USD Magazine Spring 2006

[ D ] I S F O R DOME S T I C V I O L E N C E R E L I E F

When staffers at the nonprofit Crime Victims Fund realized many of

those in need were repeat clients, they decided to start a separate

program just for them. Thus was born the Domestic Violence

Independence Program, which aims to provide survivors and their

children with money and services that will reduce their risk of being

impacted by further violence. USD business school assistant Professor

[ E ]

I S F O R E DU C AT I ON

Steve Standifird is board president; he says the program is unique

because it provides “cash right now” to those who need it. Clients are

When students get to Monarch Schools, they’re

referred by various transitional housing programs, and funds are granted

two years behind their peers. This isn’t surpris-

for everything from therapy expenses to emergency housing to food

ing, since the kids —who range from second graders to high school

and shelter. Standifird says that volunteers and donations are always

seniors — are either homeless or at-risk. More than 25 USD students

needed; call (619) 465-4600 or go to www.crimevictimsfund.org.

currently volunteer there, providing one-on-one tutoring in every class.

“It’s a positive experience for everyone,” says head teacher Ellen de la Cruz.

With a mission to help the kids achieve their dream of a “normal,

productive life through education,”Monarch is always looking for people

to help out. Call (619) 685-8242 or go to www.monarchschools.org.

[ F ] I S F O R F E E T

Kids in Linda Vista are provided with shoes and clothing through the

practical “Shoes that Fit” program. It’s easy for those interested to take

part: the kids are identified by teachers, parents and school nurses, and

specifics about each child’s needs are posted on campus. Visit the Office

of the Center for Awareness, Service and Action (CASA) in the University

Center, Room 161 for more information about where to find names,

shoe sizes and directions on how to pitch in and give those tootsies

room to grow. For further information about how you can get involved,

contact Andi Lovano at alovano-08@sandiego.edu.

SPRING 2006 29