Chronic stress, loss of their belongings, and grieving a family broken apart at the hands of someone who hurt them are each a part of a youth's lived experience when they enter shelter services.

In 2020, over 9,000 children were served in Ohio domestic violence shelters. It is known that people who batter within their family set the stage for their family members to enter services scanning for danger, concerned for their safety, and likely responding to the shelter environment with trauma reactions. Understanding these complexities aids advocates in meeting youth and families "where they are at." Consequently, as advocates and supervisors, we must continue to improve our skills and knowledge in working with youth survivors in programming.

ODVN is one of a handful of state coalitions that intentionally dedicates a staff centering on youth witnesses of domestic violence. Please join Sonia Ferencik, ODVN's Youth Advocacy & Trauma-Informed Services Coordinator, and take advantage of trauma-sensitive techniques and youth advocacy principles.