The Montreal Assault Prevention Centre’s programs allow those vulnerable to assault the opportunity to empower themselves, through the acquisition of practical tools, rather then rules. This enhances peoples quality of life instead of restricting it and better prepares them to deal with an assault. An empowerment prevention strategy focuses on offering people choices and the inner strength to follow the strategy they feel most appropriate.

Our integrated approach to assault prevention distinguishes us from other organizations in that it is based on a theory which stresses respect towards people, personal choice and responsibility, and the right of each person to be Safe, Strong and Free. Québec’s Crime Victims’ Compensation Board (Indemnisation des victimes d’actes criminels - IVAC), Québec’s Ministry of Education and its Ministry of Health and Social Welfare have recognized this approach as a valuable resource to members of the community.

What Is Our Approach?

The Centre’s programming is based on an approach to prevention derived from the CAP Project which is based on a feminist analysis of vulnerability and power structures inherent in our society. The theory developed by the originators of the CAP Project states that 3 factors increase the vulnerability of individuals or groups. These three factors are:

-Lack of correct information about the nature of assault, how to prevent it and stop it.

-Emotional, physical and financial dependence on the people who are most likely to assault them.

-Isolation from each other and resources in the community which can help them end abuse and gain control of their lives.

Reducing Vulnerability: How?

By identifying what makes people vulnerable to assault we may work to reduce that vulnerability. The Centre’s workshops focus on:

-Providing accurate information about assault and practical tools and strategies to identify and deal with potentially dangerous situations.

-Increasing independence and confidence through sessions that are designed to respect the needs and capabilities of the group.

-Reducing isolation by developing peer and community resources.