A micro approach to a macro problem: One agency’s approach to domestic violence

Abstract

The statistics that surround domestic violence and its impact on society are disquieting and family violence continues to rise at an alarming rate. Simply put, domestic violence is a significant public health problem in this country. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), more than ten million adults experience domestic violence annually, one in four females experience intimate partner violence (IPV) in their lifetime, and from 2016 to 2018, the number of IPV victimizations in the U.S. increased 42.7%. Although there have been numerous federal and state mandates, policies, laws, and monies designated to help mitigate domestic violence, it continues to rise and gravely impact society as a whole. This paper shares how one domestic violence agency has taken a micro approach to a macro problem in its work with survivors and their families over the course of 30+ years. It will delve into how it best serves women and children as they begin a journey of healing and a restart to their new lives, one that aims to be free of violence. It examines the approach the agency uses through a plethora of community resources and education. Finally, the authors will share the agency’s collaborative approach with community, school, and other stakeholders, best practices surrounding supportive services and housing, and conclude with reflective lessons learned over time.

Keywords:

• Domestic violence
• reflective practice
• supportive services
• trauma-informed

Acknowledgments

Authors report there was no grant funding received.

Disclosure statement

Dr. DiBella and Ms. Villasenor are currently employed at Cherokee Family Violence Center. Ms. Schmalzriedt completed a first-year internship at Cherokee Family Violence Center. All authors report that they have no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Karen S. DiBella

Karen S. DiBella, ED.D. is the Program Director at Cherokee Family Violence Center, Canton, GA. Prior to her work with domestic violence, she worked in education for 16+ years as a P-12 classroom teacher and university professor in an educator preparation program. Her research has largely focused on early literacy, educator preparation; however, more recently her focus has shifted to include familial research on ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), their impact on child development, and an examination of the need for trauma-informed best practices.

Stephanie Villasenor

Stephanie Villasenor, B.S. is the Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator at Cherokee Family Violence Center, Canton, GA. Ms. Villasenor earned her degree in Communications from Georgia Southern University. Prior to CFVC, she worked 15+ years in Fintech sales and management. Her current work focuses on community outreach, soliciting and training volunteers, who are critical to meeting agency needs, and all agency social media and communication.

Rachel Schmalzriedt

Rachel Schmalzriedt, Master of Social Work Graduate Student, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA. Her undergraduate degree was in Neuroscience from Georgia State University. She is currently completing her final clinical experience where she conducts assessments, service planning, and clinical therapy to adolescents. Her research interests include brain research, impact of ACEs, and therapeutic response to trauma.