Our A.I.M. Program - Assist, Invest, and Mentor
The vertical model we use involves 24-months of consistent and focused engagement with survivors of domestic abuse and their children. With a vertical model we have the opportunity to provide deeper solutions to obstacles faced by survivors. This model also enables us to align our assets and personnel to engage with survivors in the most effective way possible.
Using this model, we consistently deliver programs and services through our A.I.M. Program. This programmatic approach leads to the best possible outcomes for our clients and their children. Our A.I.M. Program focuses on assisting clients with their basic needs, investing in their overall well-being, and mentoring them in healthy relationships. All with the goal of educating women on how to gain economic independence and form healthy relationships, while stabilizing their families, and strengthening their faith.
1. Gaining Economic Independence - We recognize the need for women to become economically secure. It is a key to their ability to live free of cycles of abuse. To help women achieve this goal, we provide access to coaching on how to interview for a job, how to negotiate for a salary, how to present a strong resume, and how to manage their finances.
"A woman's ability to leave or avoid domestic violence is often directly related to her level of economic security." National Council of Jewish Women
2. Forming Healthy Relationships - Our second goal is achieved through mentoring. With Volunteer Yokefellows, who have receive trauma training, one-on-one relationships are formed. Through these relationships, we mentor women to consistently put into practice the skills that lead to healthy relationships and a strong faith.
"Protective factors to prevent or reduce intimate partner violence are linked to quality friendships, social support, and available support services." Centers for Disease Control
3. Stabilizing Families - With the third part of our model we aim to ensure women and their children have their basic needs met for clothing, food, shelter, and transportation. Our goal is for every woman, who chooses to leave an abusive relationship, to find the support she needs in her community, when she needs it most.
"An estimated 98% of abused women also experience 'financial abuse' in which their partner controls all the money. Between 21% and 60% of domestic violence victims lose their jobs due to issues that their abuser caused." National Coalition Against Domestic Violence
4. Strengthening Faith - The fourth part of our model focuses on reducing the traumatic effects of abuse. We focus on addressing a survivor's emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Our Christ-centered approach to engaging with clients means there is never any condemnation nor judgement. There is only acceptance of where they are and a willingness to walk alongside them, as we share the Good News that there is hope.
"Every nine seconds in the U.S. a woman is assaulted or beaten." National Coalition Against Domestic Violence