Childhood & Community Education

Domestic Violence Prevention and Intervention

In Compton, California, the individuals INMED serves face a broad range of risk factors—poverty, social isolation, depression, a history of abuse, chronic life stressors such as unemployment or inadequate living conditions, and post-incarceration issues—that are closely correlated with the incidence of domestic violence. In fact, more than a third of the women participating in INMED’s local programs at any given time are involved in some sort of domestic violence situation.

We therefore offer extensive education, support groups, and case management services to victims of domestic violence in Compton. Participants learn about the cycle of violence, types of domestic violence, the impact of domestic violence on children, resources in the community, and developing an emergency escape plan.

The case management services provide more intensive and structured follow-up services for participants who need one-on-one assistance in order to take the next steps in resolving their domestic violence situations. Specific issues addressed through the case management program include arranging for domestic violence counseling, securing shelter for participants ready to leave their abusive environments, detailed discussions of the client's emergency and safety plan, and helping youth victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault navigate the legal system to receive shelter, restraining orders, and protective services.

Because financial dependence is often the final tie that binds a victim to her abuser, INMED is currently developing a job training program for survivors of domestic violence, to help them gain the skills they need to achieve stability and self-sufficiency.