School Programming
School districts, colleges and universities, and programs providing service to children and youth are eligible to receive free programs which promote nonviolence and conflict resolution.
The primary goal of CCN's school programming is to interrupt the cycle of violence in our community by teaching youth effective skills to identifying healthy vs. unhealthy relationships; handle risk factors associated with violence; and outline available resources.
Programming includes identifying types of abusive behavior; risks associated with relationship violence; and the impact violence has on society. Topics include: conflict resolution; dating violence/healthy relationships; anger management; and/or bullying/relational aggression.
All programs utilize a variety of teaching methods including: lecture, videos, role-plays, discussion, and support activities. Students also receive educational support materials such as CCN brochures, safety cards, etc. Through CCN's program, students become aware of healthy lifestyles and the availability of community support. Contact CCN's Prevention Educator at 412-364-6728 for programs.
A highlight of CCN's program is its curricular focus on optimistic bias. Optimistic bias offers an explanation as to why some individuals believe that they are less likely to be a victim of crime than others. CCN is the first to utilize this concept in not only a non-profit setting, but in violence prevention work.
Gathered through a three-year (2001-2004) collaborative research relationship with Dr. John Chapin and Penn State University, the research summarized Northern Allegheny County students' attitudes on violence. CCN's Healthy Relationship program has been proven to lower students' optimistic bias levels. Findings indicate that not only do students understand the concepts presented, but they are more likely to act on the information that they receive when they believe it is possible that they could be a victim of domestic violence.
CCN's Prevention Education Programming is made possible through support from generous donors, local foundations and the Target Community Giving Program.
Community Programming
Professional and community organizations may participate in and request educational programs. These programs are designed to address the basics of domestic violence and its impacts on the workplace, community, children, etc. Programs also highlight CCN's services and volunteer opportunities.
All programs are free of charge. Contact CCN's Volunteer Coordinator at 412-364-6728 to schedule programming.