A Rebel Roots pilot program · In development
Foundations
of Freedom.
A place to begin again. The skills to build what comes next.
We are developing a small, intentional program for survivors of domestic violence—connecting personal empowerment, practical skills, and a supported path toward owning land and building a modest home.
The pilot program
Start with the person.
Build toward possibility.
Leaving abuse can be the beginning of a much longer journey toward stability and independence. Foundations of Freedom brings Rebel Roots’ personal empowerment and hands-on education together around that journey.
Our planned residential pilot will begin with just two survivors, so support can remain focused and personal. Each participant will begin with an individual assessment of their priorities, strengths, circumstances, and support needs. Together, we will develop an intentional plan with practical milestones—from where they are today toward owning property and building their own small, humble home.
Participants will help shape their own goals and pace. Land and home ownership are the long-term objectives of the model; progress will depend on each person’s circumstances, available resources, and the partnerships we build.
A thoughtful rollout
Build the support.
Then build the homes.
Begin with connection and capability.
We are targeting spring 2027 for the initial rollout of nonresidential services:
- Private workshops devoted exclusively to survivors of domestic violence.
- Free hypnotherapy and life coaching to support confidence, self-trust, goal setting, and follow-through.
- Practical learning opportunities that introduce useful skills for greater independence.
- Community partnerships and funding to make these services accessible and sustainable.
Timing depends on funding, staffing, and readiness. Workshop details and availability will be announced as plans are confirmed.
A small program. Deep, intentional support.
Develop a shelter and residential learning program, initially serving two survivors, with individual plans connecting stable housing, personal support, practical skills, and a realistic route toward property ownership.
Before residential services begin, we will work with qualified partners to identify and complete the training, regulatory steps, site preparation, and operating safeguards applicable to the program.
The residential program is in development. Shelter beds and residential enrollment are not currently available through this pilot.
The building model
One home helps
make the next possible.
- 01
Assess and plan together.
Begin with a focused assessment and an individualized plan connecting personal goals, practical needs, resources, and achievable milestones.
- 02
Learn by building for those who follow.
Participants will have opportunities for supported, hands-on experience building small casitas at Rebel Roots. These homes will provide places for future participants to live during their own program.
- 03
Work toward land and a modest home.
Each plan will work toward the resources, knowledge, and partnerships needed for participants to acquire their own property and build a small, humble home.
- 04
Carry the learning into the community.
Once enough on-site casitas have been built to house participants appropriately, hands-on building experience will move to properties owned by participants who have reached that stage—helping bring their own homes to life.
Building activities will be adapted to participants’ abilities and choices, with appropriate instruction, supervision, and project approvals.
Preparing responsibly
The foundation beneath the shelter.
Our development work includes training Rebel Roots staff as domestic violence advocates and arranging other relevant training. We are seeking experienced partners to help turn the shelter vision into a prepared, sustainable program.
People and practice
- Advocacy training, survivor-centered support, and clear professional boundaries.
- Confidentiality, safety planning, referral relationships, and emergency procedures.
- Participant-informed assessments, program policies, and staff and volunteer preparation.
Place and operations
- Identify applicable shelter requirements, regulatory training, and approvals with qualified advisers.
- Review land use, building, fire safety, accessibility, water, sanitation, and insurance needs.
- Develop a sustainable budget, staffing plan, funding base, and measures of progress.
An invitation to our community
Help make
independence possible.
We are looking for partners who can help with any part of this work, as well as the funding to bring it to life. You do not need to carry the whole vision. Your experience, time, materials, connections, or financial support can help build one essential piece.
Advocacy & support
Domestic violence organizations, advocate trainers, counselors, referral partners, and professionals who can help us prepare staff and build a strong support network.
Land & homes
Builders, tradespeople, natural-building teachers, architects, engineers, land and housing partners, and suppliers of tools and materials.
Planning & resources
Legal and regulatory advisers, financial educators, property-ownership specialists, grant partners, donors, and community organizations.
To discuss funding specifically for Foundations of Freedom, contact Leslie at leslie.brewer@rebelroots.site.
