Albion Fellows Bacon Center is proud to partner with the Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence to fundamentally shift the way we address domestic violence services and prevention in our state.
After two and a half years of extensive research, ICADV has published a comprehensive report of recommendations for communities and domestic violence programs. Key needs identified through 91 individual interviews and five focus group discussions with survivors include safe and affordable housing, financial stability and assistance, neighborhood safety, and acceptance. Additionally, the need was voiced for affordable legal assistance, compassionate responses, inclusive programs, and awareness of the issue in the community.
“Advocates in the domestic violence field are committed to providing accessible, relevant and compassionate services to every survivor. Centering survivors’ voices will allow domestic violence advocates and our community partners to continue to do our best work.”
The Importance of Re-centering
Knowing that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner, we recognize the community-wide epidemic that is domestic violence. Barriers that prevent those individuals can include the tremendous weight of shame and fear that result from a lack of understanding, lack of discussion around the issue, and basic levels of acceptance.
Success and barriers become centered on the individuals seeking services when they are defined by an understanding of user experiences and needs. Through this collaboration with ICADV, we now hold an informed knowledge of expectations and desires around community safety and wellbeing, domestic violence programs, and the ways that we can improve our services.
At the close of each interview, survivors were asked if there were any additional things that they wanted advocates to know. The top five responses expressed the critical effects of compassionate and competent response, the fact that recovery takes time, the concepts of self-healing and restoration, inclusive programs necessary to serve across a range of identities and experiences, and that they are grateful for the work of advocates.
You Make a Difference
You make a difference by advocating against sexual and domestic violence and contributing to the support of those individuals impacted by sexual or domestic violence, including stalking and human trafficking.
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- Become an Umbrella Advocate today! Umbrella Advocates are loyal contributors to the fight against sexual and domestic violence. Enroll in a monthly contribution of as little as $10 a month and know that you provide safety and support via emergency shelter, legal advocacy, crisis response, and prevention efforts to area youth. Just complete the form below!
- Become a volunteer! Volunteering with Albion is rewarding and can take many forms! Join us in our emergency shelter or join individuals in safe settings (think workplaces, emergency room, or police offices) and provide crisis response.
- Attend An Evening of Hope! Purchase your tickets today and join us on Friday, August 16 to advocate against violence in our community and raise awareness.
- Enroll in our digital newsletter and receive up-to-date information!