2024 SVN International Conference: Safe Spaces: Supporting Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

**VIRTUAL ATTENDANCE NOW AVAILABLE**

October 16-17, 2024

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Join us for the 2024 SVN International Conference, where we will delve deep into the critical issues surrounding intimate partner violence (IPV) and emphasize the paramount importance of creating safe and supportive environments for survivors. Under the overarching theme of "Safe Spaces," this year’s conference is designed to empower professionals in the fields of parenting time and domestic violence intervention. Throughout the conference, we will explore innovative strategies, best practices, and the latest research aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of survivors of IPV. Our goal is to equip attendees with practical tools and knowledge to effectively support individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

By participating in workshops, engaging with expert speakers, and networking with peers, attendees will gain valuable insights into addressing the complexities of IPV within the context of parenting time/supervised visitation. This event serves as a pivotal platform for professionals to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, and advocate for policies that promote justice and equity for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative dialogue, contribute to advancing the field, and join us in building a future where every survivor has access to safe and nurturing environments. Register today to secure your place at the forefront of creating positive change.

Featured Speakers

Building a Bigger Wave-Strengthening our Approach to Gender-Based Violence
Margaret MacPherson, M.A., Research Associate
Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children at Western University

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a widespread issue that requires a coordinated and informed response. This workshop is designed specifically for professionals in Parenting Time programs, focusing on their unique role in addressing GBV. Participants will explore effective strategies to prevent and respond to GBV within the context of Parenting Time programs. Attendees will examine the dynamics of power, control, and societal norms that perpetuate violence while also learning how their programs can help ensure safety for survivors and children and accountability for perpetrators.

Why Won’t She Leave?: Shifting the Focus After All These Years
The Honorable Judge Victor Reyes
Mahakaruna Holistic Foundation

In this interactive session, developed in collaboration with domestic violence survivors currently incarcerated, we will explore the complex decision-making process faced by individuals subjected to coercive control by their abusers. Through immersive activities, participants will gain insight into how victims navigate various systems and challenges in their daily lives. Following this experience, we will engage in a discussion about the dynamics of coercive control and its profound impact on victims and their children.

Supportive Supervised Visitation for Families Impacted by Gender-Based Violence 
Joe Nullet, CAE, Executive Director  & Jennifer Garst, MSW, Director of Training and Development 
Supervised Visitation Network 

This workshop equips professionals with key skills to provide supportive supervised visitation for families affected by gender-based violence. Participants will learn to foster safe and positive parenting time, support both parents and create a child-centered environment. The session will also cover developing safety plans tailored to each family's needs, prioritizing the well-being of all members during visits. 

 SPEED LEARNING SESSIONS: 

Designed to maximize learning in a short amount of time, Speed Learning Sessions offer attendees a dynamic and fast-paced educational experience. Each session provides focused, bite-sized presentations on key topics, allowing participants to explore a range of subjects in a condensed format. Presenters share essential insights, practical tools, and innovative strategies in rapid succession, offering a variety of perspectives and solutions.

Topic Include: 
Child Refusal: Christine Stark, Pathstone 
Virtually Speaking: Daniella Bozur, YWCA Hamilton
Mental Health: Jennifer Garst, MSW Supervised Visitation Network 
Community Collaboration: Cheryl Clarke Community Services of Belleville and District & Amanda Bruyns Merrymount Family Support and Crisis Centre
Family & Child Services: Angie Murphy The Rose Garden FSC
Policy Writing: Valya Roberts & Beth Pearson of Dalhousie Place 

CLICK HERE FOR THE AGENDA & SPEAKER INFO

Hotel Info: 

DoubleTree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton - Niagara Falls
6039 Fallsview Blvd 
Niagara Falls, ON L2G 3V6, Canada
Rate: $149.00 CAD  DEADLINE for this rate is September 20, 2025

Learn more and Reserve Room HERE 

Exciting Announcement: 
SVN Ontario Auction & Special Prize Opportunity!

We are thrilled to announce that the SVN Ontario Auction is just around the corner, and we’ve added an extra incentive for this year’s participants!

Bring your best auction items, and the person who donates the item that raises the most will win FREE access to the SVN Key Concepts Asynchronous Training – a comprehensive program designed to help you sharpen your supervised visitation skills. You can assign any person to the free training that you would like! 

Learn more about the Key Concepts training and auction here 

REGISTRATION INFO:

Attendance for SVN Member: $250 USD (CAD for Canadian Attendees Only) 
Attendance for Non-SVN Member: $300 USD (CAD for Canadian Attendees Only) 

CANADIAN REGISTRATION HERE* 

*Canadian Registration is for those in Canada Only*

United States Providers Register HERE