Affirming Heart Victim Services
A Day in the Life: In Her Shoes
Monday, June 3rd, 2024 @ Loving High School
600 S 6th St, Loving NM
8:00am - 8:00pm
The focus of this conference is to provide "A Day in the Life" of domestic abuse to bring awareness and understanding of what victims of domestic violence face. Attendees will gain strategies for recognizing abuse; learning the effects the abuse has on the victims, the children & family, and the community; and the factors that a victim faces in their abuse.
Conference Agenda
All attendees will participate in the In Her Shoes, immersive experience. Based on the experiences of real survivors, participants walk in the shoes of various characters experiencing abusive and controlling relationships. Groups are given a card describing the background and current situation of a character. Different stations throughout align with each character; as participants are led to different stations, they read through scenarios their character faces, and make choices about their character’s next steps. The most critical part of the activity, however, is the debrief. Discussion helps participants answer lingering questions, give the facilitator the opportunity to dispel persistent myths and misunderstandings, and helps participants engage in the way they can make change individually and locally.
8:15am - 9:10am
Keynote 1
Andrew Campbell
Campbell Research & Consulting
My Story: “Someday” Never Comes: Breaking Generational Cycles of Familial Abuse
This presentation utilizes the presenter’s personal experiences and continuing research in the area of family violence. As a teen, the presenter was once told by his father, “Someday you will understand (why I do this to your mom)”. Fortunately, that day of accepting the emotional abuse occurring in the home has never come.
This presentation will highlight key concepts for ending generational cycles of familial abuse,
explore how concepts from initiatives to end generational cycles for other public health issues are also relevant, explain the importance of working at this issue from both directions (separate but equally effective programs for victims and perpetrators) and identify key areas of intervention for family violence professionals (law enforcement, court systems, animal welfare, education, medical, faith-based, etc.) in efforts to end abuse in the home. Ending generational cycles of familial abuse not only results in improved health outcomes for all humans and animals who currently reside in the home, but for the generations who follow as well.
9:15am - 10:35am
Breakout Session 1
Watching Dad Watching Mom: What Children Learn from Abusive Fathers
Part 1
David Adams, Ed.D.
Emerge, Co-Founder & Co-Director
Children who witness abuse are at much increased odds to grow up to become abusers. How can this inter-generational cycle be broken? Is it ever too late to do this? Dr. Adams will draw from his many years of experience counseling abusive men, teaching parenting classes, and serving as an expert witness in domestic violence cases to talk about the importance of helping men with histories of domestic violence to set a better example for their children. David will describe several key strategies used in Intimate Partner Abuse Intervention Programs to promote empathy and respect for partners and children. Dr, Adams draw upon his many years of working with abusive men, teaching fatherhood education classes, and serving as an expert witness in court cases involving allegations of domestic violence.
​
In Part 1, Dr. Adams will make use of children’s drawings of abusive fathers to illustrate children’s’ conflicted feelings and sense of self-blame and responsibility for the abusive father. This will be followed by discussion about how children in the same family can be affected in different ways, and how these effects can play out across their lifespans and their relationships with each other.
The Portrayal of Victim and Abuser in the Media
Elizabeth Crecente
Jennifer's Hope, Founder
In this presentation, we'll draw from Elizabeth's personal experience with the murder of her daughter, Jennifer, to illustrate the often oversimplified portrayal of victims and abusers in the media. Justin, Jennifer's boyfriend of 2 ½ years and eventual killer, is depicted only in jail stripes and mug shots, while Jennifer is portrayed as an angelic figure. However, the reality is far more nuanced. Jennifer grappled with her own mental health and exhibited abusive behavior at times. It's crucial to acknowledge this complexity because, otherwise, we can overlook the multilayered nature of abuse and don’t always understand that both partners, whether they're labeled as the abuser or the victim, deserve support and intervention to break the cycle of violence and promote healing. By recognizing the humanity and imperfections of the individuals involved, we can better tailor our responses and provide more effective support.
Understanding the Intersection: Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking
Karla Solomon
Mercy Gate Ministries, Director of Outreach & Training
Our training course on Understanding the Intersection of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking delves into the nuanced connections between these two forms of violence, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to address the complex needs of survivors effectively. Domestic violence and human trafficking often intersect, with survivors experiencing overlapping vulnerabilities and challenges. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of their similarities, differences, and implications for practice.
Physical Injuries in Domestic Violence Cases
Gail Starr, RN, BS, MSCJA, SANE-A, SANE-P
Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless, Practice Operations Manager
Supported by our local experts:
Angelia Parent, RN
Affirming Heart Victim Services, SPEAK SA & DV Program Coordinator
Gretchen Koether, RN, BSN
The Phoenix House, Executive Director
In this session will discuss the most common types of injuries seen with Domestic Violence. We will show the patterns of injuries from Strangulation, and why people bruise, or don't bruise.
Safety Planning
MaryEllen Garcia
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Supported by our local victim service provider:
Erika Wright
Carlsbad Battered Families Shelter, Executive Director
The goal of this session is to leave participants with skills in crisis response, danger assessment, and safety planning in a variety of contexts.
In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence - GROUP 1
10:40am - 12:00pm
Breakout Session 2
The Impact Providers Can Make When Working With Child Victims of DV
Haylee Cole
Advocate for Domestic Violence Awareness
In this presentation, Haylee will share some of the details of the investigation and trial that resulted from her mother’s death. This is a unique perspective directly from a young victim that discusses her thoughts as the investigation and trial progressed and changes from the perspective of a 12 year old girl to now a grown woman with a family of her own. Haylee will also discuss how and why she was compelled to take on the role for domestic violence awareness at an early age and how she continues to be involved in advocacy.
Did alcohol make him do it? Connection Between Domestic Violence & Substance Abuse
David Adams, Ed.D.
Emerge, Co-Founder & Co-Director
This session summarizes research as well as clinical experience about how domestic violence and substance misuse intersect. The presenter gives treatment recommendations for addressing these co-existing problems. The session also includes discussion of substance abuse as a risk factor for intimate partner homicide and recommends risk management strategies.
All Eyes on DV: Developing a Multi-Disciplinary Perspective to Domestic Violence
Andrew Campbell
Campbell Research & Consulting
This workshop provides a unique take on domestic violence prevention, identification, and
intervention by enabling participants to develop a multi-disciplinary perspective of violence in the home. Both discipline-specific and discipline-shared barriers to working with victims of domestic violence will be addressed and recent findings from research studies and academic literature directly impacting many disciplines (including court systems, faith-based organizations, law enforcement, education, social services, medical, animal welfare, child welfare, and domestic violence shelters) will be highlighted.
Participants will learn critical concepts for: addressing barriers to victim safety, including companion animals in the process, improving the response when children reside in a home where domestic violence occurs, and promoting data-driven, community-inclusive methods to better identify and assist victims of violence in the home, as early as possible.
Response to Stalking: Risk Assessment and Investigations
Dana Fleitman, M.A.Ed.H.D
SPARC, Training & Awareness Specialist
Despite its prevalence, stalking is rarely investigated or charged. Building an effective stalking case means asking the right questions, collecting needed evidence, and constantly assessing for victim safety. This session will explore how law enforcement can better investigate and charge stalking.
Impact of Domestic Violence on Children
Ana Lopez
Enlace Comunitario, Promotora Program Manager
Yesenia Valencia
Enlace Comunitario, Promotora
This presentation intends to deepen understanding, promote empathy, and inspire action to address the significant impact of domestic violence on children. We navigate the dynamics of types of abuse within Latinx immigrant families. Central to our presentation is a focus on resilience and protective factors that can mitigate the adverse effects of domestic violence on children. Through compelling stories of strength and survival, we highlight the critical role of supportive relationships, interventions, prevention efforts, and community resources in fostering healing and empowerment.
​
This presentation will be in Spanish- English translation subtitles will be provided.
In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence - GROUP 2
12:05pm - 1:05pm - LUNCH
Keynote 2
Karla Solomon
Mercy Gate Ministries, Director of Outreach & Training
"Breaking Chains: A Journey to Freedom"
Prepare to be captivated by a riveting presentation featuring a remarkable survivor of human trafficking. Our speaker will share her harrowing yet triumphant journey towards liberation from the bonds of exploitation. As we delve into her story of courage, perseverance, and ultimately, transformation, you will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of human trafficking and discover actionable steps towards creating positive change and empowerment for survivors. This is not just a presentation; it's a call to action and a testament to the power of hope and change.
1:05pm - 2:00pm
Keynote 3
Elizabeth Crecente
Jennifer's Hope, Founder
Teen Dating Violence: Jennifer's Story
In 2006, 18-year-old Jennifer Crecente was murdered by her ex-boyfriend. Jennifer was a bright, individualistic girl but she was also vulnerable to dating abuse. There were some programs in place for youth in unhealthy relationships, but Jennifer was largely failed by the professionals in her orbit. Her murderer’s family had also sought help from multiple professionals, including law enforcement and the court system. One in three adolescents in the U.S. is a survivor of dating abuse and one recent survey noted that 8.6% of New Mexican high school students had experienced physical dating violence in the prior 12 months. Teen Dating Violence is defined as a pattern of coercive, intimidating, or manipulative behaviors used to exert power and control over a partner. All teens are at risk for dating abuse. This session will not only explore awareness and the widespread consequences of teen dating abuse, but also prevention and strategies for the empowerment of teens.
2:05pm - 3:25pm
Breakout Session 3
Stuck In the Middle with You: Risks of Harm for Children & Pets in Domestically Violent Homes
Andrew Campbell
Campbell Research & Consulting
This presentation highlights the presenter’s recent publications in the Journals of Interpersonal Violence and Social Sciences in describing specific risks of physical and emotional harm for children and pets in domestically violent homes. Children residing in violent/abusive homes are often extremely dependent on pets for stability, support, encouragement, and unconditional love. Research indicates that children who witness abuse of companion animals are at increased risk of committing acts of violence or abuse in the future, against animals and humans. Protecting children, their pets, and the bond the two share in violent homes is critical to ensuring a more positive outcome for both.
Trauma-Informed Interviewing
Karla Solomon
Mercy Gate Ministries, Director of Outreach & Training
Our course on Trauma-Informed Interviewing provides essential knowledge and skills for professionals working with individuals affected by sexual trauma. Understanding the impacts of trauma is crucial for conducting interviews sensitively and effectively. This course offers a short overview of trauma and its effects, equipping participants with trauma-informed strategies tailored specifically for interviewing survivors of human trafficking, exploitation and sexual trauma.
When Domestic Violence & Mental Health Problems Intersect
David Adams, Ed.D.
Emerge, Co-Founder & Co-Director
What are the interconnections between domestic violence and mental illness? Does one cause the other or are they simply two different problems? This session overviews the connections between these two problems and describes the timing of treatment, and treatment strategies to address domestic violence when there is a co-existing mental health problem.
When Children Abuse Their Parents
MaryEllen Garcia
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Supported by our local victim service provider:
Erika Wright
Carlsbad Battered Families Shelter, Executive Director
This session will explore the abuse of parents by their adult children. This taboo form of abuse often leaves parents with the task of asserting stronger boundaries to stop their adult child from hurting them. Explore what may cause adult children to abuse their parents and what that abuse may look like.
Impact of Domestic Violence on Children
Ana Lopez
Enlace Comunitario, Promotora Program Manager
Yesenia Valencia
Enlace Comunitario, Promotora
This presentation intends to deepen understanding, promote empathy, and inspire action to address the significant impact of domestic violence on children. We navigate the dynamics of types of abuse within Latinx immigrant families. Central to our presentation is a focus on resilience and protective factors that can mitigate the adverse effects of domestic violence on children. Through compelling stories of strength and survival, we highlight the critical role of supportive relationships, interventions, prevention efforts, and community resources in fostering healing and empowerment.
​
This presentation will be in Spanish- English translation subtitles will be provided.
In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence - GROUP 3
3:30pm - 4:50pm
Breakout Session 4
A Journey Through Revictimization in the True Crime Era: What to Consider When Working with Victims/Survivors
Elizabeth Crecente
Jennifer's Hope, Founder
In this session, we'll delve into the complex journey of survivors of extreme violence and murder, navigating the daunting challenges they face in the "true crime" era. Elizabeth will draw on her experiences as a Teen Dating Violence Prevention Advocate, survivor of murder, and long-time grief group facilitator for crime victims. We'll start by examining survivors' initial interactions with law enforcement and the court system, where they may already feel a loss of agency. This can be compounded by the perceived pressure to conform to societal expectations of victimhood. The diverse range of reactions to trauma underscores the need to recognize and honor the humanness of each survivor. In the spotlight of the media, victims may find themselves judged for their perceived inadequacy in fulfilling the role of a "good victim." In particular, social media often perpetuates harmful narratives and unrealistic expectations. We'll explore the damaging impact of victim-blaming rhetoric that victims/survivors may be hearing, such as "I would have," "you should have," and "that would never happen to me because..." This emphasizes the importance of fostering empathy and understanding in your interactions with crime victims.
The Impact Providers Can Make When Working With Child Victims of DV
Haylee Cole
Advocate for Domestic Violence Awareness
In this presentation, Haylee will share some of the details of the investigation and trial that resulted from her mother’s death. This is a unique perspective directly from a young victim that discusses her thoughts as the investigation and trial progressed and changes from the perspective of a 12 year old girl to now a grown woman with a family of her own. Haylee will also discuss how and why she was compelled to take on the role for domestic violence awareness at an early age and how she continues to be involved in advocacy.
Stalking and Intimate Partner Violence
Dana Fleitman, M.A.Ed.H.D
SPARC, Training & Awareness Specialist
Nearly half of stalking offenders are current or former intimate partners. All stalkers can be dangerous, but current/former intimate partners are generally more threatening, violent, and interfering than other stalkers and may stalk their victims before, during, and/or after the relationship. It is important to identify stalking separate from and in addition to concurring intimate partner violence, and this session highlights the significant connections between the two victimizations.
The Power of Pets: How Pet-Friendly Domestic Violence Shelters Aid Healing, Build Morale, and Support Fundraising
Katie Campbell
RedRover, President and CEO
Ketia Johnson
RedRover, Community Outreach Coordinator
What happens when we support people in crisis and their pets? Join this interactive discussion to learn how creating a pet housing program not only removes a significant barrier to service, but also provides tremendous support in the healing process for people in crisis. You don’t have to be an animal lover to see how including pets in programming can have a powerful effect on everyone involved - from pets, to pet parents, to staff. This will be an engaging discussion that requires only an open mind and the willingness to shift your lens. Attendees will leave feeling energized and ready to take on the next steps to creating a pet housing program!
In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence - GROUP 4
4:55pm - 6:15pm
Breakout Session 5
Understanding the Intersection: Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking
Karla Solomon
Mercy Gate Ministries, Director of Outreach & Training
Our training course on Understanding the Intersection of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking delves into the nuanced connections between these two forms of violence, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to address the complex needs of survivors effectively. Domestic violence and human trafficking often intersect, with survivors experiencing overlapping vulnerabilities and challenges. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of their similarities, differences, and implications for practice.
Physical Injuries in Domestic Violence Cases
Gail Starr, RN, BS, MSCJA, SANE-A, SANE-P
Albuquerque Health Care for the Homeless, Practice Operations Manager
Supported by our local experts:
Angelia Parent, RN
Affirming Heart Victim Services, SPEAK SA & DV Program Coordinator
Gretchen Koether, RN, BSN
The Phoenix House, Executive Director
In this session will discuss the most common types of injuries seen with Domestic Violence. We will show the patterns of injuries from Strangulation, and why people bruise, or don't bruise.
Watching Dad Watching Mom: What Children Learn from Abusive Fathers
Part 2
David Adams, Ed.D.
Emerge, Co-Founder & Co-Director
Children who witness abuse are at much increased odds to grow up to become abusers. How can this inter-generational cycle be broken? Is it ever too late to do this? Dr. Adams will draw from his many years of experience counseling abusive men, teaching parenting classes, and serving as an expert witness in domestic violence cases to talk about the importance of helping men with histories of domestic violence to set a better example for their children. David will describe several key strategies used in Intimate Partner Abuse Intervention Programs to promote empathy and respect for partners and children. Dr, Adams draw upon his many years of working with abusive men, teaching fatherhood education classes, and serving as an expert witness in court cases involving allegations of domestic violence.
​
In Part 2, Dr. Adams will provide a summary of the Responsible Fatherhood Program at Emerge, a fathering education model that is designed for men with histories of domestic violence. He will discuss the two board goals of this program, 1) to increase parenting awareness of children’s concerns and needs at different ages, including how they are impacted by exposure to domestic violence, and 2) to build parenting skills in terms of re-building trust with children, attending to their emotional needs, and setting a more positive example in terms of modeling empathy and respect toward the other parent, and learning to be a more co-operative, as opposed to oppositional, co-parent. This will be illuminated by description of five key intervention strategies. As an expert witness in domestic violence cases, Dr. Adams will describe how he evaluates an abuser’s readiness to parent.
All Eyes on DV: Developing a Multi-Disciplinary Perspective to Domestic Violence
Andrew Campbell
Campbell Research & Consulting
This workshop provides a unique take on domestic violence prevention, identification, and
intervention by enabling participants to develop a multi-disciplinary perspective of violence in the home. Both discipline-specific and discipline-shared barriers to working with victims of domestic violence will be addressed and recent findings from research studies and academic literature directly impacting many disciplines (including court systems, faith-based organizations, law enforcement, education, social services, medical, animal welfare, child welfare, and domestic violence shelters) will be highlighted.
Participants will learn critical concepts for: addressing barriers to victim safety, including companion animals in the process, improving the response when children reside in a home where domestic violence occurs, and promoting data-driven, community-inclusive methods to better identify and assist victims of violence in the home, as early as possible.
Safety Planning
MaryEllen Garcia
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Supported by our local victim service provider:
Erika Wright
Carlsbad Battered Families Shelter, Executive Director
The goal of this session is to leave participants with skills in crisis response, danger assessment, and safety planning in a variety of contexts.
In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence - GROUP 5
6:20pm - 7:20pm
Keynote 4
Haylee Cole
Advocate for Domestic Violence Awareness
My Story: Haylee Cole
Haylee Cole has been an advocate for domestic violence awareness since her life changed as a result of domestic violence. Haylee was born to two parents - one loving and one abusive. Both Haylee and her mother became victims in early 2006. Over the next years, Haylee was involved in the criminal justice system in a manner unlike most other 12 year olds, as she worked regularly with investigators, prosecutors, and ultimately the court and the jury.
7:20pm - 8:00pm
Keynote 5
Melissa Allen
Survivor of Domestic Violence
"My Journey: From Darkness to Light in the Mountains"
Melissa's journey hasn't been easy. She's faced the darkness of domestic violence head-on, but her spirit never wavered. With love for her family as her guiding light, she found the courage to overcome. Join Melissa as she shares her story of resilience and hope. Let her warmth and wisdom inspire you to find strength in your own journey, no matter how tough the road may seem.
