Empower Yolo

$67,785 raised by 163 donors

68% complete

$100,000 Goal

Empower Yolo is Yolo County’s sole provider of free services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Founded in 1977, we began with crisis intervention from a small apartment in Davis and have since grown to offer:

  • 24/7 Crisis Hotline

  • Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing

  • Legal Advocacy 

  • Counseling

  • Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Response Teams

  • Prevention Education and Outreach

  • 3 Family Resource Centers in Davis, Knights’ Landing, and Woodland

  • Child Educational and Therapeutic Services

  • After School Safety and Enrichment for Teens (ASSETs) 

  • Health Education and Care

  • Homeless Prevention & Rapid Re-housing Program

  • Financial Self-Sufficiency Classes + Free Tax Assistance

  • Women's Support Group

Empower Yolo provides these critical services to enable those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking escape and rebuild their lives. 

We are thrilled to announce that we have $50,000 in matching funds thanks to our generous matching donors.

Your donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $50,000 when you give starting April 18 through May 2 at bigdayofgiving.org/organization/empoweryolo.  

Mission

Empower Yolo's mission is to promote safe, healthy, and resilient communities through community outreach and educational programs about available resources to promote health, stability, and self-sufficiency for individuals and families.

Empower Yolo's purpose is to provide:

(a) Twenty-four-hour crisis intervention, emergency shelter, confidential counseling, training, legal assistance, and other services for individuals and families affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, and child abuse

(b) Resource centers for community services to improve the health, social, educational and economic outcomes of Yolo County residents

(c) Community outreach and educational programs about available resources to promote health, reproductive equity, stability, and self-sufficiency for individuals and families

Needs

Empower Yolo is raising funding to help support these important programs for the community.

Shelter: $45 provides one night shelter for a survivor and their pet.

Empower Yolo operates a confidential, pet-friendly safehouse for survivors of intimate partner violence; it is the only facility of its kind in Yolo County. While known for providing a refuge from violence, the shelter also serves as a platform for education, empowerment, and support, aiding survivors in their journey towards healing and rebuilding their lives. Upon arrival, residents receive more than just accommodations; they gain a committed partner in their journey for self-sufficiency. Our advocates collaborate with each resident to create goals, tailored to their individual circumstances and aspirations. We understand that true safety and stability aren't achieved merely by securing housing but by ensuring access to essential services and fostering community connections. Embracing a holistic, trauma-informed, and compassionate approach, we acknowledge the diverse needs of survivors of personal violence.

Human Trafficking:

Human trafficking is a pervasive issue affecting millions globally, including within the United States, California, and Yolo County. Human trafficking victims require a comprehensive range of services to address their multifaceted needs including emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and case management. Providing a safe and secure environment is paramount, ensuring victims have access to basic necessities and a supportive network. Empower Yolo’s human trafficking advocate coordinates various services, and offers specialized support tailored to the unique needs of trafficking survivors, such as trauma-informed care and culturally responsive services, which are essential for promoting healing and empowerment on the path to recovery and self-sufficiency.

Women’s Group:

The Latina Women's group, which meets in Woodland and Knights Landing, provides a vital space for support and connection among women in the community. Meeting regularly, this group offers a platform for women to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in a supportive and culturally sensitive environment. Members find solace and strength in one another, fostering a sense of empowerment and solidarity. The group addresses a wide range of topics relevant to Latina women and their families. By coming together, these women not only build meaningful connections but also cultivate resilience and confidence as they face life's challenges.

Play School Experience:

Empower Yolo acknowledges the significance and advantages of early play-based interactions for children. The "Play School Experience" offers parents, caregivers, and children the chance for meaningful engagement through play. Parents acquire strategies to enhance their bonds with their children, while children develop crucial neurological, psychological, and social skills. Parents get valuable resources needed to help the family thrive, and the positive interaction with other parents and the teacher decrease their stress and they create networks that will help them in the future. Parents also exchange parenting advice and address concerns, creating a supportive environment where they can share their milestones and experiences.

Equity Statement

Empower Yolo does not discriminate based on age, race, color, gender, religion, national origin, marital status, ancestry, citizenship, immigration status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, physical or mental disability.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Empower Yolo

Year Established

1977

Tax id (EIN)

94-3027535

Mission Category

Human Services

Operating Budget

$1,000,001-$5 million

Organization Need

Funding: Unrestricted

Demographics Served

Low-income individuals/families, General population, Women/Female-identifying

BIPOC Leadership

Board Chair

Local Counties Served

Yolo

Equity Statement

Equity Statement

Address

175 Walnut Street
Woodland, CA 95695

Service areas

Yolo County, CA, US

Phone

530-661-6336

fax

530-661-3021

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