Programs and Services - YWCA West Central Michigan

YWCA Domestic Violence Services
Victims of domestic violence often face substantial barriers that inhibit their abilty to gain
independence from their abusive partner. The YWCA’s Domestic Violence Services effectively
address many of those issues, making it possible for victims to gain access to critical
services that help them acheive safety and independence.
In 2003-04, the YWCA sheltered 448 women and children at the Domestic Crisis Center.
The weak local job market, combined with the dynamic of domestic violence wherein
victims have often endured economic and social isolation for years, continues to lengthen
the average stay. In 2003-04, that increased to 20 days which is an overall increase of 33
percent since 2001. However, the additional time has been put to good use. Over 90 percent
of residents who stay at least 10 days complete a safety plan unique to their situation
before leaving the Domestic Crisis Center. Eighty-seven percent report that they are able
to maintain a safer lifestyle for six months after leaving.
In January 2004, in order to empower survivors in their vocational planning with Project
HEAL, we created our Resource Library and Center. Staff offer career assessments, guide
participants in completing or continuing their education, collect information on employment
options, and even provide introductory computer classes. Participants are also given
their own email accounts, access to the library’s informational resources and use of three
computers. To date, 71 percent of participants have utilized the Center.
Our counseling services are a vital complement to our shelter and transitional housing
programs, effectively working to overcome the psychological and behavioral elements of
domestic violence. Ninety-two percent of those participating in either victim or assailant
counseling are able to identify the dynamics of domestic violence unique to them upon
completion of counseling.
Sexual Assault Services
YWCA Sexual Assault Services provide critical interventions for victims so that they can
cope with the trauma of their experience. During 2003-04, the YWCA served 684 clients
through our Nurse Examiner Program, crisis line, and counseling and support groups.
As evidence of the YWCA’s importance to this population, 88 percent of individuals
concluding a course of crisis counseling or individual therapy reported a decrease in
symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
As part of the Kent County Sexual Assault Response Team, the YWCA Nurse Examiner
Program has gained national recognition for its progressive, collaborative efforts in addressing
the issue of sexual assault in our community. As one of eighty-eight original
applicants and one of just eight selected teams, the Kent County Response Team was
invited by the End Violence Against Women International Project to attend their October
2004 national conference entitled “Making A Difference”. We anticipate the information
gleaned from our experience there will prove extremely helpful to our community as we
work to strengthen our efforts even further.
Programs and Services