Sagesse, Calgary, Alberta

This program trains volunteer women from the community to facilitate peer support groups for women who are experiencing or are at risk of experiencing domestic violence. The peer support groups program is an 18-20 week program, broken into an initial program focused on self-esteem (Finding Our Voices) and a domestic violence specific program (Growth Circle). Topics covered in the Peer Support program include self-esteem, communication, shame, compassion, healthy relationships, cycles of violence, family of origin issues, effects of abuse, guilt, anger and denial, moving beyond abusive experiences and reclaiming our lives. The program aims to build capacity within eight rural and remote communities to support women and children experiencing domestic violence and build a safe and caring community for everyone.
Grant amount: $23,000