2005-07-27 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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them in identifYing resources within their community that would be of benefit to their family. In addition, special activities and outings are planned regularly for the children and youth residing in shelter to provide free time for moms and fun for the kids in a safe and nurturing environment. Alexandra House became the first domestic violence service provider in the state to offer an on-site school for children and youth. Certified teachers with Anoka-Hennepin School District # II teach the children and youth in a classroom setting. Children and youth are able to maintain a daily routine and stay current with class work while remaining in a safe, secure environment. Our facility services program in the shelter strives to strengthen the dignity of the women and children who are forced into leaving their homes. Facility staff are responsible for maintaining the security, cleanliness and upkeep ofthe facility, its grounds and properties. Additional responsibilities include the daily provision of nutritious meals and snacks, maintaining personal and household supplies and recruiting, receiving and distributing donated items to the families using our services. IComl11unity PrOgra~ Community Program staff provide advocacy and support services to Anoka County women who are experiencing violence in their lives, but who may not necessarily need emergency shelter. The Community Program Office, located in the City of Anoka and open Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 4:30pm, is staffed by eight advocates who work in the civil and criminal court, health care, and education/school setting. Community Advocacy provided by staff and volunteers includes assistance in filing protection orders and accompaniment to subsequent hearings, crime victim advocacy immediately following a domestic assault and throughout the criminal court process, follow-up provided to patients 24-hours a day who are identified and referred by health care professionals, and general support, safety planning, information and referral services. Community Support Groups are also held each week in various locations throughout the county. In addition to direct service provided to individuals experiencing violence in their lives, Alexandra House Community Program also includes a Volunteer and Community Education component. A Volunteer and Community Education Coordinator works diligently on recruiting and training a top-notch volunteer staff that work and support virtually every area of the organization. Understanding that education is an integral part of bringing about any significant, long-term change, Alexandra House is committed to educating the public about domestic violence and to this end, provides community education presentations, offers professional training and sponsors several events throughout the year. Violence Prevention presentations are provided to children and youth from kindergarten through high school. Presentations are offered on a variety of topics, with each one tailored to specific age groups. The topics include respecting each other, healthy relationships, domestic violence, child abuse, dating violence and safety planning. In addition, teen advocacy services are provided in Anoka-Hennepin # II and Spring Lake Park # 16 school districts. These services are available to middle and high school students who have experienced violence in their homes, among peers or in dating relationships. Advocates provide individual and group support, crisis intervention, safety planning and referrals. ~!e