In today’s world, many men see the need to take action to prevent gender-based violence but do not feel that they have the tools to do so. The Ten Men Program is designed to empower men to create positive change in their communities. Ten Men advocates are men who want to use their time and influence to help make everyone in our region safer.
For years, the idea behind sexual violence prevention was based on a single person being responsible for protecting themselves. Unfortunately, this strategy did not ultimately prevent sexual violence. Prevention efforts have evolved to a more inclusive community-based approach. The idea behind Ten Men is to give group participants the skills and information needed to be community contributors in preventing sexual violence in our society.
Participants will gather 7 times over the course of a year, to educate themselves about sexual violence prevention, and to collaboratively bring these resources to their communities. At these gatherings, there will be evidence-based teachings centered around prevention. Participants will learn the importance of emotional literacy, secure attachment, and many other functions that directly contribute to stopping sexual violence. There will also be discussions about promoting a healthy masculinity in our communities to our peers. These skills are intersectional and will not only contribute to stopping sexual violence, but all types of violence in general. Ten Men is in the process of recruiting and will start in February 2022.
The Charlottesville region has so many men that are devoted and energized in the fight to end gender based violence. Ten Men is a place where we can come together to make lasting change in our community.
If you are interested in learning more about the program, please reach out to Jamar (jamar@saracville.org).
