Domestic Violence Initiative for Women with Disabilities

The Domestic Violence Initiative for Women with Disabilities (EIN: 84-1068953), commonly referred to as The Initiative, is a nonprofit organization based in Colorado that focuses on assisting individuals with disabilities who are experiencing domestic violence, neglect, sexual assault, or other forms of violent crime. Founded in 1989, the organization aims to advocate for persons with disabilities who have faced abuse and strives to create an abuse-free culture for all.

Mission and Vision

The Initiative's mission is to provide advocacy, resources, and support to survivors of domestic violence who have disabilities. The organization envisions a society where all individuals, regardless of their physical or intellectual capabilities, can live free from violence and the fear of abuse. Through direct service and community education programs, The Initiative seeks to empower those affected by domestic violence and raise awareness about their unique vulnerabilities.

Services Offered

The organization provides a range of services designed to assist individuals with disabilities, including:

• Safety Planning: Guidance and strategies to help survivors develop personal safety plans.

• Address Confidentiality Program: Assistance for individuals needing to keep their addresses confidential for safety reasons.

• Relocation Assistance: Support for survivors needing to move to a safer environment.

• Court Accompaniment: Accompanying survivors to court for legal proceedings related to their cases.

• Victim’s Compensation Support: Help in navigating the process to receive compensation for crimes committed against them.

• Referrals for Legal Support: Providing connections to legal resources and advocates.

Although The Initiative operates remotely and does not serve as an emergency shelter, it plays a crucial role in connecting survivors to necessary resources and services.

Goals and Objectives

The Initiative has outlined specific goals to enhance the safety and self-sufficiency of survivors with disabilities:

1. Advocacy and Safety Planning: To provide advocacy and safety-related services to a targeted number of primary and secondary survivors each year.

2. Community Awareness: To raise public awareness about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in abusive situations and to promote community collaborations that enhance the safety and healing of these survivors.

Organizational Impact

The Initiative focuses on educating various stakeholders, including law enforcement and community service providers, about the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities experiencing domestic violence. By conducting trainings and presentations, the organization aims to improve the overall response to these vulnerable populations and foster a supportive environment.

Conclusion

The Domestic Violence Initiative for Women with Disabilities serves as a vital resource for individuals with disabilities facing domestic violence in Colorado. Through its dedicated services and advocacy efforts, The Initiative strives to empower survivors, raise awareness, and promote a safer community for all.

[1] https://www.womenslaw.org/find-help/co/advocates-and-shelters/statewide-programs/initiative [2] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/shared/e8a884fa-54ca-45a0-a42b-002cac712d23 [3] https://www.niwrc.org/resources/webinars/domestic-violence-and-disabilities [4] https://www.bflnyc.org [5] https://www.justice.gov/ovw/grant-programs