DOTHAN, Ala. — The Exchange Center for Child Abuse Prevention has been a cornerstone of support for the Dothan community since 1978. Under the leadership of Lilly Flowers, the center continues to offer hope and healing for individuals of all ages who have endured various forms of trauma, from child abuse to domestic violence.
A nonprofit organization, the Exchange Center relies on grants and donations to fund its extensive programs. These initiatives include counseling services, support groups, anger management classes, and parenting programs, all designed to help people overcome the effects of abuse. With a commitment to serving the voiceless, Flowers is a tireless advocate for survivors, providing them with the resources and care they need to reclaim their lives.
“Out of all the things that I have done throughout my life, the most meaningful and the most impactful ones are from being here at the Exchange Center,” Flowers said. Her words reflect the deep connection she has formed with the mission of the center, where she has worked for many years.
The center’s reach is wide, with more than 3,000 individuals seeking help in the past year alone. In addition to traditional services, the center also runs the Baby Whisper program, which has supported over 1,600 families. Baby Whisperers work directly with new parents and at-risk families in local hospitals, offering guidance and support during challenging times.
In-home support is another essential program provided by the Exchange Center. Parent aides visit families to assist with behavioral issues, financial literacy, and other critical needs. These efforts help ensure that individuals and families receive the personalized care they deserve, even in the comfort of their own homes.
Lilly Flowers continues the legacy of her late mentor and best friend, Pam Miles, who dedicated 14 years to the center before passing away from cancer last year. Pam Miles was recognized as a finalist in the 2020 Remarkable Women awards for her unwavering dedication to the center’s mission. For Flowers, Pam’s passing has left a lasting impact.
“She was a friend and she just gave me that opportunity to just be me—to help those who needed help, to be that advocate not only to help others see the resilience in them, but also to see it in myself,” Flowers recalled, speaking fondly of the woman who shaped much of her approach to the work.
Now, Lilly Flowers is determined to carry on Pam Miles’ work, touching lives across the Wiregrass community and helping to break the cycle of abuse. For her, the most rewarding part of her role is seeing the transformation in those she helps.
“I feel as though I have accomplished everything in the world when I see the smile of someone else, or I see them come out of that dark place that they were in,” Flowers said.
The Exchange Center is open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Fridays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. All services are free, and individuals in need of therapy, parenting classes, anger management classes, or other forms of support can walk in or schedule an appointment.
Through the dedication of Lilly Flowers and her team, the Exchange Center continues to provide a safe space for those affected by trauma, offering resources, understanding, and compassion to help individuals and families rebuild their lives.
