Tag Archive for: Education

Now Hiring Educator

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CASASC is seeking to fill the position of Educator

 

The job details are as below:

Position: Educator

Reports to: Manager, Education Program and Community Relations

Number of positions: 1

Job Type: Permanent – Full Time

Hours per week: 37.5

Hourly rate: Determined based on education and experience

Anticipated Start Date: CLOSED – POSITION FILLED

Location: Red Deer, AB & frequent daily travel to communities within Central Alberta

 

About Us:

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is a voluntary, non-profit organization serving the Central Alberta region under the direction of a community-based Board of Directors.

We specialize in healing sexual trauma so you can talk freely about the hard stuff with no judgement. We provide a range of support services for individuals who are affected by sexual violence including counselling, play therapy, police and court support, crisis support and education.

 

JOB SUMMARY

As a part of CASASC’s Education team, the Educator supports our goal to increase the personal safety of individuals through awareness, education and empowerment, which will help to prevent sexual violence.

The Educator is a liaison between CASASC, community, schools and organizations, focusing on prevention and awareness education for children, youth, and adults. Our community and school-based programs are delivered to a range of individuals mainly from Kindergarten to Grade 12, but also to parents, adults and professionals.

This position provides in-person and virtual education sessions on a variety of content and topics focusing on violence prevention and sexual violence awareness, sessions are adaptable to meet the needs of community and school.

This position is part of the Education & Community Relations team. Educators may be expected to fulfill duties related to community relationship building, including attending meetings and events, staffing booths and conducting community visits. Educators are responsible for preparation, delivery, and follow-up of all applicable education programs as determined by CASASC and the Manager, Education & Community Relations.

The Educator is expected to have full knowledge of, and to follow the Philosophy, the Guidelines for Personnel Policies & Practices, and the Policies & Procedures of the CASASC while upholding our mission, vision, and values.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

  • Bachelor’s degree in education or other relevant degree and/or 2+ years of related teaching experience.
  • Exceptional presentation & public speaking skills.
  • Experience working in, facilitating, or teaching in classroom and group settings.
  • Ability to build rapport with children and youth from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
  • Ability to relate to adults and professionals for the successful delivery of education and awareness information.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential.
  • Able to work collaboratively in a team environment and/or independently.
  • Superior time management skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Proficient using computers and presentation equipment (incl. basic troubleshooting) of virtual and presentation platforms (zoom, google meet, projector, and sound setup).
  • Proficient in Windows, Word, Internet, Email & Social Media is essential.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings/weekends for special events and be able to travel within Central Alberta to fulfil job responsibilities.
  • Professional, responsive, and positive work attitude.
  • Must be able to submit a clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
  • A valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory Driver’s abstract is essential, access to a reliable vehicle with full cover insurance.
  • Should be able to fulfil the physical demands of the job such as the ability to lift at least 20lbs, climbing the stairs while carrying supplies, above-shoulder lifting, overhead reaching, frequent use of office equipment, sitting or standing for longer periods and other relevant physical tasks.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Plan, prepare and deliver all CASASC education programs by providing interactive and dynamic presentations, and education material by using age-appropriate methods and activities, either in-person or virtual; in schools and communities throughout the CASASC service region.
  • Design and deliver tailored education programs as/if requested by the schools, community and/or other agencies within CASASC’s service region.
  • Participate in community public education forums and/or events to promote the awareness of sexual violence issues & CASASC services. (Attending interagency meeting, staffing booths and events, conducting community visits)
  • Update education programs statistics in the tracking program and submit monthly/quarterly/annual reports to facilitate grants and internal requirements.
  • Conduct regular research and keep education programs’ content up-to-date related to CASASC’s prevention education such as (but not limited to) sexual violence, teen dating, consent, healthy relationships, and any other program that supports CASASC’s mission and vision.
  • Keep the schools and community contact list up-to-date. Stay in regular contact with the schools and community through different mediums to ensure the regular delivery of education programs to the target audience.
  • Perform other duties or tasks that may be assigned on an as-needed basis by the Manager or Executive Director.

 

TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES/STAFF DEVELOPMENT

  • Adheres to the values and guiding principles, policies, and procedures of CASASC and supports the strategic direction of the organization.
  • Participates in staff meetings and offered trainings.
  • Acts as a responsible team member by demonstrating initiative, completing work duties, and by maintaining clear, direct, and respectful communication with everyone in the work environment.
  • Proactively stays current with best and emerging practices in the field. Participates regularly in the staff development activities according to a learning and development plan identified through supervision and the on-going performance review process.
  • Provides back-up coverage to CASASC as required in response to the needs and priorities of the organization which includes other duties as and when assigned.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintains agency confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.
  • Represents CASASC in a professional manner.
  • Maintains on-going positive public relations with external agencies, groups, and individuals (if required).
  • Uses appropriate mechanisms for resolving internal agency problems.
  • Maintain professional relationship with internal and external stakeholders.

 

HOW TO APPLY

CASASC is an equal opportunity employer, and we value the importance of diversity, dignity, and worth of every individual in the workplace.

Please send your resume and cover letter with salary range expectations to casasc@casasc.ca. Mention your name and the position in the subject line, attachments must be in either PDF or Word (doc/.docx) format.

Application deadline: open until position is filled

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.

Now Hiring Educator

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CASASC is seeking to fill the position of Educator

 

The job details are as below:

Position: Educator

Reports to: Manager, Education Program and Community Relations

Number of positions: 1

Job Type: Permanent – Full Time

Hours per week: 40

Hourly rate: Determined based on education and experience

Anticipated Start Date: INACTIVE – POSITION NOW CLOSED

Location: Red Deer, AB & frequent daily travel to communities within Central Alberta

 

About Us:

The Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) is a voluntary, non-profit organization serving the Central Alberta region under the direction of a community-based Board of Directors.

We specialize in healing sexual trauma so you can talk freely about the hard stuff with no judgement. We provide a range of support services for individuals who are affected by sexual violence including counselling, play therapy, police and court support, crisis support and education.

 

JOB SUMMARY

As a part of CASASC’s Education team, the Educator supports our goal to increase the personal safety of individuals through awareness, education and empowerment, which will help to prevent sexual violence.

The Educator is a liaison between CASASC, community, schools and organizations, focusing on prevention and awareness education for children, youth, and adults. Our community and school-based programs are delivered to a range of individuals mainly from Kindergarten to Grade 12, but also to parents, adults and professionals.

This position provides in-person and virtual education sessions on a variety of content and topics focusing on violence prevention and sexual violence awareness, sessions are adaptable to meet the needs of community and school.

This position is part of the Education & Community Relations team. Educators may be expected to fulfill duties related to community relationship building, including attending meetings and events, staffing booths and conducting community visits. Educators are responsible for preparation, delivery, and follow-up of all applicable education programs as determined by CASASC and the Manager, Education & Community Relations.

The Educator is expected to have full knowledge of, and to follow the Philosophy, the Guidelines for Personnel Policies & Practices, and the Policies & Procedures of the CASASC while upholding our mission, vision, and values.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

  • Bachelor’s degree in education or other relevant degree and/or 2+ years of related teaching experience.
  • Exceptional presentation & public speaking skills.
  • Experience working in, facilitating, or teaching in classroom and group settings.
  • Ability to build rapport with children and youth from Kindergarten to Grade 12.
  • Ability to relate to adults and professionals for the successful delivery of education and awareness information.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English is essential.
  • Able to work collaboratively in a team environment and/or independently.
  • Superior time management skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks with minimal supervision.
  • Proficient using computers and presentation equipment (incl. basic troubleshooting) of virtual and presentation platforms (zoom, google meet, projector, and sound setup).
  • Proficient in Windows, Word, Internet, Email & Social Media is essential.
  • Availability to work occasional evenings/weekends for special events and be able to travel within Central Alberta to fulfil job responsibilities.
  • Professional, responsive, and positive work attitude.
  • Must be able to submit a clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.
  • A valid Driver’s License with a satisfactory Driver’s abstract is essential, access to a reliable vehicle with full cover insurance.
  • Should be able to fulfil the physical demands of the job such as the ability to lift at least 20lbs, climbing the stairs while carrying supplies, above-shoulder lifting, overhead reaching, frequent use of office equipment, sitting or standing for longer periods and other relevant physical tasks.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Plan, prepare and deliver all CASASC education programs by providing interactive and dynamic presentations, and education material by using age-appropriate methods and activities, either in-person or virtual; in schools and communities throughout the CASASC service region.
  • Design and deliver tailored education programs as/if requested by the schools, community and/or other agencies within CASASC’s service region.
  • Participate in community public education forums and/or events to promote the awareness of sexual violence issues & CASASC services. (Attending interagency meeting, staffing booths and events, conducting community visits)
  • Update education programs statistics in the tracking program and submit monthly/quarterly/annual reports to facilitate grants and internal requirements.
  • Conduct regular research and keep education programs’ content up-to-date related to CASASC’s prevention education such as (but not limited to) sexual violence, teen dating, consent, healthy relationships, and any other program that supports CASASC’s mission and vision.
  • Keep the schools and community contact list up-to-date. Stay in regular contact with the schools and community through different mediums to ensure the regular delivery of education programs to the target audience.
  • Perform other duties or tasks that may be assigned on an as-needed basis by the Manager or Executive Director.

 

TEAM RESPONSIBILITIES/STAFF DEVELOPMENT

  • Adheres to the values and guiding principles, policies, and procedures of CASASC and supports the strategic direction of the organization.
  • Participates in staff meetings and offered trainings.
  • Acts as a responsible team member by demonstrating initiative, completing work duties, and by maintaining clear, direct, and respectful communication with everyone in the work environment.
  • Proactively stays current with best and emerging practices in the field. Participates regularly in the staff development activities according to a learning and development plan identified through supervision and the on-going performance review process.
  • Provides back-up coverage to CASASC as required in response to the needs and priorities of the organization which includes other duties as and when assigned.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Maintains agency confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential.
  • Represents CASASC in a professional manner.
  • Maintains on-going positive public relations with external agencies, groups, and individuals (if required).
  • Uses appropriate mechanisms for resolving internal agency problems.
  • Maintain professional relationship with internal and external stakeholders.

 

HOW TO APPLY

CASASC is an equal opportunity employer, and we value the importance of diversity, dignity, and worth of every individual in the workplace.

Please send your resume and cover letter with salary range expectations to hr@casasc.ca. Mention your name and the position in the subject line, attachments must be in either PDF or Word (doc/.docx) format.

Application deadline: 12:00pm on Monday, March 20, 2023

We thank all applicants for their interest, however, only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.

Why is bullying a topic we are still talking about?

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By Carlia Schwab

Why is bullying a topic we are still talking about?

On February 22 many communities across Alberta will celebrate Pink Shirt Day, a day to create awareness and show your support for anti-bullying.

Here at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC) we like to talk about bullying prevention all month long. We seek to help change the narrative surrounding bullying – where bullying is about what you do (the behaviour), not about who you are, a bully. Bullying behaviour is intentional, meaning it often involves one person repeatedly misusing their power/privilege to negatively impact the actions and feelings of another person or influence peers to join in.

Changing the narrative involves understanding bullying behaviour and talking about respectful relationships and positive use of power. This is something you can do at any age.

 

Children

Bullying behaviour for children can be seen in a breakdown of respectful interactions with siblings and peers. Examples include pushing and shoving, throwing toys at others, not allowing others to join in a game or activity, hurting others due to strong emotional reactions (ex. hurting others who won’t share), and prioritizing their wants no matter the impact on others (ex. laughing at others for attention or pushing someone out of line because they want to be first).

Children are at an ideal age for adults to reinforce healthy relationship skills. We can teach children about the impacts of our words and actions and how to understand emotions. Use teachable moments to empower children to make more respectful decisions when interacting with others. Adults can role model healthy behaviours, show how to use respectful language to communicate with others, and reinforce strategies for calming down and re-directing our emotions so we don’t make choices to harm others.

Youth

Bullying behaviour for youth can be seen in a school or team context, by peers, friends or teammates. It is a misuse of power directed at others for personal or social gain and can be verbal or physical, involve our peers and emotions (social), and can occur using technology (cyber). Exclusion, fights, degrading comments, gossiping and rumor spreading, are all common examples of bullying behaviour that youth experience.

We can have an impact on youth bullying behaviour by reinforcing peer-to-peer relationship skills. Empowering youth to develop and use positive life skills like assertive communication, conflict resolution, empathy, understanding diversity, and challenging harmful labels and stereotypes.

We can keep digital literacy and bystander intervention top of mind when supporting youth. Encourage youth to take their digital realities seriously, understand both the positive and negative aspects of living within a technology focused world and be able to problem solve helpful solutions when technology is used to harm others. Encourage respectful bystander interventions, practice helping others, ensure youth understand the impacts of harmful behaviours and brainstorm intervention solutions and responses.

Adults

Bullying behaviour for adults often occurs within family groups or in the workplace. It can consist of gossiping and rumor spreading, exclusion and targeted cruel and hurtful comments.

We can challenge adult bullying behaviour by practicing conflict resolution or assertive statements that can be used to interrupt the harmful behaviours we encounter or are a part of. We can be aware of workplace policies and processes, connect in with Human Resources about reporting and resolution steps. From a prevention lens, we can build rapport with others, get to know the similarities and difference we have with others, intervene when we see harmful behaviours, find ways to treat everyone with respect and don’t participate in gossip.

 

We can see bullying is a relationship problem that requires relationship solutions at all stages. When we don’t encourage relationship solutions as a prevention tool or a response measure, our ability to build resiliency and respond to the impacts of bullying behaviour are less developed.

The impacts of bullying behaviour are wide and don’t just hurt in the moment, it can hurt for a very long time. Impacts can be felt by everyone involved – the person targeted, the person doing the bullying behaviour, the people who witnesses it, family, friends, our school, workplace and community.

 

Short-term impacts of bullying behaviour can include:

Feeling anxious, feeling depressed, low self-esteem, trouble concentrating, trouble sleeping, poor body image, headaches, body pains, missing school/work, isolation, loneliness, few social relationships, withdrawal from family/friends, lying.

Long-term impacts of bullying behaviour can include:

Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, mental health issues/poor mental health, poor physical health, increased used of drugs and/or alcohol, harmful coping mechanisms, self-harm, lack of social relationships, dropping out of school, lower level of employment.

 

Having empathy and understanding how others feel and how they are impacted by bullying behaviour can motivate us to step in and help others. We all have the power to help or hurt others.

Bullying behaviour doesn’t go away and hasn’t become less prevalent just because we have exhausted the conversation. Bullying behaviour requires real and healthy relationship solutions and until we can make relationship solutions and education consistent, we will always need a platform to talk about the issue. Be part of a relationship solution, not a contributor to a bullying reality.

If you or someone you know would like support in working through a bullying situation and its’ impacts, please reach out to trusted adults, human resources, school counsellors, online resources, or help lines.

Don’t excuse the behaviour as normal or “something everyone goes though.” Instead validate the feelings and impacts caused by harmful bullying experiences and seek to change the narrative. It doesn’t just have to be physically harmful, violent or a mental health issue to warrant support.

We are all worthy and deserving of having relationships, living, and interacting in spaces free from bullying behaviour.

Carlia Schwab is the Education and Community Awareness Manager at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

Pink Shirt Day 2023

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Pink Shirt Day is coming up on February 22. This is a day to celebrate the bullying prevention initiatives schools, communities and students do all year.

CASASC would like to offer our support to schools and community by providing a free document of Pink Shirt Day activities, inspiration and colouring pages.

Click the links below to access the Pink Shirt Day Resource Package and colouring pages which will allow you to engage students in all grades with bullying prevention-themed activities and opportunities throughout the month of February. Have your efforts this month come together on Pink Shirt Day or another day of your choosing.

Primary prevention is a passion here at CASASC which includes bullying behaviour prevention education. Please take this Pink Shirt Day document as our way of supporting all our Central Alberta communities, schools and students in their efforts to continue building healthy relationships, students and schools. We are here for you, we support you, we care.

 

Pink Shirt Day Resource Package

 

Colouring Pages

 

You are invited – Red Deer Rebels Community Corner

Join us on Friday, February 24 as we celebrate Pink Shirt Day and bullying prevention at the Red Deer Rebels home game. Stop by our booth in Community Corner to get your tickets for some great items like our “giant” stuffed unicorn Ressie.

Weare something pink for a free sticker and one free entry for a kids colouring package prize draw.

Make sure to share your pink initiatives with us on Twitter or Instagram. We’d love to celebrate with you.

Twitter: @CASASC2

Instagram: @CASASC3

Education Learning Series 2023

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NEW – Foundations of Consent and Healthy Relationships (45 min)
Join us for a 45min workshop – participant conversations and interactions are encouraged – as we explore the foundation of consent for sexual activity through discussions on healthy relationships. A basic overview helping participants connect the dots between how we act in healthy friendships and how we use day-to-day permission to healthy intimate partner relationships and consent for sexual activity.

Consent laws and ages of consent as they apply to Alberta, Canada will be discussed.

FREE, Register here

Dates:

March 1, 11:00 – 11:45am MST

March 1, 3:00 – 3:45pm MST

 

What happens on a 24/7 Sexual Violence Helpline? (45 min)

Join us for an informal session about operating and volunteering on a 24/7 Sexual Violence Helpline.

Supported by volunteers with the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre, and available by phone, text and webchat to anyone in Alberta, Canada. The help line provides support to anyone impacted by Sexual Violence (direct or indirect) and is a resourcing and support service.

Use this opportunity to learn about the helpline and how you can utilize it in your community/workplace. Hear what it takes to volunteer on a help line. Help us share this free resource out to our Alberta community. We are here for you, we care!

FREE, Register here

Dates:

Tues, March 14 – 6:00 – 6:45pm MST

Tues, April 18 – 6:00 – 6:45pm MST

 

“Ask an Expert” Parenting + Sexualized Behaviour conversations with our clinical expert (60 min)

Join us for an informal session with our Child Therapist. Learn information related to parenting and supporting children and youth who display concerning sexualized behaviours.

OR maybe you want to join us to discuss a situation or behaviour your child is engaging in and get some advice on what is developmentally appropriate, how to support and respond etc.

Use this opportunity to connect with our counsellor for those unique and one-off questions that you may have but don’t want to go through our client wait list process to speak with a counsellor.

FREE, Register here

Dates:

Thurs, March 30 – 4:00 – 5:00pm MST

Thurs, April 27 – 4:00 – 5:00pm MST

 

Supporting Disclosures (45 min)
This session will help to enhance our skills and knowledge around supporting disclosures of sexual violence. An overview of the fundamentals of responding to and supporting disclosure of sexual assault and abuse from children, youth and adults. Learn some key messages and legal obligations when it comes to reporting child abuse.

FREE, Register here

Dates:

Fri, Mar 24 – 12:00 – 12:45pm MST

Wed, Apr 26 – 3:00 – 3:45pm MST

 

Services & Programs at CASASC (30 min)
Join us for a short 30min session overviewing the programs and services available at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

You’ll never know you need us, until you do!

FREE, Register here

Dates:

Fri, Mar 10 – 11:30-12:00pm MST

Thurs, Apr 6 – 9:30-10:00am MST

 

Introduction to Sexual Violence (60 min)
Do you want to enhance your knowledge around sexual violence education? Join us as we present an Introduction to Sexual Violence. This presentation is a public awareness and education presentation that introduces, and highlights, definitions and concepts related to sexual violence. We will discuss dispelling myths and stereotypes, talk about victim blaming, and the realities of sexual violence.

FREE, Register here

Dates:

Mon, Mar 6, 3:00-4:00pm MST

Fri, Apr 21, 9:00-10:00am MST

NEW – Ending Workplace Sexual Harassment Training

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Engagement Strategies Toward Ending Workplace Sexual Harassment

Dates:

Thursday, February 23 from 9:00am – 12:00pm
Friday, April 14 from 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Registration access by emailing education@casasc.ca

 

This is not your average anti-harassment training – An innovative online workshop to help us understand, respond to, and prevent sexual harassment

This three-hour, interactive, online learning opportunity is not your average workplace sexual harassment training. Facilitated by the Education team at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre (CASASC).

Research informed and using best practices for adult online learning, this workshop will explore what sexual harassment is (and isn’t), what it costs us, interpersonally and collectively, and, how to help stop sexual harassment as someone who:
• Witnesses someone sexually harassing others,
• Is told about someone else’s sexual harassment,
• Is told they have done something that might amount to sexual harassment, and,
• Is in a position of leadership and responsible for a safe and healthy workplace

COST

$75/participant
$50/participant for #momentsmatter campaign partners – if this is you let us know at education@casasc.ca and we’ll send you another ticket access link (for information on becoming a #momentsmatter campaign partner click here )

GROUPS
Groups of ten or more people receive a 20% discount. If you would like to register as a group, please email us directly at education@casasc.ca or call 403-309-1680

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS
• This training is conducted via Zoom and includes polls and chat discussion participation
• Prior to attending please ensure that you have downloaded the most current version of zoom
• You will need a laptop or desktop with speakers or headphones. A smartphone will NOT allow you to participate fully.
• We encourage each participant to log on from their own computer (as opposed to multiple participants sharing one computer) to ensure the best experience and participation in the training discussion and polls.
• It is important to use a secure internet connection rather than public/free Wi-Fi.

CERTIFICATE POLICY
A certificate of Completion will only be issued to participants who attend the workshop in full. Attendance is logged through Zoom as proof of complete attendance. Participants need to sign in on time, identify their registered name, attend the entire training, and complete the course evaluation. Certificates will be issued via email following the training session.

Consent – A short, yet impactful word

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By Kailee Burkinshaw

Consent – A short, yet impactful word

What is one of the first things you think of when you hear the word “consent?”

Is it the term “no means no?” What about consent or permission forms from when you were in school? Or when it involves social movements such as the #MeToo hashtag? Consent can be all of these things and more.

Consent is a term that has always been around, but it may not have been as widely talked about as it appears to be now in our news, media, classrooms or virtual worlds. This is why it is important to understand consent and what it involves. Knowing more about consent creates a more informed, respectful and safe world, for reasons this blog post will discuss.

When someone is talking about consent, it begins as an agreement between two people or groups that they want to do something together. Everyone can say “yes” in the agreement, especially after they know what they are agreeing to do. Someone can say “no” in the agreement too.

Framing consent this way can put into perspective how we have all been practicing consent our entire lives.

Have you ever asked a friend to hang out with you? Asked a colleague if you can eat lunch with them? Asked someone out on a coffee date? Indicated to someone you liked that you wanted to hold their hand or kiss them?

If you have said “yes” to any of these questions, then you have been practicing consent.

Continuing to seek someone’s consent and have other people respect your choices when it comes to consent, is the cornerstone of creating healthy, respectful relationships in our lives.

The CASASC education team has regular conversations in our Central Alberta community about consent and healthy relationships. To learn more about these conversations and opportunities, you can reach out to the team at education@casasc.ca.

What is involved with consent?

Consent can start with a simple “yes” or “no” question. Consent can involve letting someone know all of their options when it comes to settings in the medical field, higher education or the workplace.

We have consent in our friendships, within our families and with our dating partners. From high fives, to hugs, and all the way up to and including all forms of sexual activity, we need to practice and be receptive to consent.

But how do we get consent? How do we know we are receiving the right signals for consent? And do we have to be crystal clear every time we ask for consent?

When asking for consent, there needs to be the following considerations:

  1. How well do you know this person? Is it your first time meeting them, or have you known them a long time? What sort of relationship do you have with them? Do you know what sort of activities they are comfortable with?
  2. How does the other person express a “yes” or “no” with their words or actions? Can you yourself recognize them?
  3. Does the person you are asking know all of what they are agreeing to?
  4. Is the person you are asking consent from in an alert, sober, conscious and sane state of mind to understand what you are asking of them?

When we reflect on our relationships with other people, and the sort of agreements we have with them because of our relationship to them, we can better understand how asking for and receiving consent will work with them.

Consent- Easy as FRIES and OYMY

Consent needs to be enthusiastic, specific and informed. It also needs to be reversible—someone can say “yes” but can say “no” later if they change their mind—and freely given. We do not force someone to say “yes.” Rearranging these words can give us the term FRIES, an easy way to remember the parts of consent.

Another way to remember consent is with the term “Only Yes Means Yes.” CASASC has adapted this term into a series of posters under the “Only Yes Means Yes (OYMY)” campaign. More information on the campaign can be found here: https://casasc.ca/only-yes-means-yes-when-it-comes-to-consent/. If you are interested in posters for your business or organization, you can reach out to CASASC’s EDU Team at education@casasc.ca.

Consent is an everyday practise and can be a way to honor and show respect and safety in our relationships and community.

Kailee Burkinshaw is a prevention educator with the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

The importance of prevention

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By Bailey Martineau

The Importance of Prevention:

Welcome to prevention education. We’re so glad that you have found us! You may be wondering what ‘prevention education’ is and why is it important for you, your children, grandchildren, and all school children.  Well, you have come to the right place!  This blog will explore the importance of prevention, why we provide prevention education, and why it is needed in our schools.

If you are new to Central Alberta, CASASC has a dedicated education team that specializes in the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. You can find more information about our programs and/or book us to deliver our program to your organization at education@casasc.ca.

Now, on to explaining the importance of prevention.

As a former preschool teacher, I witnessed firsthand the impact of sexual abuse on a child. Children under the age of five do not have the developmental ability to discern when someone’s motives are insincere or when someone is lying.  So, if they feel uncomfortable with something that has happened to them, they typically will tell someone they trust.  These ‘disclosures may occur during, dramatic play, reading a book, or even during one-on-one time. Students usually came to me during free play time, when colouring, or just quietly reading books – and they would share what happened that is making them uncomfortable.  Oftentimes, nothing needed to be said as it was clear in the child’s demeanor when dropped off at school by their guardian.  As adults who know and understand the signs of abuse, we need to be the voice and advocate for children who don’t understand what is happening to them.

If you are fortunate enough to have a child trust you enough that they come to you and tell you something that happened to them, you should feel honoured; this means that you are a safe person for that child. No need to feel scared. That child chose you to help them! Having an understanding of prevention is so important so you know how you can do to help that child.

The signs of childhood sexual abuse are not always obvious and as a result, it is important to learn the signs and symptoms so that early action can be taken, thereby ending or preventing abuse.

Prevention is important to everyone – and the best prevention is education.  We make sure everyone is aware of the elements of body safety. Children need to understand what consent is and how to impose body boundaries that they are comfortable with.  Prevention education empowers everyone in positive ways.

Have you ever wondered about the steps involved in prevention education?  Following are some steps that we, as a community, can take.

  1. Act: Do something. As a community, we need to act. If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering what you can do to prevent childhood sexual abuse. We must counteract it with kindness, grace, practice, and most importantly, believing the child/youth if they come to talk to you about it. If you know – or even suspect – childhood sexual abuse, it’s your responsibility (and the law!) to report it immediately.
  2. Join Forces: Reach out to non-profits in your community who talk and teach about sexual abuse – churches, schools, libraries, and other civic groups – to get involved in prevention programs.
  3. Support the victim: Believe the victim. Report when necessary. Offer support, empathy, and kindness. Let them know they are not alone. Help to find resources to start the healing journey.
  4. Educate Yourself: Programs like ours help children, youth and adults understand body boundaries, consent, relationships, and safe or unsafe adults. We give them a voice and the tools to prevent sexual abuse.
  5. Speak up: Let’s give childhood sexual abuse a voice. Let’s stop it in its tracks. The more we talk about it, learn, and educate, the less likely abuse can happen. Prevention begins with each one of us!

Prevention strategies aim to stop violence before it occurs by addressing the way individuals, relationships, community, and societal factors impact interpersonal violence.

Given my past experiences, I am impassioned to ensure everyone is educated on the prevention of sexual abuse.  My hope is that, as a community, we can use these steps to recognize, act, and prevent sexual abuse in our community.

Why Prevention Education?

This is where we take social action through prevention education:

Prevention education builds confidence, critical thinking skills and helps prepare children and youth for potentially dangerous situations in the real world. We should teach children and youth assertive skills so they can respond appropriately and say “no!” when necessary.

Prevention education also requires that children and youth know what a safe adult is and where a safe adult is allowed within their body boundary.

Here is a question for you what makes a safe adult? How do children and youth know that a specific adult is safe to be around?  Are you, as the adult, able to respond to this question? Do you think your child or grandchild understands this? If not, it’s time to have a conversation about safe adults.

Another question to think about: Do you know what a body boundary is?

In our prevention program, we discuss and have related activities on body boundaries. What touches are allowed in each bubble? Our No Secrets program teaches that “no one should look at, no one should touch, and no one should take pictures of our private parts.” If this rule is broken, our prevention education teaches the skills of “no, go, tell” – say “no” loudly, go somewhere safe and tell a safe adult what happened.

We also teach that a doctor should be one of the only people that can look at or touch us in order to keep us healthy – but only with our permission and consent.

Research shows that elementary age children are not developmentally able to lie, so it’s important that if a child says someone has touched them inappropriately, adults believe them.

Our program also teaches the importance of learning the correct body part names as when children and youth are familiar and comfortable with body part names, they can tell a safe adult what happened and there is no misunderstanding.

We want children and youth to feel empowered when it comes to their bodies and boundaries. Our program, like any other prevention education program on sexual abuse, is not sex education; rather it is a prevention program to ensure children and youth are equipped with tools to stop an act before it happens and to educate about right from wrong and what is (or is not) appropriate.

Why is Prevention Education Needed in Schools?

Just like learning how to do a fire drill or a lock down, children need to learn and understand how to keep their bodies safe. Teaching these concepts in an age-appropriate classroom setting with peers fosters autonomy and self-esteem.

Bailey Martineau is a prevention educator at the Central Alberta Sexual Assault Support Centre.

What happens on a sexual violence help line?

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What happens on a 24/7 Sexual Violence Helpline? (60 min)

Join us for an informal session about operating and volunteering on a 24/7 sexual violence helpline.

Supported by volunteers with CASASC and available by phone, text and webchat to anyone in Alberta, the help line provides support to anyone impacted by sexual violence (direct or indirect) and is a resourcing and support service.

Use this opportunity to learn about the help line and how you can utilize it in your community/workplace. Hear what it takes to volunteer on a help line. Help us share this free resource out to our community. We are here for you.

Free, register here

Upcoming dates:

Tuesday, November 28 – 6:00 – 7:00 pm MST

Tuesday, December 13 – 6:00 – 7:00 pm MST

Education Program receives Inspiration Award

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The CASASC Education Program is the recipient of a provincial award recognizing leadership in sexual violence prevention.

CASASC Education team members attended the 2022 Inspiration Awards ceremony in Calgary on June 24.

A total of ten Inspiration Awards were presented by the Ministry of Community and Social Services to individuals and groups for their leadership in ending family violence and abuse in communities across the province. Awards recognized leadership in preventing family violence, sexual violence, child abuse and bullying.

The awards were presented by Jason Luan, Minister of Community and Social Services with the Honourable Lois Mitchell acting as Master of Ceremonies.

CASASC received its’ program award for showing leadership in sexual violence prevention.

“Having to adapt to COVID realities, in October 2020 the education program underwent a complete revision of all programming, developing content to virtual teaching modalities and adapting to meet the needs of in-person teaching dynamics,” said Lois Mitchell at the ceremony. “The CASASC Education Program grew in the following months from one solidified program into five formal school offerings for Grades K-12, with full availability to schools and community starting September 2021.

“Through the expansion of programs and age-appropriate content and topics, the education program has contributed to the enhanced awareness and prevention of sexual violence and the creation of healthy relationships for all schools within central Alberta. Offering programs at no-cost and either virtual of in-person delivery models, the education program helps to reduce barriers to their programs and are quickly becoming a recognized and recommended sources for primary prevention programming.”

The CASASC Education Program is a prevention-focused program designed to prevent sexual violence in the central Alberta region. It is the home of educational programming like No Secrets K-4 and Healthy Dating Relationships 101. The team currently consists of five educators who completed 477 presentations in the 2021-2022 school year.

This is the second Inspiration Award received by CASASC. In 2018, CASASC received a group leadership award for offering innovative and comprehensive programs and services.