(originally posted 16 May 2012)
Artistically Speaking Out Against Bullying (ASOAB) is a holistic and innovated program designed to address bullying on many levels!
Our uniquely inspired programs help participants rediscover their self confidence and value. When people feel good about them self, they are less likely to engage in behaviours that are harmful in nature. These behaviours include, but are not limited to bullying and being bullied. While some programs within ASOAB lend them self to shorter periods of duration, the ultimate goal is to create an environment where participants and their families feel safe to speak freely, and without judgement. It takes time to establish a relationship based on mutual trust, compassion and growth. For this reason, ASOAB programs are designed to run a year (Sept/June). During that year, the goal is for each participant to not only rediscover a talent they have but also feel inspired and confident in their overall abilities. At the end of the program, participants will be given the opportunity to exhibit their work. Events such as art showings and performances will not only help ASOAB raise awareness for positive change but it will also raise funds to keep ASOAB sustainable. More importantly, it provides the participants with a chance to show case their pieces/talent. This becomes an exciting celebration for everyone, including our community.
ASOAB does offer a few short term programs as well. These programs are designed to introduce participants to ASOAB and the different disciplines available. Shorter programs are offered in a variety of ways, such as: half, three quarter or full hour sessions once a week for six to eight weeks; depending on the discipline. These sessions are for those interested in opportunities based on a more relaxed and social environment. Shorter sessions can also be added to any Bullying Presentation. In each of these cases, while self appreciation and rediscovering of self value remains the priority, they do not tend to create the same ‘safe’ environment that allows for deeper self rediscovery; as such they do not conclude with a celebration or showing.
ASOAB also offers workshops and presentations to groups and organizations. Bullying is not just about peer bullying between children and/or youth. The truth is it happens everywhere, within all age groups. Our presentations are designed to explain what bullying is vs. conflict, why it happens and what we can do about it. We will look at current and pending legislation, policies and procedures. You’re encouraged to learn what your rights and responsibilities are as well as those of your loved ones such as your children. We’ll explore how important relationships are in the bullying web and discover what roadblocks are real and which are not, when trying to address bullying. These presentations are both informative and interactive. While Bullying is very serious, the presentations are designed to be hopeful and helpful rather than empty and blame based. When you leave an ASOAB presentation, it is our goal that you’ll feel inspired to create a positive change in your environment however big or small that is.
For more information about participating in a program or organizing a presentation/workshop, please contact Carleana at carleana@asoab.org