A Community Against Domestic Violence
Community Team Builders
Training, Awareness & Prevention
Survivor Testimonial;
"Thank you so much for Saturday. You, Afua, P7 —
It took a lot OF me to show up & be there… but in being present, I regained a piece of self… & while sitting with her and acknowledging her the past couple of days hasn’t necessarily been what I “want”, it’s been what I “need”… & I’m so proud and so thankful. Thank you.
It is such a blessing to be reminded and to know that our purpose is in our strength… in that, the narrative shifts from things happening “to” us to things happening “for” us. Again, thank you.
With all of that being said, sometime — if and when you have some time, I would like to know if you’d be open to getting coffee, etc. I would like to know more about SNMM and how I can be involved in/with the organization (outside of my affiliation to......."
ANNUAL TRAINING & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Domestic violence forums, sensitivity training, and community-driven initiatives play a critical role in uniting us to address the systemic challenges of abuse. Rather than relying on temporary solutions, we must focus on comprehensive, long-term strategies—akin to applying casts to stabilize and heal injuries. Casts immobilize damaged areas, promote recovery, and prevent further harm while fostering a safe environment for healing.
Our collective efforts must acknowledge a sobering reality: victims of domestic violence return to their abusers an average of 7–12 times, signaling a significant breakdown in our support systems. Healing does not always begin the moment a victim escapes their abuser. For many, the full scope of their trauma—encompassing not only physical abuse but also mental, verbal, emotional, financial, spiritual, and sexual abuse—becomes apparent only months later. This delayed recognition underscores the need for sustained, holistic support.
By reducing the frequency of victims returning to abusive environments, we can decrease the profound isolation, shame, and intergenerational cycles of abuse, while ultimately saving lives. Through unified understanding and action, we can build a system that empowers survivors, fosters healing, and creates lasting change.
Annual Training Events
STARTING FROM WITHIN
Domestic violence and human trafficking is a complex issue, and new research, intervention strategies, and trauma-informed care approaches emerge regularly. Annual training ensures staff, volunteers and partners are equipped with the latest knowledge and evidence-based practices to support survivors effectively.
PREVENTING BURNOUT AND LACK OF EMPATHY
Working with survivors can be emotionally taxing. Training on self-care, boundary-setting, and recognizing vicarious trauma helps staff maintain their well-being, enabling them to provide consistent, compassionate support.
THE AFTER TRAINING
This impactful training, informed by the lived experiences of survivors, offers an interactive platform designed to deepen understanding of the challenges and successes in fostering survivor growth and resilience. Participants will engage in meaningful discussions and activities to explore both the barriers to effective support and the strategies that are making a difference.
The event aims to unite base personnel and community partners in a shared commitment to raising awareness about domestic violence and human trafficking. By highlighting the critical need for prevention, intervention, and support, this initiative seeks to empower attendees with knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change. Through authentic survivor perspectives, participants will gain insights into creating impactful solutions that promote healing and empowerment.
SURVIVORSHIP PANEL TRAINING
Engaging and impactful training designed to foster open dialogue, education, and advocacy around the critical issues of domestic violence and human trafficking in our community.
This interactive training session will feature courageous survivors sharing their powerful stories—from experiences of abduction and sexual assault to navigating life as the daughter of a human trafficker. Through their narratives, they will challenge stigmas, raise awareness, and highlight the hope and healing available to those affected.
TWO-YEAR SURVIVORSHIP DISCUSSION
The discussion convenes a diverse group of stakeholders, including organizations, advocates, government agencies, community members, legal professionals, elected officials, and survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking from the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region. Each participant contributes unique expertise and lived experiences, fostering a collaborative environment to address critical issues. Through active listening, we aim to deepen our understanding of the multifaceted nature of domestic violence, identify barriers victims face when seeking support, and explore key questions to drive effective solutions for combating domestic violence and human trafficking. This dialogue will help pinpoint gaps in our support systems, highlighting areas where resources, policies, and services require enhancement to better serve survivors and strengthen community responses.
SURVIVOR & SUPPORT SYSTEM HONOREES CEREMONY
In recognition of the profound courage and resilience of survivors, we take a moment to honor their extraordinary strength in overcoming adversity. We also extend our deepest gratitude to the tireless community support systems—comprising dedicated individuals, organizations, and advocates—who consistently provide compassion, essential resources, and countless hours of personal commitment. Their unwavering dedication fosters healing, empowerment, and hope, creating a foundation of support that uplifts and inspires.
Collective resilience and commitment serve as a powerful testament to the human spirit, motivating us all to strive for a more compassionate and supportive world.
SURVIVOR & SUPPORT SYSTEM GROUP
THE TWO PLATFORM SUPPORT
Our organization fosters a supportive network where survivors empower one another and engage with community partners and members. Through regular interactions, we address questions, share updates, and stay informed about local developments, strengthening community ties and promoting resilience.
ANNUAL SENSITIVITY TRAINING
This training is designed to deepen our understanding of the lived experiences and trauma of victims, enabling our system to operate more effectively and inclusively for all. By fostering collaboration within our community, strengthening support systems, and committing to ongoing education about subtle warning signs, we can collectively work toward reducing the prevalence of abuse victims we encounter daily.
Annual Community Outreach
DESSERT COMMUNITY TEAM CHALLENGE
The Annual Charity Dessert Team Challenge is a thrilling, community-driven event that brings together culinary creativity, teamwork, and a passion for giving back. Held each year, this high-energy competition unites survivors, community organizations, and enthusiastic participants in a fun-filled, fast-paced dessert-making showdown that supports a meaningful cause.
Teams are challenged with a mystery box containing all the ingredients needed to create delectable desserts across two themed rounds. Each round tests the teams’ culinary skills, creativity, and ability to work under pressure as they transform surprise ingredients into mouthwatering masterpieces. The event is not only a celebration of dessert artistry but also a powerful opportunity to honor survivors and strengthen community bonds through collaboration with local organizations.
In the room, you’ll find an inspiring mix of participants, including survivors who share their stories, community groups dedicated to making a difference, and teams ready to whip up something sweet for a good cause. This inclusive, heartwarming event combines competition, camaraderie, and philanthropy, making it a highlight of the year for all involved.
P7 BARTENDERS TEAM CHALLENGE
The Battle of the P7 Bartenders is a premier charity event that combines the artistry of mixology with a heartfelt commitment to social good. This annual team challenge brings together guests amateur bartenders to craft innovative, signature cocktails in a spirited contest to raise funds.
The Sixth Annual Red Affair Fashion Show, a heartfelt fundraiser dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. This inspiring event showcases P7, a remarkable group of community leaders, advocates, and survivors who courageously step beyond their comfort zones to drive meaningful change. Their unwavering commitment reflects real-time support, personal growth, and a deep dedication to raising awareness about these critical issues.
An evening of fashion, empowerment, and impact as we come together to uplift and honor the resilience of survivors.
PACK A BAG TEAM CHALLENGE
This event unites businesses and community members to support survivors by providing essential resources and platforms to empower them in reclaiming their voices.
This year’s Pack A Bag Challenge is thrilled to welcome Rumble Gym and Walmart Northern Virginia Region as our competing teams! The challenge is simple but exciting: which team can pack the most bags within a set timeframe? Dweck Properties’ participation would amplify the event’s impact and add to the fun. We’d love for you to join us in this meaningful, high-energy effort to make a difference!