OVC-ARC Riverside Online Professional Training Conference 9/9-9/29 2004

WORKSHOP INFORMATION FOR CEU CREDIT


Establishing a Shelter for Victims of Domestic Violence with Disabilities.

Paul Feuerstein, MSW


Description:
Domestic Violence has been identified as the number one issue for women
with disabilities (Berkeley Planning Group), yet they have the least access
to service.  The biggest need and obstacle is access to shelter.  Paul
Feuerstein and his team have been working with victims of domestic violence
with disabilities since 1986.  Paul will discuss the need for shelter,
barriers within the present shelter system and barriers to creating
accessible shelters.  He will outline both the architectural and program
designs that he and his team have developed for their shelter that will be
under construction by the Fall of 2004.

Outline:
Barrier Free Living is beginning construction on the first totally
accessible shelter for victims with disabilities.  44 Apartments will
initially house 86 people.  Paul Feuerstein, the founder of the agency and
its CEO, will present on:

    . The process of gaining the momentum needed to make such a facility
      possible.
    . Architectural considerations for an accessible shelter
    . Program considerations for the special needs of victims with
      disabilities
    . The value of a multi-disciplinary team approach
    . The challenge of permanent housing and the need for greater advocacy
      with the Federal government in creating affordable housing.

Objectives:
The learning goal of the session is to provide individuals with advice on
establishing accessible shelters in their communities.