Women's Advocate

THE WOMEN’S ADVOCATE PROGRAM

AEROPLAN VANCOUVER

The Women’s Advocate Program was developed to create a safer workplace and safer communities. It is a jointly run program between the Unifor and Aeroplan. It is a referral agency, not a counseling agency and was implemented to assist women who may be faced with a number of stressful issues directly impacting women’s work lives. Issues can include bullying, assault, depression, menopause, harassment, etc.

The goal is to provide women with support and information to community resources at a time of need. This service, although focused on women and their issues is also open to men because they have important women in their lives (spouses/partners, daughters, etc.) who may need help as well. This can also be a resource for men in relationships with abusive partners.

My role as Women’s Advocate is to LISTEN and HELP when a woman is in crisis, is facing violence or abuse, is harassed, or is in need of community resources. Studies found that women are 5 times more likely to speak to someone they know, a peer, someone who will not betray their confidences rather than a healthcare professional. I am here to be a sounding board, a shoulder to cry on, a support, a confidante. I am the GO TO person and the first point of contact. I may not have the answers, but WILL find the appropriate resources to help you and be with you along the way – if that is what you want.

I have participated in an in-depth 40 hour course on Women’s Advocacy and have yearly recurrent training sessions. I have been trained to recognize identifying signs of distress, respond appropriately to alleviate the fears and frustrations of women in crisis and determine appropriate referrals. Aeroplan thoroughly supports this initiative and role as they believe that it makes operational/economic sense, that a safe workplace is an employer’s responsibility, and that it’s a collective (Unifor/AE) responsibility.

My mandate as a Women’s Advocate is to improve the lives of women IN and OUT of the workplace. I will be available to everyone regardless of race, age, or sexual orientation. No situation will be overlooked. I will listen to you with respect, be non-judgmental, and stand with you and offer whatever support you may need.

I respect that after your meeting with me, you still have the right to choose the path you will take. It is up to you to make that decision. You may decide to take the path that leads you back to your situation, or you may choose the one that leads to other options. It is up to you.

Should you need to meet with me, I encourage you to send me an e-mail at: d104wa@gmail.com . I will set up an appointment at a time convenient to you.

The meeting and subsequent conversations will be held at work in an undisclosed area and will be held to the utmost privacy and confidentiality.

Erin Draper Contact

E-mail: d104wa@gmail.com

Nationial Day of Rememberance... — Dec 6, 2010 3:24:47 PM