Abused Deaf Women's Advocacy Services

ADWAS is a nationally recognized non-profit agency located in Seattle, Washington, with outreach and services across the United States. The organization was founded in 1986 by Marilyn J. Smith, a community visionary and Deaf advocate, and has become a national leader in empowering Deaf and DeafBlind survivors of domestic/sexual violence. Started in just a basement office, ADWAS’ facilities now incorporate A Place of Our Own, LLC (supportive housing program,) an emergency shelter and administrative and direct services offices.

ADWAS is a model for linguistically and culturally appropriate services and strives to assist organizations across the nation in replicating them. These services include advocacy, counseling, education and outreach, as well as the Family Support, children’s advocacy and housing programs. Our programs provide comprehensive services to all ages and genders in Pierce, Snohomish and King Counties of Washington State and nationally through the National Deaf Domestic Violence Hotline.