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SVPE Workshops

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Our workshops are designed to foster safer, healthier, and more supportive communities by addressing the many factors connected to gender-based violence and relationships. Each session offers practical tools, open conversation, and opportunities to reflect on how we show up for ourselves and others. From exploring topics like consent, conflict management, and bystander intervention to building professional relationships and safe communities, these programs highlight the everyday actions we can take to prevent harm and promote respect. 

Curricula Content

Awareness months provide opportunities to highlight issues connected to gender-based violence, spark conversation, and connect people to resources. They remind us that prevention and support are ongoing efforts that require visibility year-round.

Safe communities are built through everyday actions of care, respect, and accountability. When we prioritize belonging, we create environments where harm is less likely to occur and people can thrive. This workshop offers tools for fostering trust, accountability, and safety across campus and community settings.

Everyone has a role in preventing harm. Bystander intervention equips us with the tools to recognize concerning behavior, step in safely, and support those impacted by violence. This workshop provides strategies to empower participants to speak up, support others, and prevent harm.

Conflict is a natural part of relationships, but how we handle it matters. Learning healthy ways to navigate disagreements helps prevent escalation and supports respectful, non-violent communication. Through guided practice, participants will build conflict resolution skills that strengthen relationships and prevent escalation.

Consent is about clear, mutual, and ongoing agreement in all interactions. Practicing consent helps build trust, respect, and safety in relationships and is essential for preventing gender-based violence. This session unpacks the meaning of clear, mutual, and ongoing consent. Participants will practice real-world scenarios and learn how consent supports respect and healthier relationships.

Healthy relationships are built on respect, communication, equity, and care. Learning how to identify positive dynamics and set boundaries helps us cultivate strong, safe, and supportive connections. The workshop offers reflection tools and discussion to help participants build stronger, healthier connections.

Professional relationships thrive on mutual respect, trust, and clear boundaries. Creating a culture of accountability in workplaces and classrooms fosters safety, collaboration, and equity. Participants will practice strategies for respectful collaboration, mentorship, and leadership.

Gender-based violence impacts individuals, communities, and institutions. Understanding its root causes and effects allows us to create meaningful strategies for prevention and healing. This workshop explains the roots, forms, and impacts of gender-based violence. Participants will walk away with language and knowledge to recognize harm and advocate for change.

Our identities shape how we experience relationships and harm. Tailored programming acknowledges those differences and creates safer, more affirming spaces for prevention and support. This workshop explores how intersecting identities impact experiences of harm and resilience. The workshop offers space for reflection, dialogue, and building community-driven solutions.

Each of us has influence through our roles, networks, and communities. Using that influence to speak out, support survivors, and challenge harmful norms drives real culture change. Participants will learn how to use personal influence, networks, and leadership roles to prevent harm and create cultural change. Participants will identify actionable ways to mobilize their communities.

Mentorship can be a powerful tool for growth when grounded in respect and healthy boundaries. Clear expectations and communication help ensure relationships remain safe and supportive. This workshop helps participants establish supportive mentoring connections while maintaining healthy boundaries. Tools and scenarios guide reflection on communication, expectations, and growth.

Knowing what resources exist and how to access them empowers individuals and communities. Resource awareness helps people connect to support early and reduces barriers to seeking help. Participants will learn about the services and supports available on and off campus. The workshop offers guided activities to help people connect with resources before, during, or after harm occurs.

Parties can be fun and safe when we look out for one another. Establishing norms around consent, substance use, and accountability reduces risks of harm. Explore practical steps for safer socializing, whether attending or hosting. The workshop equips participants with strategies for risk reduction, community care, and accountability.

Embracing sex positivity means respecting people’s choices and experiences while centering consent and care. Empowerment comes from knowledge, self-advocacy, and affirming healthy sexual expression. This session celebrates healthy, affirming approaches to sexuality and identity. Participants will gain tools to embrace empowerment while respecting themselves and others.

Substances like alcohol can increase risks around consent and violence. Understanding this connection helps us make informed choices, support one another, and reduce opportunities for harm. Participants will learn how alcohol and drugs intersect with gender-based harm. The workshop offers strategies for minimizing risks, supporting peers, and fostering safer environments.

Our values guide how we show up in relationships and communities. By aligning choices with respect, care, and equity, we strengthen prevention efforts and foster safer environments. This workshop offers participants the opportunity to reflect on how personal and community values guide choices. Participants will practice applying these values to prevent harm and strengthen healthy relationships.

Sexual Violence Prevention and Education
Office for Civil Rights Compliance and Prevention Education
120 Student Services Building
800 Washington Street
Blacksburg, VA 24061

Jenn Wiggins
Director, Sexual Violence Prevention and Education (SVPE)
jenniferw24@vt.edu