WADT (Women Are Dreamers Too, Inc.) was established in 1998 as a volunteer job placement service aimed at aiding homeless women who were residing in downtown Atlanta shelters. It swiftly became evident that a substantial portion of these women were survivors of domestic abuse. This realization highlighted that their challenges in seeking and sustaining stable employment were more intricate when compared to other homeless individuals.
Responding to the intricate needs of domestic abuse survivors, WADT discerned the urgency for a comprehensive strategy that encompassed intensive counseling, brief shelter options, intervention in child nutrition, education in literacy, and amplified job placement services.
Over the past two decades, WADT has evolved into a pivotal link within Georgia's social service continuum. The organization has showcased leadership and advocacy in confronting the issue of domestic violence within the community. A multitude of WADT volunteers and board members actively participate in the South East Domestic Violence Council. Furthermore, the organization plays a substantial role in statewide coalitions to render the system more responsive to the economic well-being of domestic violence victims and their children, cultivating their self-sufficiency.
WADT's mission is to empower a diverse community to break free from the shackles of domestic violence. Our spectrum of services encompasses a 24-hour toll-free crisis line, an emergency shelter, counseling, information and referrals, support groups, safety planning, legal assistance, and community education presentations. At WADT we extend offerings such as technical training for business endeavors, programs fostering computer literacy, GED programs, as well as after-school math and science tutoring for children. Additionally, WADT extends provisions for emergencies during holidays, including necessities, food, and toys for children. We establish linkages with other non-profit entities dedicated to serving victims of domestic violence and their children.
The organization upholds a commitment to confidentiality in our services, offering our services either for free or at a nominal cost. These services are made available in both Spanish and English, encompassing the La Familia program, which was introduced in 2003 to specifically cater to the Latino community.
The SOUTH EAST La FAMILIA PROGRAM centers its focus on the identification and rebuilding of families impacted by domestic violence, primarily within the South East Region, and with particular attention to the Latino community. The program introduces both prevention and intervention services for the entire family. This initiative features a bilingual and bicultural team that works conscientiously to address cultural practices and beliefs that contribute to the perpetuation of domestic abuse.
WADT takes a distinctive approach in addressing domestic violence crises, extending a solution that transcends mere emergency services. The organization collaborates extensively with numerous non-profit entities that deal with domestic violence and housing services. This collaboration results in the provision of long-term economic solutions aligned with programs that support survivors and their children in making profound and lasting life changes. WADT's economic solutions encompass a broad range of services, meticulously tailored to cater to the distinct needs of every victim, woman, and child, ultimately facilitating their transition into survivors who break the cycle of intergenerational abuse.
The array of services offered by WADT encompasses case management, counseling and mental health options for parents and children, childcare, tutoring, mentoring, social and cultural activities, facilitation of crisis resolution, job and legal assistance referrals, life-skills training, access to community resources, aid in securing permanent housing, technical training for business ventures, programs fostering computer literacy, provisions for Thanksgiving and Christmas, deployment of emergency food and clothing throughout the South East, Hope line cell phone distribution, assistance with school supplies, and after-school math and science tutoring for children.
The overarching objective of WADT is to realize and sustain a life free from violence, encompassing the dimensions of safety, economic autonomy, cultural considerations, children's well-being, psychological recovery, and secure housing. The organization's approach is meticulously designed to nurture positive behavior, self-esteem, marketable job skills, life skills, micro-enterprise expertise, entrepreneurial technical proficiency, and a sense of community participation. Additionally, children are equipped with self-sufficiency through after-school math and science tutoring, creating an equitable foundation for their academic achievement, irrespective of the challenges they may encounter at home.
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