Transforming Conflict, Transforming Life
Practical activity-based circles for non-violent conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and community building.
The Alternatives to Violence Program (AVP) is a workshop-based training that equips participants with practical tools for resolving conflicts without violence. Originally developed in prisons in the United States, AVP has been adapted worldwide and is now part of Sajha Dhago’s core offerings for communities, children, and organizations across Nepal.
AVP focuses on building self-esteem, communication skills, cooperation, trust, and community—helping participants manage anger and express themselves clearly and respectfully.
AVP workshops typically run for 3 days and include:
Group Healing Circles: 15–20 participants meet for 3–4 hour sessions weekly with trained facilitators in a confidential, safe environment.
Psychoeducation: Learning about trauma, stress responses, and healthy coping while reducing shame and stigma.
Artwork: Mandalas, bilateral scribbling, and drawing help participants become aware of themselves and safely enter the depths of their pain.
Sewing and Story Clothes: Using needle, thread, and cloth pieces, participants “sew to speak”, transforming their untold stories into beautiful narrative clothes.
Doll Creation: Participants create dolls for assertiveness activities, practicing saying “no” and respecting their own boundaries.
Story Cloth Exhibition: At the end of each phase, participants display their story clothes and share their journeys with others.
Participants gain skills and communication tools, with less tendency to escalate disagreements.
Children and adults realize they can handle difficult situations without aggression.
Participants learn to work as a team and support one another.
AVP can be delivered for schools, shelters, community groups, or organizations. Contact us to discuss bringing AVP to your setting.