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Dorothy Place
Virutal Buffet
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Dorothy Place Services

Dorothy Place provides housing and support services for women and children who are survivors of domestic violence. It is the only facility of its kind in our community.  Dorothy Place makes a difference every day by helping families create violence-free homes through affordable housing and support.

Dorothy Arnold Giesecke dedicated her life to empowering women and donated time, money and her considerable energy toward that end. She died in February 1996. This facility bears her name in loving memory.

Housing

“Living at Dorothy Place has helped me in every area of my life.  I am actually alive.  I have a safe place to be where I have a chance to heal surrounded by other women who are in the same boat.  I am no longer alone – hope and love live here.”

  • Dorothy Place is a 21-unit apartment complex.  Each family or individual has their own apartment in a community of survivors.
  • There are 6 studios, 7 one-bedroom and 8 two-bedroom apartments at Dorothy Place.
  • Residents help each other by coordinating transportation, supporting each other in recovery and sharing information about patterns of abuse and tools that have helped each of them to heal.
  • A community garden located at Dorothy Place provides residents with the opportunity to grow their own food.
  • The average stay is 9-12 months, but women can stay for up to 2 years.
  • Women pay 30% of their income for rent ­­— those without income are also eligible to live at Dorothy Place.

Children’s Program

“It has given my children a sense of stability and normalcy as well as a safe environment to learn and grow.”

“My child went from being anxious and nervous to taking a mature role in groups, helping the facilitator, and growing in self esteem.”

  • Currently there are 20 children living with their mothers at Dorothy Place.  Almost half of Dorothy Place residents are children.
  • Each week, Dorothy Place staff lead a children’s group that includes art activities, writing and peaceful communication.

Employment Related Education and Training

“Dorothy Place has allowed me to focus on my life and my goals. It has helped me be able to rethink my future.”

  • Dorothy Place residents receive one-on-one employment case management to help them prepare for and seek employment.
  • Upon leaving Dorothy Place, 93% of participants that entered Dorothy Place had reduced or eliminated at least one barrier to employment. 

Support Services

“When coming out of a situation like domestic violence and all the negative things that come with it, it is important to have a catalyst to help jumpstart you on the road to a better future.  Dorothy Place provides support, resources, and most importantly a safe, positive, stable environment.”

  • Women receive a variety of services ranging from life skills to activities for their children.  Help is available for household needs, parenting skills, substance abuse, mental health, and education.
  • Dorothy Place residents have weekly meetings with case managers to work on progress towards goals.
  • Residents attend the six-week Financial Literacy and Renter’s Education course which covers budgeting, credit repair, savings and how to be a good tenant.

We Believe

Everyone in our community should support the network that promotes our collective health and safety so that:

  • Everyone has a safe and affordable place to live.
  • Everyone has enough nutritious food to eat.
  • Everyone has access to quality health care.
  • Everyone has the education they need to succeed and thrive.
  • Everyone who wants to work has the tools, skills and opportunity to do so.