Programs

• Mission & Goals
• SAWERA’S History
• Programs
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• Staff Positions
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Case Advocacy for Survivors of Domestic Violence

Our Case Advocates act as a resource referral and a support system for South Asian victims of Domestic Violence in the following ways.

• a sympathetic ear
• intervention if the situation is life-threatening
• help with obtaining restraining orders and other legal documents
• assistance in creating a safety plan to stay safe
• a liaison with police
• a list of legal resources
• explanation of American law and culture to bridge the cultural gap
• help for victims to find doctors, lawyers, child care, safe homes, and jobs
• assistance with groceries or transportation
• moral support through constant contact
• translation services

Support Group for SAWERA Clients

SAWERA is the only support group to be offered in the greater Portland area for South Asian women who are the victims of domestic violence. While attending the group, their children go to an adjacent playroom and enjoy self-esteem building activities with a culturally sensitive childcare provider. Our support group helps the women learn stress management and parenting/life skills.

We understand that South Asian women will not come forward for support in a group whose cultural norms are completely distinct from their own. Their shame at publicly revealing their circumstances, hesitancy to seek help from “outsiders” and the very real fear of deportation are just some of the factors that isolate this silent minority.

Kid’s Club

Under the umbrella of SAWERA, the SAWERA Kid’s Club focuses on assisting the children of domestic violence victims. Often children are most affected by the turmoil and uncertainty of a troubled home life. The Kid’s Club encompasses various programs including Outreach/Events and childcare.

The Kid’s Club is in need of volunteers to help out in various capacities. Volunteers can get involved with mentoring a child, helping during childcare sessions, conducting presentations on DV and children to the public and helping with administrative details.

Volunteer program

Volunteers represent and assist with SAWERA in a variety of ways: client services, fundraising, office administration, interpretation, transportation and more.

Outreach Team

Our Outreach team distributes information about SAWERA’s services and attends local events to promote our cause.

Community Education

SAWERA works closely with other domestic violence agencies to promote an umbrella of services, including informational workshops for organizations, businesses, police bureaus and probation officers.