This paper describes the genesis and growth of Power Inside, a community-based program in Baltimore that serves women survivors of traumatic violence, the street economy, and the criminal justice system. It examines the social context and theoretical framework that define the program. The development of the organization was based on guiding principles grounded in our desire for social change as well as a dynamic exchange of information between the program and participants to design interventions. This paper also discusses Power Inside's client-centered, community-based, and institution-based interventions that are intended to foster individual empowerment and access to justice as well as contribute to social change movements. Lastly, the paper suggests future directions for Power Inside. (C) 2006 by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.
