Community Outreach and Tranings on Domestic Violence RESPOND is committed to eradicating domestic violence both locally and nationally by working towards a just society where every human being is free and safe. Right now-- one in three women is abused by an intimate partner during her lifetime, according to the American Psychological Association. To make a real impact in ending abuse, we at RESPOND believe strongly in the power of knowledge-- educating both men and women on the issue of domestic violence, illustrating how they can be a part of the solution. If you would like RESPOND to train your organization on understanding the impact of domestic violence, recognizing the signs of abuse and supporting victims and survivors of abuse, please contact RESPOND at 617-625-5996 or email us at training@respondinc.org. (More information on how RESPOND can tailor a program to meet your organization follows below.) At RESPOND, we see the impact of preventative education and the value in training people who most often serve as the first resource for many victims and survivors. Because most victims are isolated and often too afraid or even ashamed to ask for help, we offer a proactive solution that works to end abusive relationships happening in the community, affecting the workplace and continuing at home. RESPOND’s professionally trained staff can provide tailored programs to the following organizations and individuals: Businesses CEOs, HR directors, managers and even employees need to know how to support victims of abuse and what steps to take to ensure the workplace is safe. Many workplaces have no policy in place for employees who are victims of abuse. Managers need to understand how to protect the confidentiality of victims, honor restraining orders, understand fluctuations in performances, support employees who may need counseling or time off to appear in court, etc. HMOs and Hospitals Domestic violence is the number one cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44. Doctors, nurses and health care professionals need to know how to assess domestic violence, because many patients are reluctant to disclose the true cause of their injuries. (Many patients will not disclose due to fear and shame; others may deny they are victims of abuse even to themselves.) Training is particularly critical for obstetricians and gynecologists, who treat women who are often at the greatest risk of injury as physical abuse often begins or escalates during pregnancy. Since 2001, RESPOND has partnered with Tufts Health Plan to help facilitate referrals, create safety plans and present options to patients. Legal Services Police officers who respond to 911 calls, lawyers who represent victims, judges who preside in district, probate and superior courts see cases involving domestic violence on a daily basis. While many see the evidence of physical abuse, few see the devastation that verbal, emotional and sexual abuse takes on victims. Many public servants are confused as to why victims stay, usually it is due to a combination of reasons that include lack of resources, financial constraints, cultural, religious and family pressures, and simply, they hope it will get better. For many women, it takes several attempts for a woman to leave an abusive situation and to stay away for good. Because batterers often find loopholes or manipulate the legal system to further abuse their victims, victims feel even more powerless. RESPOND can explain the pattern of abuse, share the victim’s perspective, provide referrals to agencies and shelters, recommend victim and court advocates and clarify ways to support victims. Schools and Universities High school is the first time when a majority of students enter dating relationships, many without understanding the components of healthy dating practices. RESPOND has a solid track record of building awareness of emotional, verbal, sexual and physical assault among teens. Trainers help schools establish peer groups and educate teachers and guidance counselors on how to ensure students are safe. Victims often tell us, "No one ever told me that the greatest risk of injury to me was from an intimate partner." RESPOND believes schools should bridge the gap and provide a forum for these real life lessons. At colleges and universities, students are living away from home for the first time. Residential staff and roommates witness abusive dating relationships and are ill-equipped to help and protect victims. RESPOND can help residential staff identify the early signs of abuse that often escalate to violence and who can help. In addition, RESPOND can educate young adults how to set boundaries, assert choices and maintain self-esteem and independence. Community Groups Leaders, volunteers and members of civic groups, cultural organizations, non-profit organizations, community groups and faith-based organizations are in a unique position to set priorities for their constituents. While many identify victims, they struggle supporting victims on their own. RESPOND can educate community leaders on the complexities of abuse and how to refer members to additional services as well as how to promote healthy relationships. Social Workers and Counselors Because abuse can be one of many issues women are facing, social workers and counselors need to be able to identify the signs of abuse and what services and resources can best meet the needs of the women and children they serve. RESPOND can address staff’s questions on abuse and how RESPOND can work with them. RESPOND’s trainings have been praised for helping participants understand how abuse can happen to anyone no matter of economic status, race, education, religion or ethnicity. RESPOND provides strategies and solid answers; trainings are both informative and interactive. For more information, please contact training@respondinc.org. RESPOND provides an in-depth training on recognizing the signs of abuse, creating a safety plan, making proper referrals and protecting confidentiality. (Some previous programs are listed below as well.) Domestic Violence in the Workplace An Introduction to the Problem of Domestic Violence The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children Dating Violence Among Teenagers

CRISIS HOTLINE 1.617.623.5900 Available 24 Hours TTY News at RESPOND Make a credit card gift to RESPOND now through our online tax-deductible donation system. All transactions are secure and protected. What RESPOND MEANS TO ME…. "A safe place to be in a time of crisis. A temporary home away from home. A supportive group filled with women at various stages of rebuilding their lives giving hope to one another. The knowledge that RESPOND will always be there for you in the future…" -A woman in transition.