Services
How Does Avalon Make a Difference?
Avalon's philosophy of empowerment is taught through its core programs: Residential Services and Community Outreach. Avalon is also addressing the domestic violence and homelessness connection with the Partners in Empowerment program. Avalon offers these services throughout Williamsburg, James City County and York County:
24-Hour Helpline
Avalon’s first tier of safety and support. Trained crisis intervention personnel help victims establish safety plans and offer advocacy and referrals 24-hours/day, seven days a week. Because this is a 24-hour service, advocacy can be delivered when it is most critical, effectively contributing to breaking the cycle of violence. Operators not only facilitate the transition from a situation of immediate danger to one of safety; they are available to the entire community for questions and resources. An on-call, bilingual First Responder is available.
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Community Outreach Program
Counseling: Individual and group
counseling sessions offer continued support to former residents of on-site programs and provide counseling and/or advocacy to clients who do not require or desire Residential Services. Weekly individual and support group sessions are facilitated in the women's regional jail. Counseling services at the Outreach Office are available to male victims, a population often overlooked, yet still in need of support. Services are free of charge.
Legal Advocacy: Avalon informs individuals of their rights, explains protective orders, and possible court procedures. Court and hospital accompaniment is available, if desired. The Legal Advocate works with law enforcement and criminal justice professionals to provide education on crisis intervention for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Services are free of charge.
School Based Prevention: Prevention and support groups are facilitated in local high schools for special needs students. These classes address all aspects of healthy relationships including anger management, conflict resolution, building self-esteem, and setting personal boundaries. Services are free of charge.
Advocacy Workshops: Avalon offers informative seminars to community, volunteer, civic, faith-based, and youth groups. Topics include Domestic and Sexual Violence Dynamics, Avalon's Services, Healthy Relationships, Teen Dating Violence, and Community Response. Presentations can be tailored to fit any age and time constraint. Services are free of charge.
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Residential Program
Emergency Shelter: Located in a safe and confidential setting, Avalon operates a 19-bed, emergency shelter 24-hours/day. Women and children benefit from between 45 - 60 days of safe, secure respite at no cost while receiving counseling, life-skills training, and legal advocacy. Residents are also given clothing, food, toiletries, and personal items at no cost.
Transitional Housing: When available, Avalon offers the opportunity for former shelter residents and Partners In Empowerment candidates to live in one of six, two-bedroom apartments for up to 2 years. All apartments are fully furnished. Transitional housing extends the duration of on-site support and services. Applicants must qualify for HUD subsidized housing assistance, must be employed, and be able to pay a modest rent.
Children’s Services: Avalon’s Residential Coordinator helps mothers connect with resources in the community such as schools, camps, medical facilities, and academic tutors. Children’s group sessions are held bi-weekly. Birthday parties are organized on the first of every month for children staying in the shelter and transitional housing.
Life Skills: The Case Manager/Life Skills Coordinator schedules life skills courses, such as fiscal management and interview tips/techniques, based upon each individual’s needs. Competence in such areas is necessary for women to attain and maintain meaningful employment, thus leading to a level of financial security where she can meet the day-to-day needs of herself and her children. A true community partnership, Life Skills instructors are philanthropic-minded professionals who volunteer their time, talent and expertise.
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Domestic Violence and the Homeless Connection.....
Our nation’s lack of affordable housing can dramatically reduce options for women experiencing domestic violence, trapping them in abusive situations or forcing them and their children to become homeless if they leave. Women living in poverty are especially vulnerable. Despite this, domestic violence often becomes so severe that women leave their homes, even when they have no place to go. In fact, domestic violence is a major cause of homelessness in this country. Victims and survivors of domestic have trouble finding apartments because they may have poor credit, rental and employment histories as a result of their abuse. 1
According to the 2005 Greater Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance Workforce Assessment...
Average Annual Salary in the Greater Williamsburg area was $29,829
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Fields with the lowest salaries |
Service Industry: $33,015 |
Retail: $19,718 |
Hospitality: $16,997 |
To purchase a home in Greater Williamsburg, an annual salary between $49,000 and $68,000 would be needed
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Average medium home price |
City of Williamsburg: $296,000 |
James City County: $234,000 |
York County: $213,000 |
A major obstacle for the low skilled worker exists. How is Avalon is addressing this for its clients? Learn more about Partners In Empowerment by viewing a Powerpoint Presentation of how the program works.
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Susan A. Reif and Lisa J. Krisher. 2000. “Subsidized Housing and the Unique Needs of Domestic Violence Victims” Clearinghouse Review. National Center on Poverty Lawe. Chicago, Il.
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