Project Challenge
The project enhances support for relationship-based violence (RBV) survivors in rural Western Kansas by improving service coordination and trauma-informed care. It addresses resource gaps, provider shortages, and training needs by strengthening collaboration, expanding training, and increasing access to legal aid and healthcare. Additionally, it explores digital resources and survivor storytelling to improve outreach, inform policy, and reduce stigma.
CIVIC-PG Track B:Advancing Health Equity in Western Kansas Rural Communities Affected by Relationship-based Violence: A Survivor-Centered Approach.
[Pilot Location(s) –Hays, Garden City, Colby, Dodge City, Great Bend, Liberal, and other western cities in rural Kansas]
NSF Award ID: 2430996
PI: Ziwei, Qi, Fort Hays State University
2024 Civic Innovation Challenge
Pilot Vision
- Enhancing Trauma-Informed Service Coordination – Streamline survivor-centered referrals and strengthen partnerships among service providers.
- Expanding Trauma-Informed Training – Train 50% more rural providers in trauma-informed care.
- Improving Resource Access – Develop a digital platform for service navigation and increase survivor outreach.
- Strengthening Workforce Retention – Launch peer mentorship and capacity-building initiatives to reduce staff turnover.
- Amplifying Survivor Voice – Implement storytelling and education programs to reduce stigma and inform policy.
- Driving Policy & Systemic Change – Use Stage 1 findings to shape local policies and sustain community partnerships.
Civic Partners:
- Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Service
- Jana’s Campaign
- Family Crisis Center, Great Bend, KS
- Crisis Center of Dodge City
- Ellis County Attorney’s Office
- Kansas Attorney General’s Office
- Kansas Statewide Homeless Coalition
Tech Partners:
- University of Kansas Medical Center Project Echo
- Facing Project
- Findhelp
Research Questions
The project seeks to answer key research questions:
- How can trauma-informed, survivor-centered service coordination be strengthened in rural communities?
- What capacity-building strategies can improve workforce retention and training for local service providers?
- How can community-driven digital and in-person resources enhance accessibility, resilience, and long-term empowerment for survivors?