600+
Workshops empowering
people to lead non-violent lives
AVP is an international movement that started in the 1970s in the American prison system.
AVP is an international movement that started in the 1970s in the American prison system. It began with the support of the Quakers (Religious Society of Friends) but the programme is non-denominational and is not affiliated to any particular faith or group. The programme has spread to over 50 countries around the world including New Zealand, Costa Rica, Israel, Russia and South Africa.
The Alternatives to Violence Project came to Ireland in the mid-1990s. Helen Haughton and a group of Quakers from Dublin started the programme in Mountjoy prison. From there, it spreaded to other prisons and AVP Ireland was founded. Helen herself was an active volunteer for more than 25 years and inspired many people in and out of prisons.
AVP Ireland is a voluntary organisation made up of a community of trained volunteers inside and outside prisons. We work in teams to run workshops in Irish prisons for anyone who would like to find ways of building better relationships and resolving conflict in a non-violent way. We believe in shared power and leadership, valuing everyone in the group for their experience and wisdom.
AVP recognises that conflict is a normal part of life – but that it is possible to learn new ways of responding. By discovering their inner strength and value, participants are empowered to make different choices when faced with challenge and conflict. We believe there is a power for good in everyone which has the potential to transform lives and communities.
The Underlying Core Values of Our AVP Organisation and Workshops
AVP International
Since its beginnings in the 1970s, AVP has spread worldwide. Over 50 national chapters are now active. They are supported by AVP International, which fosters the exchange of best practices and provides opportunities for joint reflection and mutual support.
Learn more about AVP International.
Our Vision
We are a community of volunteers from all walks of life committed to creating a society based on honesty and respect that can resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.
Our Mission
AVP’s mission is to empower people to live their lives without violence. Transforming conflict, transforming lives, together.
Our Values
The five pillars of AVP are Affirmation, Communication, Cooperation, Community and Trust.
Our workshops explore the underlying causes of anger and violence with empathy. Through discussion, games, activities and role play participants explore their own feelings and develop greater self-awareness. There is a focus on building self-esteem and valuing ourselves and each other. Developing listening and communication skills and assertiveness supports healthy relationships. The cooperation and trust that is built opens the potential for community building both inside the workshop and beyond. Conflict response skills and problem-solving skills help us to deal with the situations we face in the future. We are increasing the respect we have for ourselves and others.
