Dr. Buck Blodgett will share the Sentencing Statement he made at the conclusion of the trial of his daughter's murderer. He will then lead a focused open discussion examining the deeper distinctions of Forgiveness. The course leader will ask questions, invite attendees to consider and react to the questions in a free dialogue style group discussion. A central theme of the open dialogue will be that there are no wrong or right answers or opinions, all views and opinions and feelings have personal meaning and validity to their holder, and what can we learn together to empower us as individuals and in our collective communities to presence Love and Peace? Presenter: Dr. Buck Blodgett

The DAIS Court Watch program observes Dane County injunction hearings to establish a data-driven analysis of the Circuit Court system’s advancement of victim safety and perpetrator accountability. The goals of the program are to improve the experience of survivors of intimate partner violence who seek restraining orders, provide information to legal stakeholders regarding trends in the court’s handling of injunction cases, and identify recommendations for improved trauma-informed responses to Domestic Abuse and Harassment injunction cases. In this workshop, you will hear from members of the DAIS Legal Advocacy Program about how the DAIS Court Watch Program operates, the findings in the 2021-2022 DAIS Court Watch Report, and ways the court room can be more trauma informed. Presenter: Kianna Hanson and Elsa Gumm

Mindfulness meditation is a mental training practice that teaches you to let go of worries and negativity, slow down racing thought, and calm both your mind and body. Meditation can be combined with the practice of mindfulness which can be defined as a mental state that involves being fully focused on the “here and now” so you can acknowledge and accept your thoughts, feelings and sensations without judgement. Techniques can vary; mindfulness mediation involves deep breathing and awareness of body and mind. Practicing mindfulness mediation doesn’t require props or preparation- just yourself. Presenter: Tiffany Kula LMFT

A Journey to Emotional Healing provides participants with an overview of an innovative book club dedicated to helping survivors of teen dating violence and sexual violence. Participants will learn how to create a safe space where feelings are uncovered, voices are strengthened, and healing begins. Presenter: Eileen Cruz & Valencia Laws

Join us for an insightful workshop, " Understanding the Nervous System: Exploring Stress and Trauma for Resilience and
Healing," where we'll explore the intricacies of the nervous system's response to stress and trauma. This workshop
equips participants with essential tools to understand, self-regulate, and foster resilience within their nervous systems.
Whether you're a survivor seeking healing or a professional in a related field, this workshop will provide valuable insights
and techniques to enhance well-being and support others effectively.
Unlock the power of resilience by delving into the nervous system's secrets and learning to harness its potential. Join us
on this transformative journey towards a more trauma-informed future. Presenter: Sarah Giencke

This seminar will provide participants with the opportunity to learn about how confidentiality laws apply even in crisis situations, such as when a survivor has been murdered, a survivor has committed suicide, a survivor has made threats of self-harm or harm to others, a survivor has violated program policy, or a survivor has passed away after giving verbal directives for what should happen. We will discuss trends in these areas, what programs are doing today, and how to establish policies to reflect best practices. Participants will have the opportunity to review sample policies, exchange copies of their own policies, and make revisions with input from presenters and other participants to reflect what they learned. Presenters: Kari Niesen-LaScala & Nicole Johnson

This workshop will examine the root causes of anti-Trans violence, its relationship to racism and gender-based violence, and our role in ending anti-Trans violence.  Participants should enter this workshop with a basic understanding of gender, gender identity and basic LGBTQ+ terms. Presenter: Keira Kowal Jett and Reiko Ramos

This interactive workshop delves into the complex and interconnected nature of identity, culture, and abuse, shedding light on their profound influence on experiences of violence and oppression. Through engaging activities, thought-provoking discussions, and real-life examples, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the nuanced dynamics at play and explore strategies for creating inclusive and culturally responsive interventions within the domestic abuse movement. Moreover, this transformative workshop focuses on embracing wholeness by exploring the intricate relationship between identity, culture, and the healing process from domestic abuse. Through interactive exercises, group discussions, and storytelling, participants will navigate the ways in which one's sense of self, cultural background, and experiences shape their healing journey. Together, attendees will uncover strategies for fostering resilience, restoring personal agency, and cultivating a holistic approach to healing within diverse communities. Presenter: Miller

This divorce simulator aims to educate participants about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors seeking a divorce in Wisconsin. Key elements include the interplay of reporting abuse, understanding the role of restraining orders, working with a guardian ad litem, finding legal representation, experiencing court proceedings, and accessing emotional support. Participants will learn about the impact of reporting abuse in divorce proceedings, the intersection of restraining orders and divorces, communication with guardians ad litem, and the complexities of varying understandings of abuse. They will also explore legal representation options, including the reality of legal deserts and available legal aid. Simulated court scenarios offer insights into divorce processes based on survivor resources and attorney presence. Emotional support resources are also highlighted. The simulator aims to raise awareness, promote empathy and understanding, and offer support to survivors while educating users about available resources in Wisconsin. Part 1 of 2 - YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR BOTH SESSIONS! Presenter: Amanda Mayer, Megan Lee and Karlie Merkel

In this workshop, participants will learn how emotional expression and emotional wellness are the key components missing in suicide prevention, mental health and wellness programs. They will deepen their understanding on why all emotions are important to our human experience, and the many ways that we avoid being with our emotions. Participants will be introduced to The Change Triangle—a tool that helps move past our defenses and connect with the emotional body inside each of us. Presenter: Lynn McLaughlin and Karen Iverson Riggers

Abuse in later life, which refers to the intersection of domestic and sexual violence and elder abuse, is a very complex and multi-layered issue; it is highly unlikely that one service provider alone can meet all the needs of older victims. Inter-agency communication and collaboration becomes increasingly important in order to create seamless delivery of support and services older adults need to begin healing from their trauma. Communities across Wisconsin have Coordinated Community Response (CCR) Teams to look at responses to domestic and sexual violence from a systemic viewpoint. To support CCRs in addressing abuse across the lifespan, this conference session will delve into how CCRs can account for the unique experiences of older survivors: : generational differences, abuse in the context of a long-standing relationship, isolation, core values, health status considerations, accessible and equitable services to name a few. Videos will be used to bring the older survivor’s voice to the presentation. Group discussions will offer the opportunity for attendees to delve deeper into their current response to these cases. CCR Teams who have a shared understanding of the complexities of these cases can then move towards systemic change that both supports older victims’ safety and holds offenders accountable. Presenter: Martie Washington and Ann Laatsch

Most Hollywood movies imply that abuse doesn’t “count” unless it leaves a bruise – but the first signs of abuse are rarely violent. That’s why a team of survivors and abuse experts came together to create The Last Drop – a film that illustrates the less visible forms, like manipulation, isolation tactics, and technology abuse. By shedding light on the most overlooked forms of relationship abuse, The Last Drop aims to validate survivors, promote policies for holistic legal support, and teach people how to recognize the early signs. Presenter: Adam Joel and Radhika Sharma-Gordon

Shonita’s presentation will be in storytelling format, a roadmap of her story, how she arrived in her position today, and how not everyone’s roads are carefree and easy. She will share her experience of domestic violence in her former marriage. Her key points will be about the power, control and will that form the central forces behind domestic violence. She will cover how to define DV, how it shows up in relationships and marriages, and how it can continue in cycles. She will teach how to identify the point at which you need to make contact for help, and who to reach out to. Presenter: Shonita Roach

“From Blind Spots to Open Minds: Examining and addressing Bias” is a presentation that explores the concept of personal and unconscious bias and provides strategies for individuals to examine and address their biases. We will begin by defining the different types of bias and highlighting the impact it has on how individuals engage with the world. This presentation emphasizes the magnitude of self-awareness and continual learning in identifying and challenging biases effectively. We will introduce techniques for revealing and addressing unconscious biases. This presentation will conclude by highlighting the benefits of embracing diversity and actively working to overcome biases for personal growth and creating a more inclusive society. Presenter: Patrice McBeath

Through our workshop we hope to influence organizations and amplify the importance of emotional wellness and healing for advocates. The presentation will begin with a wellness check consisting of specific questions surrounding participants sense of well-being. Additionally, the workshop will include conversations, educational content, and intentional hands-on activities. Presenter: Stephanie Fierro-Padilla, Ivana Guerrero-Garcia and Morelia Blanco Rincon

The goal of Golden House’s “Domestic Violence in the Workplace” program is to educate employers about the potential impact domestic abuse can have on individual employees, coworkers, and the organization as a whole. Domestic Violence in the Workplace equips employers with resources such as policies, procedures, a manager’s guide to responding to domestic violence, fliers, and more. Presenter: Marissa Heim and Jennifer Tingle

Whether you are at the early stages of healing or have made significant progress, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to gain new insights, develop practical skills, and find inspiration to move forward on your journey from pain to purpose. Together, we will create a nurturing space where you can embrace your resilience, reclaim your power, and chart a fulfilling path towards a thriving and purposeful life. Presenter: Laverne Badger and Natalie Hayden

Join us in a transformative journey tailored for survivors, allies, and providers touched by the ripple effects of sexual violence and abuse. This expert-led workshop delves into therapeutic techniques, group discussions, and holistic practices to help participants navigate the complexities of trust, emotional healing, and the reclamation of intimacy. Whether you are a survivor seeking personal growth, an ally aiming to better understand and support, or a provider refining your tools for care, this workshop offers a compassionate and safe space to foster growth, resilience, and renewed connections. Presenter Rashi Miller, Founder of the Messy Movement

This divorce simulator aims to educate participants about the challenges faced by domestic violence survivors seeking a divorce in Wisconsin. Key elements include the interplay of reporting abuse, understanding the role of restraining orders, working with a guardian ad litem, finding legal representation, experiencing court proceedings, and accessing emotional support. Participants will learn about the impact of reporting abuse in divorce proceedings, the intersection of restraining orders and divorces, communication with guardians ad litem, and the complexities of varying understandings of abuse. They will also explore legal representation options, including the reality of legal deserts and available legal aid. Simulated court scenarios offer insights into divorce processes based on survivor resources and attorney presence. Emotional support resources are also highlighted. The simulator aims to raise awareness, promote empathy and understanding, and offer support to survivors while educating users about available resources in Wisconsin. Part 2 of 2 - YOU MUST SIGN UP FOR BOTH SESSIONS! Presenter: Amanda Mayer, Megan Lee and Karlie Merkel

Unveiling the Layers: Intersectionality in Survivor Support explores the essential aspect of working with survivors though an intersectional lens. It emphasizes the importance of understanding intersectional identities to effectively address the unique needs and experiences of survivors with multiple intersecting characteristics. The presentation covers challenges faced by survivors, trauma-informed care with an intersectional lens, culturally competent approaches, collaboration and referrals among service providers, and self-care strategies for providers. By adopting an intersectional approach, providers can enhance their understanding, empathy, and support for survivors, promoting inclusive paths to healing and empowering individuals with diverse identities. Presenter: Patrice McBeath

As the population ages and becomes more diverse, service providers must be intentional about ensuring that their services and supports are appropriate and welcoming to survivors across the lifespan. Older survivors of abuse face unique barriers in seeking and accessing services to help them heal and recover from abuse. This session will identify those barriers and explore ways providers can adapt their services to best meet the needs of this growing population in a victim-centered, trauma-informed, inclusive manner. Presenter: Victoria Ferguson Young and Ann Laatsch

Emotional CPR is a framework used to address emotional crisis within ourselves, and to assist others who may be experiencing it. It recognizes and integrates the concepts embodied in trauma-informed approaches, cultural empathy and humility, suicide prevention, and peer support concepts to provide a safe, inclusive experience for learning. Presenter: Lynn McLaughlin and Karen Iverson Riggers

Child abuse often intersects with domestic abuse. Seeking a restraining order can be a powerful tool to help protect victims of abuse. However, many times allegations of child abuse are ignored and/or child abuse restraining orders are not granted due to stereotypes that a petitioner parent (usually the mother) is trying to alienate the other party or seeking an unfair advantage in a divorce/custody proceeding. This session will do a deep dive into child abuse restraining orders to help attorneys, including guardians ad litem, who are often appointed in child abuse restraining order cases, social workers, advocates and others understand how these orders can be used to help keep children safe. Presenter: Kari Niesen-LaScala and Molly Stoffen Basarich

My name is Heather. I am a Victim Advocate, Prevention Educator, and Survivor of Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Childhood Sexual Abuse, and Sexual Harassment. In this session I will be sharing my child abuse and domestic abuse survivor stories and the barriers that I faced having a lack of resources and living in a rural community. In this discussion I will share the significant impact that Violence Intervention Project and my advocate had on me, not only in the moment – but even where I am at today. Following the presentation, I will offer an “ask me anything” where you can ask me questions that you may not have the ability to ask other survivors. Presenter: Heahter Noel

Access to safe and affordable housing continues to be a major impediment for families attempting to leave situations involving domestic violence and abuse. While organizations and shelters can provide temporary assistance, requests for help often outstrip available beds and resources, and ultimately do not provide a long-term solution. In December 2021, the Department of Children and Families provided funding to nine sites around Wisconsin to implement the Domestic Violence Housing First Pilot Program (WI-DVHFPP), which prioritizes flexible financial assistance, trauma-informed practices, mobile advocacy, and cultural-specific programming. This workshop will present the preliminary findings from the evaluation of WI-DVHFPP. It will examine the impact on individual survivors including effects on housing and financial stability, physical and mental health, family cohesion, and wider social outcomes. The presentation will also provide information about the benefits and challenges of implementing DVHF at the organizational level, and how sites may avoid these pitfalls. Finally, it will outline why conducting evaluation of programs like DVHF is important for achieving policy and funding objectives. Presenter: Mariel Barnes, Kate Walsh and Kaitlyn Sims

During this training, you will learn about the intersections of domestic violence and child welfare systems involvement for survivors and their children. We will uncover gaps in our systems and how to build solutions across professions to improve outcomes. This training will provide you with a toolkit of skills to enhance collaboration between domestic violence advocates and child welfare professionals. Presenter: Tegan Swanson & Jennifer Adler

Hear preliminary results from a research study examining domestic violence survivors’ experience in family court when negotiating custody & placement of minor child(ren) shared with an abusive partner. This study includes participants who had a child custody & placement case in Milwaukee County in 2021/2022. You will hear about the decisions the courts make in terms of custody & placements, safety considerations that are included in court orders, and how adult survivors and their children are doing now, after the court order for custody & placement has been established. Discuss the implications of what we are learning and what you have heard from survivors who have family court experience for our work and public policy. Presenter: Dr. Erin Schubert

For immigrants seeking remedies in family court, their immigration status or ability to obtain immigration relief often play a significant part in how judicial officers perceive them. Clients will be better served with a deeper understanding of the co-relation between immigration and family law and victimization. This workshop will explore how to provide services to immigrant victims by understanding all of the intersecting areas of marginalization they may experience, so that services are holistic. Presenter: Robin Dalton & Gricel Santiago-Rivera

In this workshop for survivors of domestic violence who now serve as providers, we recognize the dual role we play as healers and advocates. While we strive to dismantle systems of oppression, we must also address the personal challenges we face within those systems. This workshop emphasizes the importance of finding balance amidst these pressures. Taking the time to heal our own inner wounds is paramount to our ability to create positive change in the world. By nurturing ourselves, we enhance our capacity to heal those around us. As we adapt to new rhythms and lifestyles, it becomes essential to reset and reconnect with our inner core. Through this workshop, participants will explore the areas within themselves that require nurturing, awakening, and renewal. By acknowledging these needs, survivors-turned-providers can better equip themselves to continue their healing journey while supporting others. Remember, investing in personal healing ultimately strengthens our ability to heal the world. Presenter: Cyrena Martin and Patrice McBeath

Language Justice and Disability Justice is a critical approach for our deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing and late deafness communities. ADA was set up in 1990 and it's not 100% effective as it has a lot of gaps with many kinds of factors. ADA didn’t have any accommodations for individuals including race, gender identity, age, levels of disabilities, and religions/cultures. LJ and DJ helped to develop languages and accommodations, not just the access to languages but also understanding the cultures and accessibility needs. Language Justice and Disability Justice are not mutually exclusive - in fact, they are meant to be integrated. The focus is on the individual’s self-identity, not their perceived identity and on their self-expressed needs. Integrating Language Justice and Disability Justice requires cross-movement organizing as well as cross-disability solidarity. Collective leadership fosters a culture of interdependence in order to create collective access and collective liberation. Presenter: Greta Surprenant and Andrea Schneider

All older adults deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. Yet, abuse in later life, which focuses on the intersection of domestic and sexual violence and elder abuse, remains a pervasive issue. Older African American survivors face unique barriers to accessing culturally responsive support and justice. Services and collaborations for older African American survivors must acknowledge the distinct cultural, social, and historical factors that shape the experiences of the African American community. While Coordinated Community Response (CCR) teams recognize the importance of engaging the whole community, for various reasons, they often fall short of building effective partnership with culturally-specific organizations. Yet, engagement with culturally-specific programs is a critical way for community responses to be informed by the community itself. A newly released guide from The National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life, geared toward multidisciplinary teams such as CCRs, presents insights from stakeholders across the country about collaboration strategies. This session will cover the importance of culturally-specific programs, discuss partnership barriers, and outline practical strategies mainstream organizations and CCRs can use to advance equitable collaborations. Through improving the effectiveness of these collaborations, we can create communities where older African Americans age with the safety, dignity, and justice they deserve. Presenter: Kristin Burki, Victoria Ferguson-Young and LaTrice Buck