The Air Force, and society at large, are facing an ongoing challenge that is drastically affecting lives each day. While we fight wars in the Middle East, we are also taking on an enemy much closer to home.
Interpersonal and self-directed violence are realities the Air Force is combating with a variety of programs. The newest of which, Green Dot, was introduced in January of this year.
Green Dot is a non-profit organization that takes a proactive, rather than reactive, approach to combating sexual assault, suicide, domestic violence and stalking.
The program equips Air Force members and civilian employees with the tools and mindset necessary to make small changes in their daily routine to foster real change and ultimately, inspire a cultural shift which will eliminate all forms of violence. Its curriculum includes fast-paced, interactive sessions with discussion and collective brainstorming.
The new Specialist for Primary Prevention of Violence office will provide volunteer implementers, or trainers, to teach members that by going out of their way to help someone out with small actions, they can provide the spark to promote a positive environment that reduces violence. Some examples of these acts can be as simple as volunteering to be the designated driver for a Friday night out, pet sitting while an owner is away, or stopping to help someone with a flat tire. These actions can prevent harmful situations from arising in the first place.
The Green Dot motto, “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something,” encompasses this new, simple but powerful movement to reduce violence close to home. Distinct from SAPR, FAP, and the Mental Health office, Green Dot’s goal is to supplement these pre-existing resources which focus on violence response and intervention.
For more information about the SPPV office, call Dr. Cindi Drake at 228-7097.