An Innovative Program For Domestic Violence Victims: A University – Community Collaboration

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine an innovative program for domestic violence (The Domestic Violence and Self-Sufficiency [DV & SS] Program at the University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio). More specifically, the study evaluates the importance and appropriateness of the services this program offers enrolled and prospective student-parent welfare recipients at the university. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted on the data collected by graduate student interns in social work. The study found that program services were appropriate and valued by a community partner who doubled the funding for staffing and added $25,000 in tuition assistance money. The study also found that women students not eligible for welfare receipt needed program services, and those students using welfare had barriers interconnected with domestic violence issues. Several recommendations are made that will enable caseworkers / counselors working in universities and in the larger community improve the services they provide domestic violence victims.

Gender & Behaviour Vol.3 2005: 296-313