AVP offers experience-based workshops that help us to become more aware of the violence in our lives and how we can find creative, rather than destructive, ways of resolving conflicts.
We are ordinary people from all walks of life who volunteer our time and energy to help rid our communities of violence.
Our Mission
At AVP WA, our mission is to improve the lives of those in need by empowering people to transform violence into non-violence in their families and in their communities.
The fundamental belief in AVP is that there is a power for peace in everyone, available to those who are open to it. AVP builds on a spiritual base of respect and care for self and others.
Our History
The Alternatives to Violence Project began in 1975. An inmate group at Green Haven Prison (New York) was working with youth gangs and teenagers at risk.
This workshop was so successful that requests were received for more, and AVP was born.
AVP currently conducts hundreds of workshops each year in Australia.
An International Network
1600+
Workshops each year
80+
Country Projects
8000+
Facilitators Worldwide
Research-based Approach
As a non-religious organisation, we believe that everyone deserves to live in a safe and supportive environment, free from violence and abuse.
AVP bases its approach in the latest research, which is then shared as resource and education worldwide.
Who is AVP For?
A common preconception is that AVP is designed for violent people such as prisoners and angry men.
AVP is so much more than that, it can change the lives of any one of us who may need help with connecting to others, expressing themselves, or who craves to understand themselves more. In fact it can be useful in all interpersonal interactions whether in the family, at work or the supermarket checkout.
The definition of violence is not restricted to physical abuse but includes many other forms such as verbal, emotional, neglect and sometimes even silence. Violence can be such a part of the fabric of our society that we don’t always recognise it.
The Community
Many find it useful in their work such as social workers, teachers, professionals or priests.
Attend or Request a workshop today
Prisons
Since the first workshop at Green Haven Prison, AVP has continued its work transforming lives of prisoners and their friends & family.
Volunteers
Are you seeking a purposeful volunteer opportunity, whilst improving your life and community?
Become a trained workshop facilitator