PROVIDING HOPE THROUGH AUTOMOTIVE CARE

Our Theory of Change: Empowering Survivors through Automotive Support

​​

Vision Statement:
Our vision is to create a world where survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault have access to the resources and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives and regain their independence. By addressing transportation barriers, we empower survivors to access safety, legal support, healthcare, childcare, and employment opportunities, creating pathways for long-term healing and stability.

 

Mission Statement:
Our mission is to provide free automotive services including repairs, maintenance, and education to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, removing the transportation barriers that prevent them from accessing critical resources in our community and rebuilding their lives.

 

Problem Statement:

Survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault face numerous challenges, with transportation being a significant barrier to independence that is systematically overlooked, for now. Many survivors do not have reliable vehicles, making it difficult for them to access safety, legal services, medical care, and employment opportunities. As a result, they remain trapped in cycles of dependence and struggle to rebuild their lives. While there are various programs focused on immediate shelter and crisis intervention, no existing initiative provides sustained transportation support tailored to the specific and informed needs of survivors.

 

Inputs:

To bring our vision to life, we will need the following resources:

• Funding for program supplies, vehicle maintenance sponsorships, and operational costs.

• Community and organizational partnerships with shelters, legal aid, and social services to connect survivors with our program.

• Partnerships with local auto repair shops, mechanics, and car dealerships for potential service provision.

• Skilled staff and volunteers with expertise in automotive services and survivor support.

• Awareness and advocacy to raise visibility of transportation challenges faced by survivors and promote access to our services.

 

Activities:

Our approach will include the following key activities:

1. Outreach and Referral: Establish connections with shelters, legal aid organizations, and advocacy groups to identify and refer survivors in need of automotive support.

2. Automotive Services: Provide free vehicle repairs, maintenance, and educational workshops on vehicle care to ensure long-term reliability.

3. Support Networks: Build partnerships with local service providers to ensure holistic support for survivors (e.g., legal, healthcare, employment).

4. Program Monitoring: Continuously track the impact of our services, gather feedback from survivors and/or partners, and adjust our offerings to meet their needs effectively.

 

Outcomes:

• Short-Term Outcomes:

  • Immediate increased access to safe, reliable transportation for survivors.

  • Enhanced mobility, enabling survivors to attend legal, medical, and employment-related appointments.

  • Improved confidence and self-sufficiency among survivors, who no longer rely on unsafe or inadequate transportation options.

• Medium-Term Outcomes:

  • Survivors regain financial independence through stable employment and educational opportunities.

  • Increased access to legal and healthcare services, leading to better outcomes in personal safety and recovery.

  • Expanded community awareness of transportation challenges faced by survivors, fostering greater public support for holistic survivor services.

• Long-Term Outcomes:

  • Survivors experience increased social and economic stability, leading to sustained independence and resilience.

  • A larger systemic change in how support services for survivors are structured, recognizing the importance of transportation in their healing process.

  • Strengthened community networks and advocacy for equitable resources for survivors across all sectors.

 

Our Impact:

The long-term impact of our initiative will be a reduction in the cycle of dependence and victimization for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. By offering transportation support, we empower survivors to access the services and opportunities necessary for healing and rebuilding their lives. This initiative also addresses an essential need, yet underserved, ensuring that survivors are not held back by logistical barriers as they move forward on their journey to independence. Through these interconnected efforts, we will create a lasting, positive change in the lives of survivors, contributing to a more equitable society where ultimately all individuals have the tools they need to thrive.