SVN International Conference

2024 SVN International Conference: Safe Spaces: Supporting Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

October 16-17, 2024

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Join us for the 2024 SVN International Conference, where we will delve deep into the critical issues surrounding intimate partner violence (IPV) and emphasize the paramount importance of creating safe and supportive environments for survivors. Under the overarching theme of "Safe Spaces," this year’s conference is designed to empower professionals in the fields of parenting time and domestic violence intervention. Throughout the conference, we will explore innovative strategies, best practices, and the latest research aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of survivors of IPV. Our goal is to equip attendees with practical tools and knowledge to effectively support individuals and families affected by domestic violence.

By participating in workshops, engaging with expert speakers, and networking with peers, attendees will gain valuable insights into addressing the complexities of IPV within the context of parenting time/supervised visitation. This event serves as a pivotal platform for professionals to exchange ideas, collaborate on solutions, and advocate for policies that promote justice and equity for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a transformative dialogue, contribute to advancing the field, and join us in building a future where every survivor has access to safe and nurturing environments. Register today to secure your place at the forefront of creating positive change.

Featured Speakers

Margaret MacPherson, M.A., Research Associate
Centre for Research and Education on Violence Against Women and Children
Western University

Margaret has been leading social change initiatives on gender-based violence for over twenty years. She designs projects, curriculum and related materials for CREVAWC initiatives including elder abuse, community coordination, workplace domestic violence, sexual harassment and violence, and exploitation. Margaret also convenes the Building a Bigger Wave network, a provincial network of Violence Against Women Coordinating Committees.
She is passionate in her belief that everyone has an important contribution to make in creating safe and supportive environments at work and in our communities.

Judge Victor Reyes served as a District Judge from 1999-2014 in the 10th Judicial District located in Pueblo, Colo. He has presided over criminal, civil, county court appeals, probate, domestic, protection order, and juvenile, along with dependency, and neglect matters. Before becoming a judge, he served as a deputy state public defender for the State of Colorado. Judge Reyes also served as the judicial representative on the Colorado Domestic Violence Offender Management Board.

Before becoming a judge, he served as a Deputy State Public Defender for the State of Colorado for 15 years where he also provided training. From October 2021 through January 2023, Judge Reyes served as the Judge in Residence for the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ). At NCJFCJ, he was involved with the Judicial Wellness Initiative, specifically hosting the Monday Morning Moments Wellness webinars along with leading wellness sessions at conferences. Judge Reyes also participated in nationwide training, developing curriculum, and writing on all aspects of the law that impact children, their families, and victims of domestic violence. He has written presentations on Compassionate Leadership, Engaged Justice, and Implied Bias. Since 2002, Judge Reyes has facilitated international and nationwide training to a variety of groups and organizations on issues related to mindfulness, every aspect related to domestic violence, the effects of vicarious trauma on judicial officers, judicial leadership, and federal firearms legislation. He provided training on domestic violence for Colorado Judges and has testified before both houses of the Colorado Legislature on DV-related legislation.