An Evaluation of a Workforce Development Program for Domestic Violence Survivors

One of the largest victim service providers in New York City, Sanctuary for Families (SFF), has implemented a workforce development program called the Economic Empowerment Program that works exclusively with domestic violence survivors. This report describes a program evaluation and points to interim findings which suggest that after four months of completing the required program modules, clients not only improve their skills attainment and job readiness, but become able to address critical barriers to employment, such as safety concerns, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence in career outlook. These interim findings can inform service providers and policymakers who may otherwise shy away from launching workforce development programs that work solely with survivors.