Resource Library

Partnering to Bridge the Gaps

No one organization offers all the services survivors with disabilities need in the after-math of violence or possesses all the expertise needed to provide those services in a way that is both trauma and disability-informed. There is little chance that funding is forthcoming to create the type of organization that could handle the full range of services. That’s why victim services and disability organizations across the country are forging collaborations, expanding their understanding of survivors’ needs and combining their resources to create a system of services that is more complete and integrated and that better meets the needs of survivors with disabilities. 
 
For October, we examined how these organizations have come together to bridge the gaps in services for survivors with disabilities and Deaf survivors. We explored how they’ve been able to work through differences in values and approaches to build lasting relationships between their organizations. And, we highlighted some of the promising practices emerging from their work together. Watch this exciting webinar, presented by Sandra Harrell of Activating Change. 

Using Plain Language to Enhance Trauma-Informed Practices

Plain language is a style of writing that is meant to be accessible to many people, especially people with intellectual disabilities. In this webinar, we discussed plain language and its importance to survivors with disabilities and survivors in crisis. Together we explored how plain language impacts trauma-informed practices and survivor outcomes. We focused on strategies for communicating using plain language, with examples and time for practice. Lastly, we explored tools to check for plain language within written documents. Watch this interactive and practical webinar presented by Aquia Pusch from Activating Change. 

 

Unpacking and Combatting the Infantilization of People with Intellectual Disabilities

Infantilization – the practice of treating adults with intellectual disabilities as children – is a widespread issue that undermines independence and dignity of people with disabilities. It is also one reason why people with disabilities experience higher rates of victimization than people without disabilities and it is at the root of why many survivors of domestic and sexual violence with intellectual disabilities report not getting the support they need from victim services programs.  

 In this interactive webinar, we explored the deep-rooted connections between societal attitudes and the treatment of adults with intellectual disabilities. We defined and examined the concept of infantilization, explored its presence at the social, organization, and personal level. Together we explored real-world examples that show how infantilization manifests and impacts individuals’ lives. Lastly, we discussed how programs and individuals can recognize and challenge these harmful tendencies and create supportive programs that respect and value adults with intellectual disabilities.

Watch this engaging session led by Sherice Smith, a professional and self-advocate with over 20 years of experience in the disability field, and Leah Green, a Senior Program Associate at Activating Change.  Together, we can challenge stereotypes, reshape practices, and ensure that adults with intellectual disabilities are seen and valued as the adults they are. 

Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth with Disabilities

LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to be disabled than non-LGBTQ+ youth, complicating and compounding the discrimination and violence they experience. The National LGBTQ Institute on Intimate Partner Violence, in collaboration with Activating Change, presented a webinar on how to best serve LGBTQ+ youth with disabilities. This webinar started with foundational information about sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression, then dived deep into the barriers LGBTQ youth with disabilities experience in receiving support and services.

Watch this insightful webinar presented by Keilani Garcia. 

Recognizing Mental Health Concerns Co-occurring With DVSA

There is a deep and tangled connection between the trauma of domestic and sexual violence and mental health disabilities. In this webinar, we untangled this connection while providing practical answers to supporting survivors with mental health concerns. We focused on the impacts of mental health disabilities alone, and then took a closer look at the impact of trauma on these disabilities. Together we discussed how to adapt trauma-informed practices to meet the needs of survivors with mental health disabilities. Watch this exciting webinar, presented by MeLisa Dennis, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience providing mental health and domestic violence services.