Program Development
“For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong.” – HL Menchken
My passion is taking truly complex problems and issues and translating them into easily understood educational materials and programs. Many organizations make the mistake of offering simple, fear based responses that ultimately do not resolve the issue. I believe that the public is looking for real answers to real problems – unfortunately, we often under-estimate their ability to absorb a complex and comprehensive response. The materials I write and the programs I develop often begin with a re-frame of the issue and then lead the consumer to new opportunities and conclusions.
Click here for a list of publications or my list of clients.
Presentations
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya Angelou
I believe it is critical that people have the chance to talk and interact as well as learn the facts behind the topic of sexual violence prevention. I provide interactive training on a number of topics that includes preventing the perpetration of sexual violence, prevention policies, working with youth serving organizations and family reunification.
Click here for a full listing of topics and presentations or my list of clients.
Social Marketing
“Why can’t we sell brotherhood the same way we sell soap?”
This is the concept behind social marketing. I believe we have a lot we can learn from the private sector approach to changing behaviors. We have seen successful changes in our behaviors including a precipitous decrease in cigarette smoking, a national commitment to recycling, and successful campaigns to ending drinking and driving. But organizations make the mistake that if we just educate the public they will change what they do. It may work for simple changes but complex issues such as sexual violence need a more sophisticated approach.
Strategic Planning
Strategic planning is a systematic process that helps an organization explore where they have been, where they are now and where they want to go. The organization takes the time to truly envision a future and then works to translate that vision into the practical steps it takes to get there. My approach to planning is to find the unique strengths of the organization through both internal and external conversations and surveys so that the best options are laid out as well as the most effective pathways to reach the three to five year vision. I make sure that the report is simple and easy to use so that it does not remain on the shelf when we are done. Last, part of my package is an offer to return in one year as a “tune-up” and help to ensure that the plan is practical and usable and does not simple sit on the shelf.
Research Interests
Preventing the Perpetration of Sexual Violence
To prevent sexual violence before anyone is harmed, one must also explore preventing the perpetration of sexual abuse.
Children and Adolescents with Sexual Behavior Problems
Adolescents is the ideal time to intervene and have the opportunity to affect a teen’s entire life trajectory.
Bystander Engagement
Understanding why people will speak up and/or do something is compelling research for public engagement on this difficult topic.
Social Marketing
Using the tools of private sector marketing to influence how people behave on this difficult topic.