Originally started in 1995 to address the need for battered women's services in the city, the Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV) -- with offices on the second floor of the Beebe Estate -- has grown into one of the most active and well-known organizations in the city. The nonprofit has extended its scope beyond domestic violence to include bullying in schools and teen depression and suicide.
MAAV runs anti-bullying programs in Melrose schools and a mentoring program for middle school students, in addition to working with victims of domestic violence and providing a resource for the Melrose Police Department. Among its annual events are the Candlelight Vigil held each fall and the Melrose Running Club's annual Run for Women on Mother's Day, which benefits MAAV.