Running head: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND TRAINING PROGRAM

Critical Analysis Report (AHS 8100) Domestic Violence Prevention and Training Program Wilbert Roberson, Jr. Wilmington University

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND TRAINING PROGRAM Domestic Violence Prevention and Training Program

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Domestic, dating and sexual violence are costly and pervasive problems in this country, causing victims, as well as witnesses and bystanders, in every community to suffer untold pain and loss. In addition to the lives taken and injuries suffered, domestic violence shatters the sense of well-being that allows people to flourish. It also can cause health problems that last a lifetime, and diminish childrens outlook in school and life. Understanding the realities of domestic violence and the conditions in which they occur is primary to a shift in culture. Equally important, is developing an environment where domestic violence is not tolerated where community members strive to eliminate behaviors and actions that lead to domestic violence. The Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCADV) Prevention and Training Program is committed to delivering world-class prevention and training opportunities to first responders within the community, the DCADV Prevention and Training Program continues to develop rigorous Planning, Programming, Execution and Budgeting methods that tie resources to critical areas and develop dynamic capabilities. Prioritizing requirements must consider a solution set that complements the first responder communities. Throughout the year, the Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCADV) Prevention and Training Program offers workshops tailored for a variety of audiences on many topics. It has become well documented that the majority of domestic violence victims will never report their crime. The reluctance is understandable as evidence shows that response systems can be, and often are extremely hostile to domestic violence victims. Without reports, it is not possible to hold perpetrators accountable, therefore understanding and addressing the factors that contribute to under-reporting will be very important in the efforts to address domestic violence. Research has suggested that most domestic violence victims are treated by first responders in

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ways that may result in secondary victimization. When victims experience secondary victimization, they are as much less likely to follow-through with a complete reporting process, thereby making it less likely that the perpetrator(s) are held accountable. People in crises require immediate help and are in desperate situations. The human services philosophy (idealistically) is consistent with established crisis-intervention theory, which places the clients needs as a priority in the value system of the helping profession (Harris, 2004, pg. 12). On Friday, March 7, 2014, I graciously met with Ms. Pamela A. Scott, Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence Prevention and Training Program Manager. Ms. Scott is a social worker with 20 years of experience, and is an advocate for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking. The DCADV Prevention and Training Program is committed to eliminating domestic violence within Delaware by promoting a culture of prevention, providing education and training, response capability, reporting options and procedures, victim support, and accountability that enhances the safety and well-being of all. The DCADV promotes sensitive care and confidential reporting for victims of domestic violence and accountability for those who commit these crimes. The DCADV Prevention and Training Program reinforce its commitment to eliminate domestic violence through awareness and prevention training, education, victim advocacy, response, reporting, and accountability. During my observation it is clear to me the DCADV Prevention and Training Program has done a great job outlining and defining the purpose and mission statement. Responsibilities and authorities are detailed to provide immediate, trained response to requests for technical assistance, referrals, and resources from advocates, victims and survivors, similar organizations, and other state coalitions. The staff also attends numerous committee and task force meetings and participates in conference and training opportunities in an effort to bring national and local

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expertise to its members and partners. The DCADV facilities present a professional setting including a private consultation area to facilitate personal discussions without being overheard. However, now more than ever, boys in the Delaware community need our time and energy. Our sons, grandsons, nephews, younger brothersthe boys we teach and coachrely on us to grow into healthy young men. The main strategy is to form good habits by focusing on ageappropriate and morally founded positive, wholesome activities. In this way the organizations mission is fulfilled by providing positive alternatives for youth, in contrast to the bad activities present in the environment (Harris, 2004, p. 173). Boys need guidance, especially on how to behave towards girls. They are watching how we treat women. Reasons for my assessment come with great thought. Changes I would make coming in to this already well run agency include: I would immediately seek grant funding for a full-time Mens Coordinator. The volunteers of Delaware Mens Education Network is better than any Ive seen in the community however, volunteers cannot replace the knowledge and continuity provided by a full-time Mens Coordinator. I truly believe a full-time, professionally trained and certified Victim Advocate to serve as the Mens Coordinator will provide essential support, liaison services and facilitate discussions with community groups in their mission to involve men in promoting healthy, safe relationships. Hiring a full-time Mens Coordinator will only enhance the goal of the DCADV Prevention and Training Program. Finally, the benefits of investing time in our boys lives and talking with them about violence are clear: they will know what is and is not okay in relationships with girls and women. To maintain the level of success of the overall DCADV Program depends on the effectiveness and creativity of the program director, the planning team and its interns. Human services workers is a generic term for people who hold professional and paraprofessional jobs in

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such diverse settings as group homes and halfway houses; correctional, mental retardation, and community mental health centers; family, child, and youth services agencies; and programs concerned with alcoholism, drug use, family violence, and aging (McClam, 2011, p. 178). To provide the best service possible I would require each applicant to possess a Master of Science in Administration of Human Services with superior academic achievement. Grant management and fundraising experience is a requirement. One year of experience within a human services profit or non-profit agency to include developing, preparing, and executing budget plans. Must have the ability to meet and deal with constituents using a high degree of tact and diplomacy when discussing DCADV Program concerns and needs. The interns are the backbone of the DCADV Program. Interns must be reliable and willing to make a commitment to the full 120 hour requirement. Scheduling will be on a rotating basis based on the needs of the DCADV. For certification purposes, the interns will be recruited from the neighboring colleges and universities. The Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence members, donors, funders, and other financial supporters sustain the important work to prevent and end domestic violence in Delaware. I would initiate a variety of formats to be utilized to deliver the ideal educational experience. We live in a world with e-mail, twitter, texting, and broadcast media constantly vying for the ever shrinking dollar. That makes it more important than ever for the message to speak loudly and clearly to my ongoing and new funders and donors. The communication must be powerful and memorable the first time and every time. My aim is to create long lasting and continued financial support. In closing, what would it take to end domestic violence? An important question to seek would be by asking community members if they have ever been in a situation when a loved one

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made a comment or acted towards someone in a way that made you feel uncomfortable. Most of us can probably think of more than one situation like this. If you were uncomfortable, what kept you from expressing your discomfort? Were others also uncomfortable? In situations like this, it is unfortunate that the people who are uncomfortable are often silent while those whose behavior is problematic feel comfortable speaking and acting inappropriately. So, by being aware of the negative perception that exists in all of society, we can all take steps to shift attitudes toward domestic violence by simply shifting the way in which we talk about it. We can give positive messages to our boysones about respect, honor, and responsibility.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND TRAINING PROGRAM References

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Harris, H. R., Maloney, D.C., Rother, F. M. (2004). Human Services: Contemporary Issues and Trends. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc. McClam, T., Woodside, M. (2011). An Introduction to Human Services. Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning.