Make Referrals to Community Resources

·         There are local community agencies in Colorado that offer a variety of services for victims of domestic violence and for persons concerned about victims of domestic violence and persons who are abusive. 

·         There are also statewide agencies in Colorado that serve members who are domestic violence service providers or others working in the area of domestic violence.

·         There are national organizations and organizations in other states that serve victims and providers.

There are more than 1,800 community-based domestic violence programs in the United States, providing a range of crisis intervention, advocacy, and support services, including over 1,200 emergency batter women’s shelters. This “front line” activity is guided by the work of state domestic violence coalitions, which now exist in all fifty states. (Source FVPF3)

These community-based programs and state coalitions have been extraordinary agents of social change, creating a new multi-layered network of services for women and their children and advocating for new laws and protections that recognize the unique safety and support needs of battered women and their children. They have also helped reshape public and political discourse on the issue of domestic violence. (Source FVPF3)

There are also agencies and individuals that are certified to provide treatment services to persons who are abusive.

In Colorado, the Colorado Coalition Against Domestic Violence (1/888/778-7091) can direct employers to organizations in their communities that best fit their needs. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1/800/779-SAFE) also can direct businesses to service providers in their area.

Legal problems that victims of domestic violence may confront can be complex and involve many aspects of their lives and the lives of their children. Consultation with an attorney trained in domestic violence law will help a victimized employee assess the full range of her/his legal options. (Source TCFV) See Colorado Bar Association Web site for link to local bar associations. (Some associations offer pro-bono services for victims.)

Other ways to be proactive in dealing with domestic violence:
Consider possible legal liabilities.
Make materials and resources accessible and available.
Develop contacts with local domestic violence service providers.
Develop contacts with local law enforcement personnel.
Develop policies and procedures.
Assess security.
Conduct training.
Understand protective orders.