Who We Are
WDC is an alternative to traditional law enforcement and security officers. Our staff is trained to quickly identify, assess, and respond to the population we serve using a trauma informed lens. We work to build relationships and rapport, which allows us to de-escalate and minimize the need for a 911 response.
WDC is currently contracted by and with several entities; the City of Seattle (HSD) for what is known as the TAP project. The Third Avenue Project (TAP) is in its second year of service. PDA (Purpose Dignity Action), LEAD (Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion), and Co-LEAD (a shelter first program birthed from the model LEAD).
What We Do
Our team ensures safe and positive interactions between individuals and provides de-escalation services as needed to prevent incidents. Our approach is client centered, trauma informed, relational, empathetic and authentic.
Some of the services we provide are:
- Non-Violent de-escalation & incident stabilization
- Reverse opioid overdoses by administering Naloxone & CPR
- Provide electronic documentation of all interactions & incidents
- Redirect individuals to reduce loitering
- Refer unsheltered individuals to agencies that provide behavioral health, shelter, case management, housing & lawful employment
- Provide businesses with a non-emergency response to public safety concerns
How We Do It
WDC strategically hires and trains individuals from the marginalized, economically disproportionate and minority communities we serve. Our staff have lived experience and cultural similarities. This allows them to be liaisons with the programmatic details of those we partner with, creating a true village.
WDC staff members are trained and certified in nonviolent de-escalation, prevention, mental health first aid, naloxone administration and CPR. Our staff are trained not to put hands on individuals except in lawful self defense. They are not a police or security force. WDC is a trained team of individual who use relationships, verbal de-escalation, peer engagement, social network connection, and community organizing skills to reduce concerning dynamics and illicit activity.
WDC may make immediate response requests to any number of partners with varying specializations (including but not limited to the Seattle Police Department, LEAD, the Mobile Crisis Team, Seattle’s Health One & Unified Care Teams, Seattle Conservation Corps & the King County Regional Homelessness Authority) for situations where felt impact requires other models of care and/or where WDC is not the most appropriate responder.
Values We Live By:
We Deliver Care 