In 2012, Cornerstone conducted a series of community forums, surveys, and focus groups. We learned that while we serve over 3,000 unduplicated women, men, and children, there were families that could benefit from the progressive services we offer, that were reluctant to come to our facility due to the issues related to disclosing their circumstances, language barriers, immigrant status, or a lack of cultural understanding. Our response has been to partner with other social service agencies to bring our services out into the community and to offer as many educational opportunities for other professionals, including law enforcement, healthcare/clinics and the faith community. Day One is Cornerstone’s statewide network of emergency shelters, community programs and culturally specific organizations. To address the needs of marginalized populations, Day One launched “Opening the Door” .This multi-agency collaboration promotes a greater awareness regarding access to shelter for immigrant women, older women, and those that identify as members of the LGBTQ community. Cornerstone’s Blueprint for Safety Project, a partnership between Cornerstone, 5 law enforcement agencies, 5 city prosecutors and the County Attorney’s Office, has facilitated a more seamless response to criminal domestic assault, stalking, and sexual assault. The project provided officer training regarding victim safety by identifying high risk victims. An unanticipated outcome was a request for contracted services from the City of Brooklyn Park. We anticipate further expanding the Blueprint Project in 2013.

Cornerstone’s primary goals for 2013 are to broaden our therapeutic/clinical services. This will include outreach to HMO’s clinics, hospitals and other healthcare professional. Our 7th annual conference will focus on the long term health implications of domestic violence. We will continue to employ a research based, trauma informed advocacy, youth counseling, and therapeutic services.

Victims of Domestic Violence

Bloomington, Richfield, Edina, Eden Prairie, St. Louis Park and Brooklyn Park. We will serve anyone in immediate danger from domestic violence.