[ADWAS Logo] ABUSED DEAF WOMEN’S ADVOCACY SERVICES “I moved across the country and was able to find new doctors, connect with DVR to find a job, and for the first time, I felt stable.” – An ADWAS Client OUR HISTORY ADWAS was founded in 1986 by Marilyn Smith, using the basement of her home as headquarters. At the time, it was the only agency of its kind in the United States. Now, located in the Maple Leaf area of Seattle, ADWAS remains one of the oldest DV/SA organizations centered on helping Deaf and DeafBlind survivors. We are also the first in the nation to offer supportive housing for Deaf survivors. ADVOCACY PROGRAM ADWAS’ advocates are trained to support clients that have experienced domestic violence and/or sexual assault. Services are free of charge and available to people who are Deaf/DeafBlind Our advocates: - Help develop safety plans - Inform about Deaf/DeafBlind survivors’ rights - Coordinate access to lawyers, CPS, hospitals, counselors and housing systems - Connect clients with a therapist - Provide legal advocacy COUNSELING ADWAS recognizes the impact of trauma from sexual assault and domestic violence. Our licensed therapist on staff offers the following services: - Short-term crisis counseling/therapy - On-going individual/family counseling - Support groups/group therapy - Referrals to mental health professionals outside of our network AT ADWAS, WE ARE SURVIVOR-CENTERED. SAFETY-CENTERED. HEALING-CENTERED. ACCESS-CENTERED. DEAF-CENTERED. COMMUNITY-CENTERED. SOCIAL JUSTICE-CENTERED. CHOICE-CENTERED. CULTURAL IDENTITY-CENTERED. TRAINING AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE ADWAS has dedicated staff ready to reach out to community partners to ensure that they are equipped with the skills and tools necessary to support Deaf/DeafBlind survivors. Some of the topics we cover: - Abuse in the Deaf Community - Trauma-Informed Sign Language for Interpreters - Best Communication Practices for Deaf Clients and Survivors - Deaf Accessibility in Legal Settings CHILDREN’S PROGRAM The Children’s Program centers children who are survivors or witnesses of DV/SA and provides programming and support that is trauma-informed and facilitates healthy learning at school and at home. Up to 50% of Deaf children may already be victims of sexual assault. ADWAS is here to help. SUPPORTIVE HOUSING ADWAS provides supportive housing apartments for women and their children escaping violence. ADWAS also provides workshops for clients to build the skills needed to be self-sufficient and independent. Housing amenities: - 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms that are fully furnished - Full kitchen and living room space - Spacious bathroom - Washers and dryers on-site - Neighborhood park and elementary school nearby - Structured activities for kids living in the building THE DEAF HOTLINE Started in 2003, the Deaf Hotline is a 24/7 hotline that is ASL accessible for people experiencing abuse. With the Deaf Hotline, you can consult with a culturally adept and trained advocate in ASL. Whether you're in need of safety planning, crisis intervention, emotional support or have some questions, we are here for you. National Deaf Hotline: 855-812-1001 LET’S KEEP IN TOUCH Follow us on social media! INSTAGRAM: @adwas_seattle FACEBOOK: facebook.com/ADWASservices For more information, please visit our website: www.adwas.org 88623 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115 Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9-12 PM, 1-5 PM 206-922-7088 | adwas@adwas.org