We believe that taking the following steps, we CAN make a global difference to the horrific pandemic worldwide family abuse and violence.
Action: Building blocks of peace - safety and nurturing of families
SAFE families to help provide the building blocks for peaceful communities:
- Prevention of harm
- Fostering security and stability
- Providing love and care
- Creating a sense of belonging
- Encouraging shared problem-solving
Result: These elements may create an environment where individuals can develop empathy, conflict resolution skills, and a sense of security - all crucial for maintaining peace on a larger scale.
Action: Education and awareness
Rotary SAFE Families aims to educate communities about:
- Primary prevention of family violence
- Culturally/socially appropriate methods for identifying and addressing abuse
- Importance of respectful relationships
- Impact of violence on children and families
Result: Education helps create a foundation for peaceful interactions in the community.
Action: Global reach and collaboration
The program leverages Rotary's local and international network to:
- Provide resources and workshops to Rotary clubs globally
- Organise Mega-Meetings to share knowledge and strategies
- Facilitate cross-cultural dialogues on peace and non-violence
Result: This global approach fosters international understanding and cooperation, key elements of a peaceful world.
Action: Community leadership development
By engaging with:
- Community leaders
- Rotarians
- Various organisations
Result: The program empowers local changemakers/champions to become advocates for peace within their communities.
Action: Inclusive approach
Rotary SAFE Families addresses violence against:
- Men
- Women
- Children
- Elderly
- People of all diversities
Result: This inclusive focus ensures that peace-building efforts reach all segments of society, particularly the most marginalised.
Action: Action-oriented initiatives
The program goes beyond awareness by:
- Providing practical tools for violence prevention
- Offering workshops on conflict resolution
- Encouraging community-based peace projects with a focus on peace beginning within the home
- Ensure community ownership of initiatives and encourage/support local adaptation of materials (locally adapted materials can be part of the Rotary SAFE Families resource database to be shared).
Result: These actions translate peace concepts into tangible community improvements.
Action: Alignment with global peace initiatives
By adhering to:
- Rotary International's mission
- United Nations' peace objectives
- The Rotary Four-Way Test
Result: The program aligns local efforts with broader global peace-building strategies.
Action: Breaking cycles of violence
Through its focus on:
- Preventing abuse
- Promoting respectful relationships
- Addressing gender bias
Result: Rotary SAFE Families works to break intergenerational cycles of violence, laying the groundwork for more harmonious societies.
Action: Creating safe spaces for dialogue
The program facilitates:
- Open discussions about violence
- Dialogues on challenging topics
- Safe spaces for sharing experiences
Result: These conversations are crucial for building understanding, empathy and healing, and provide cornerstones of a peaceful society.
Summary: By addressing the root causes of family violence, promoting respectful relationships, and fostering global cooperation, Rotary SAFE Families contributes significantly to building a culture of peace that extends from individual homes to the global community.
