Theme
Sowing Seeds of Change: Cultivating Safe & Supportive Generations through Trauma-Informed Approaches

Purpose
Our annual DV Solutions Conference is dedicated to exploring effective strategies for interrupting intergenerational domestic violence through trauma-informed practices in advocacy and intervention. We meticulously curate our keynotes and sessions by integrating survey results, 2023 evaluation findings, emerging trends, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Our conference addresses essential and interconnected topics within a social justice framework, aiming to tackle interpersonal violence comprehensively. Each year, our focus extends to serving the entire family unit, encompassing children, survivors, individuals impacted by violence, and those who use violence. We prioritize amplifying the voices of those affected by violence and offer solution-focused strategies and interventions that promote healing, resilience, trust, safety, and transparency. Through these efforts, we aim to foster healthy relationships, homes, and communities.

What to Expect?
Over three days, our interdisciplinary collaboration will focus on SAMHSA's trauma-informed principles aiming to serve the entire family impacted by violence. 

Day 1: Neurobiology of Trauma + Substance Use 

Delve into the intricacies of the neurobiology of trauma, mental health, historical trauma, and intersections with substance use. Expert presenters, alongside representatives from organizations specializing in Substance Use Disorder interventions, will offer invaluable insights into specialized interventions, considerations, and practices. Explore the latest research findings and evidence-based practices that address the complex relationship between trauma, substance use, and relationship violence, empowering attendees with practical knowledge to effectively support individuals impacted by these intersecting issues.

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Susie Wiet

Day 2: Navigating High-Risk Dynamics: Exploring Strategies for Protecting and Supporting Individuals Impacted 

Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities surrounding high-risk cases in domestic violence and child protection. Through insightful keynote presentations and interactive workshops, we will delve into the multifaceted nature of risk assessment, intervention strategies, and the crucial role of support systems. Throughout the day, we will unpack the concept of 'high risk' and examine its implications for those impacted by violence. From understanding the unique challenges faced by communities to navigating the intricacies of high-conflict divorces and family court interventions, our discussions will offer valuable insights and practical tools for professionals working in the field. We will explore approaches to protection, including the development of tailored materials for child victims and witnesses as they navigate the various systems of care. Fostering dialogue and collaboration, we aim to bridge gaps in existing practices and empower individuals and communities to create safer environments for all impacted by violence.

Keynote Speaker: Kathryn Spearman, PhD candidate

Day 3 (Half Day): Impact of DV Field on Professional Wellbeing 

Please join us as we explore practical steps to bolster both personal and organizational well-being—crucial for mission-driven work and cultivating healthy relationships and communities. We will do a deep dive into how occupational identity management impacts us, our organizations, and the health of our movement. Come ready to think, reflect, and practice new skills that support sustainable careers and organizational cultures. Throughout the day, we will be:

• Identifying your core values to recognize how they can foster helpful or harmful connections and habits in your work;

• Developing sustainable boundaries paired with concrete habits grounded in your values;

• Constructing Mistake Budgets to normalize learning and create realistic expectations for yourself and others in high-stakes environments;

• Implementing these practices even when policies are challenging or harmful.

These discussions aim to recognize the challenges and complexities of anti-violence work. We hope to ignite connections, foster a stronger sense of our shared humanity, and practice skills so that we can be in solidarity to meet the demands of this field using community-oriented tools. You deserve a sustainable career, and our communities deserve healthy agencies—come ready to explore how to get there, together!

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Johnanna Ganz

CEUs?
Social work CEUs are available for 17-20 credits, providing an excellent opportunity for professional development and continuing education. There will be pre-conference sessions to obtain suicide prevention (QPR) & ethical consideration CEU credits.

• Pre-conference sessions

  • Tuesday, Sept 3rd:

  • 1:00-2:30 PM & 2:45-4:15 PM: Suicide prevention & ethical considerations

• Thursday, Sept 5th:

  • 8:00-9:00 AM: Suicide prevention

• Friday, Sept 6th:

  • 8:00-9:00 AM: Ethical considerations

Volunteer Opportunities  
If you are interested in making a meaningful contribution to the conference and community, we invite you to volunteer. As a volunteer, you will receive free entry to the full conference and access to CEUs at no cost. To express your interest in volunteering or to obtain further information, please contact Abi Durham at adurham@udvc.org.

We look forward to your presence at the Domestic Violence Solutions Conference as we work together to build trust, safety, and healthy relationships within our communities. Let’s sow those seeds of change together!

This conference will be a virtual event held on Zoom.