With self-defense, women can and do resist rape attempts successfully. Some women use physical force while some use verbal statements to deter their attackers. When properly trained, at least three out of four women will successfully deter an assault. This model of self-defense, the empowerment model, involves giving women information, skills, and support for making their own choices about how to live their lives -- allowing them to actively participate in their own safety. As part of the empowerment model, there is a strong belief in women teaching women self-defense. The value of all-women classes can be felt in the more supportive and relaxed environment which exists in such a setting. The class is a place where women can share their fears, experiences, and concerns, find out they are not alone, have their questions answered, and receive a lot of support. Workshops are provided for able-bodied women, women with disabilities, and the elderly. 39 footnotes and bibliography