Designers create beautiful living spaces for domestic violence survivors

For survivors of domestic violence, just keeping themselves and their children safe is the first priority. The next step is often building a future.

A nonprofit has sprouted up to help with that work, but the assistance comes from an industry you might not expect. Room to Rebloom is made up mostly of interior designers.

"We really believe in the power of one's environment and its ability to impact change and inspire growth," said Liz Levin of Liz Levin Interiors.

House of Ruth provides apartment living for survivors who need a little extra time to get on their feet.

"The last place we had to leave, we kinda walked out with the clothes on our backs and we went into a women's shelter," said one survivor.

The women talk with interior designers to share their likes and needs. Companies like IKEA and Sherwin-Williams pitch in to help give the women a place to call their own.

"The cool thing was one of the women she said to me, 'When I walked into this room I realized change was possible for me.' As a designer, that's a very humbling experience," said Kia Weatherspoon of Determined by Design.

"I think that is what affected me the most was using the talents and gifts that have been given to me to bless someone else and in return it blesses me," said Rebecca Penno of Penno Interiors.

This summer, Room to Rebloom is refreshing a dozen apartments in one Southeast D.C. building. They hope the program will grow with the right donations and sponsors.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: http://www.roomtorebloom.org/