Empowering Communities: The Role of Active Bystanders
You're there because you have a reason. You've walked in with things in your head that are of concern to you, and so we talk about and analyze what harm in your community is, why that harm is happening, and the list of what to do as a bystander is something that's created by the group.
Imagine a community where everyone feels empowered to step in and prevent harm. That's the vision behind the Training Active Bystanders workshop, a collaborative effort by the Northampton Prevention Coalition, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, and the Unitarian Society of Florence in Northampton. In this episode, Susan Wallace, Training Director for QWAB Mediation, gives us a sneak peek into what participants can expect from this transformative two-hour session.
Susan Wallace breaks down the essence of the workshop, emphasizing the importance of understanding the types of harm present in our communities and why they occur. She explains that the workshop isn't just about handing out a list of actions to take; it's about fostering a deeper understanding and creating tailored action plans that resonate with the specific issues participants face. As Wallace puts it, 'you're there because you have a reason.
You've walked in with things in your head that are of concern to you, and so we talk about and analyze what harm in your community is, why that harm is happening, and the list of what to do as a bystander is something that's created by the group'. This collaborative approach makes the Training Active Bystanders workshop stand out.
By working together to dissect community harm, participants not only learn effective intervention strategies but also build a sense of unity and shared responsibility. It's about turning concern into action and creating a supportive network of proactive individuals. Whether you're looking to make a difference in your neighborhood or seeking ways to address broader social issues, this workshop offers valuable insights and practical tools.
Tune in to hear more from Susan Wallace and discover how you can become a powerful agent of change in your community.