Lantern Survivor

This project is my way of giving back to the
community that helped me feel safe again—
and creating something that could help
others feel the same

Independent Pro bono / In Progress
(User Research & Concept Phase)
+ Lantern is an early-stage UX project I
initiated in collaboration with Shelter House
where I am both a participant and a
passionate supporter of survivor-centered
design. This project aims to create a digital
toolkit (website and app) with two
connected interfaces:
+ One for Shelter House advocates and
associates, offering trauma-informed
training, collaboration tools, and agency
resources.
+ One for survivors/participants, focused
on safety, support, and accessible,
emotionally intelligent information.
I am currently focusing on the advocate-facing
interface, with early research, co-design, and content
creation happening in partnership with Shelter House
staff.
Problem //
+ Shelter House advocates and participants often
must communicate and collaborate with external
agencies—like law enforcement or child
welfare—who may not understand trauma-
informed care.
+ Overwhelmed phone lines
+ Limited availability of advocates
+ Resource navigation
+ Emotional confusion of participants during
moments of crisis
+ Emotional strain on Shelter House advocates and
burnout risk
Solution //
+ A clear, trauma-informed information
architecture
+ A Generative AI chatbot for non-emergency
technical and emotional support on both
interfaces
+ A resource directory that’s fast, private, and
simple to navigate and can be personalized to the
specific case
o Includes downloadable Forms for each
interface
+ Streamlined communication between
potential/current participants and advocates,
without needing a phone call
+ Participant account accessibility on both
interfaces with option to update from either
interface- requiring Advocate approval for certain
information updates
o Includes connecting children and/or
pets of participant for cohesive case
management
+ Quick Exit and device privacy features
+ Training Hub for Professionals (Advocate
Interface)
+ Informative Hub for Participants and public
(Participant Interface)
+ Journal option- with templates based on the type
of documentation entry it is