identity and power dynamics intersect with online abuse.

Evidence-Based

We ground our work in research, data, and best practices.

Collaborative

We partner with organizations, platforms, and policymakers for systemic change.

Accessible

We ensure our services and resources are available to all, regardless of background.