Providing links between domestic violence survivors and critical resources, our advocates—all of whom are Asian Americans who are fluent in English and Asian languages—are cultural brokers for clients. They serve as interpreters and translators, and help clients navigate unfamiliar customs and systems. Each client works with an advocate who helps with accessing services, enabling clients to have a permanent home, education, healthcare, employment, public benefits, a secure immigration status, and safety. When clients are living in a violent situation, advocates ensure that they have a safety plan; have someone to contact when they need help; and have the ability to call 911 and confidently access resources on their own.

Our advocacy philosophy is to educate clients about their rights and available resources and to empower them to use this information to make positive decisions for themselves and their children. Our services are based on a holistic approach, which addresses the range of clients’ needs. Because we provide culturally and linguistically appropriate care, we build trust with clients and create an atmosphere of safety, respect, and understanding. This environment helps our clients heal from abuse and rebuild their lives.

Legal Advocacy Services. ATASK is launching a new initiative in 2008, Legal Advocacy Services. This initiative will provide clients with more coordinated legal services and easier access to care by contracting with attorneys who will be available to advocates and clients 20 hours per month. Contracted attorneys will provide referrals and legal advice on issues of custody, restraining orders, divorce, housing, immigration, and child support. Attorneys will collaborate with court systems, advocates, and pro bono legal organizations to coordinate client care. Offering translation as needed, advocates will work closely with attorneys to provide clients with a service plan. Having immediate access to an attorney and better coordination of clients’ legal matters will greatly improve current services.

Wellness. ATASK staff work closely with partner agencies to provide linguistically and culturally appropriate mental health counseling and medical care to residential and nonresidential clients.

Housing Advocacy. Advocates provide housing advocacy, because many of our clients have extremely limited proficiency in English and have little experience with housing searches in the United States. Our advocates support clients in all stages of the housing search by explaining the overall process and the benefits for which they are eligible; helping with applications for subsidized housing or Section 8 certificates; obtaining the necessary documents (such as landlord references, income statements, bank statements, proof of immigration status, proof of local residency, proof of abuse, and proof of homelessness); researching available housing; making appointments; helping complete application forms; accompanying women to appointments; and assisting with landlord negotiations.

Life Skills/English for Speakers of Other Languages Program.This program is designed especially for Asian immigrant domestic violence survivors. Held at our Boston office, this program helps both our residential and nonresidential clients learn English and become self-sufficient, supporting them in leading violence-free lives. Using English lessons as a launching point, a certified teacher leads classes about basic survival skills, banking, and health-related topics. With the assistance of ATASK’s bilingual advocates, the instructor helps clients set and reach vocational and educational goals.