A widespread but unrecognized need exists for additional passionate and trained service providers to work among the homeless of our community. This is our first training module in a series of training modules under development by Rising River Media, the My Road Leads Home project, and local homeless service providers & agencies to train additional service workers. These modules are designed to be as practical and realistic as possible. The goal is to help staff, volunteers, peer counselors, and community activists to better serve those experiencing homelessness.
De-escalation is all about how to keep everyone safe when there are emotional, and potentially violent, situations that break out in a congregate situation like a homeless shelter. The techniques and principles discussed here can also be used in other situations, such as by outreach workers doing outreach in homeless camps or under bridges.
This module was filmed at Truth Ministries of Spokane, a shelter serving homeless men. The context was a weekly staff meeting during which Marty McKinney and his staff reviewed an incident that occurred in the shelter and was captured by in-house security video. Prepare to take notes!