DFA CSU Helps Children of Abuse Survivors Find Calm and Peace During Transitional Times
This piece was shared with us by Alternatives to Violence, the community parter working with students at DFA Colorado State University.
At Alternatives to Violence (ATV), domestic violence survivors and their children may spend up to 8 weeks in the emergency shelter before moving to permanent housing. The SafeHouse provides a secure place to stay away from any threats from their abuser, while also providing them with time and resources to reclaim their independence and start a fresh life away from the abuse. In 2022, Alternatives to Violence provided shelter for 166 adults and children.
It’s important that the space at the SafeHouse is comfortable, calming and supports each resident’s healing process. Under the guidance of Design for America, student volunteers from Colorado State University have taken on a special project that will challenge them with the task of designing with their minds and hearts. The students will be redesigning the ATV SafeHouse youth room. This is a place where teens and younger children can go to decompress and find privacy to spend with their thoughts or with a chosen activity.
“Teens and young children are uncomfortable when it comes to change – even if it’s for their safety,” said Rose Marie Massaro, Communication & Development Manager for Alternatives to Violence. “They are in an unpredictable and unfamiliar environment. We’re grateful that these students are here to enhance this room that provides respite care for our teens and children.”
Design for America is an organization that uses design thinking skills to solve problems within its community. They seek to equip emerging leaders to build careers that are fulfilled with purpose and impact. The students working with Design for America are all volunteers, choosing to donate their time and skills to this project.
“As designers we use creativity to find novel and useful solutions to improve wellbeing and provide a sense of belonging,” explained Susanne Tousignant, student and co-DFA leader “We are grateful for the opportunity to create a space that will support young survivors on an emotional level.”
The students and Alternatives to Violence will collaborate on room layout and furniture options throughout the process. SummitStone Health Partners has donated $1,000 to be used as the budget to recreate the space.
“A sense of belonging is crucial to a person’s recovery and ability to heal,” explained John McKay, Chief Culture Officer for SummitStone Health Partners. “We are excited to support this project that centers youth voice and creativity. Through collaboration and partnership, our community can accomplish anything.”
The space is scheduled to be completed by April 2024.
About Alternatives to Violence:
Alternatives to Violence (ATV) provides shelter, advocacy, education and resources for people impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Since 1982, Alternatives to Violence has offered victims the opportunity to heal both emotionally and physically in a supportive environment. ATV provides their services for free to over 1,600 people in Loveland and Southern Larimer County each year.
