Each board member should be provided with a detailed, written description of duties and responsibilities. Funds for program operation can be secured through several sources. Federal funds for shelter programs are available primarily through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, the Victims of Crime Act, and the Violence Against Women Act. Most states have some set-aside funds to assist battered women s programs. Contact your state domestic violence coalition for guidance in accessing these funds.
Many programs receive grants from private funders.
Research on local, state and national funders can be done at the nearest public library. Individual private donors can be found in most cities and can be reached through special events and other types of solicitations. A widely diversified funding strategy, utilizing many sources, is best. Heavy reliance on government sources of funds can make a program vulnerable to the whims of politics. It may help to contact the shelter nearest you to find out how they have handled these operational questions.