Violence Awareness and Action Training

Violence Awareness and Action Training (VAAT) was developed by the Violence Prevention Initiative in consultation with representatives of both government and community. Established in 2001, the model has been subject to two external reviews to ensure quality in both the message and the medium.

VAAT was constructed for the purpose of mutual learning in an interagency environment. Here, both governmental and non-governmental representatives examine their own biases, and discover the translation of policy to practice through the anecdotes of front line workers. VAAT facilitates a feedback mechanism crucial for successful implementation of social programming. VAAT promotes the ‘learn-by-doing’ approach, an approach recognized as the ideal method of engaging adults in learning. To date, over 1200 residents throughout Newfoundland and Labrador have received the training.

VAAT also promotes the ‘learn-through-teaching’ approach, training past participants in facilitating VAAT sessions. The train-the-trainer model, as it’s referred, empowers individuals to take a lead in facilitating the process of attitudinal change. That numerous participants have taken the next step to incorporate this crucial work into their regular duties demonstrates a commitment to ending violence in our homes and communities.

For VAAT to succeed, it requires a similar commitment on the part of each and every partner department of the Violence Prevention Initiative. VAAT must be recognized for the critical program it is, and this recognition must trickle down to each and every one of us.

Download the Violence Awareness and Action Training brochure by clicking here.

For more information on the training, email Dana at rccav@nf.aibn.com

Send mail to cavae@coalitionagainstviolence.ca with questions or comments about this web site.