Happy International Women’s Day

The year I turned 50, I spent time reflecting on the women who had most supported me and shaped me into the person I am today. It turned out to be a deeply meaningful exercise. I identified these women, made each of them a small gift, and then found a time to thank them and name what they have meant to me. It took me a whole year to work through my list.

We wonder which women come to mind for you — women who have encouraged and inspired you, who perhaps saw strengths in you that you yourself could not yet see.

Jill and I recently completed our February online training. As always, it was an incredible group of dedicated and hardworking women. It is so encouraging for us to hear about the committed work happening in communities all across Canada, seeking to create more safety and connection for women and children.

If part of what you do is support women impacted by violence and abuse, thank you. We know your work means so much to the women you support, and your influence will ripple out far beyond what you can possibly see.

Thank you as well to those of you who have listened to our podcast or shared it with the women you support. We continue to hear from advocates and survivors alike about how the podcast encourages them and helps them feel seen and understood.

Reflections on the podcast

“I love the podcast! All the counsellors in the office are listening to it, and we are sharing it with clients who report feeling seen and validated by listening. Thank you!”

Nat, Community Victim Services Worker & Sexual Assault Services Community Coordinator

“Thanks so much for forwarding the podcast series to me. I have been listening intently to every episode, and I can’t stress how helpful it has been to hear from other women who have gone through what I have. I’ve listened to many episodes on repeat to remind myself that being in an abusive relationship for over 13 years was not my fault. I wasn’t a fool or an idiot for taking that long to leave. I also appreciate hearing that it’s normal to find it hard to trust again after experiencing abuse for so long.”

Juliana (survivor)

“I have finished listening to your When Love Hurts podcasts. The episodes are challenging, affirming, and hopeful. As I listened to the two of you, I knew I was listening to compassionate, intelligent experts. What a gift.”

Linda (survivor)

If you haven’t yet listened to the podcast, we warmly invite you to do so.

Upcoming spring training

A reminder that our last online training before the fall will be held on May 28–29. Interest is high, and the training is filling up quickly. We encourage you to register early to avoid disappointment.