When Finding Our Voices brings a survivor-led discussion to the Scarborough Public Library on May 5, 6 p.m, it will be returning to where their 50-stop "Breaking the Silence of Domestic Abuse" tour began. 

Mary Lou Smith, 85, who lives in Scarborough is one of five survivors who will share their experiences in the Tuesday event. It was Mary Lou who broached the idea of a Finding Our Voices panel discussion to her hometown library in October 2024. Since then, she has joined a revolving group of sister-survivors on panel discussions in more than 50 towns and community spaces from York to Eastport. 

Topics of discussion on May 5 will include the impact of domestic abuse on children and how to help a friend or loved one you are worried is in a dangerous/abusive relationship.

Mary Lou Smith escaped decades of psychological terrorizing and physical assaults by her college professor ex when she was 65 years old. In 2025, she was named Volunteer of the Year by MaineBiz for her commitment with Finding Our Voices to helping others avoid or escape the trauma she and her children suffered. 

The 90-minute event will include refreshments and a chance for one-on-one conversation. 

Finding Our Voices is the grassroots nonprofit breaking the silence of domestic abuse across Maine, one conversation and community at a time. Its resources for women domestic abuse survivors include access to free dental care (with Dr. Goff and Dr. Sweet of Scarborough two of the 40 volunteer dental providers), a Get Out Stay Out Fund, weekly online support group and Healing Together retreats. For more information visit https://findingourvoices.net