Men's Outreach 

MEN. LEAD BY EXAMPLE.

Men. Lead By Example. encourages men and boys to work as allies with women and girls to prevent domestic and sexual violence and create healthy relationships. 

The Vera House Engaging Men & Boys Program provides opportunities for boys and men to engage in leadership conversations, challenge assumptions, and change cultural norms that allow violence to occur. We meet men and boys where they are through introductory and in-depth conversations that coincide with their needs at the time. 

Program Objectives:

• Create a community free from men's violence against women and girls 
• Raise awareness about healthy relationships 
• Encourage men and boys to commit to helping end domestic and sexual violence 
• Facilitate culturally specific conversations about the issues of domestic and sexual violence 

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A component of our “Men. LeAd By Example.” Program is the 12 Men Model

Men are invited to take a leadership role and recruit other men to join them in a pledge to never support, commit or remain silent about abuse. The 12 Men Model assembles men in small groups and encourages them to rethink and redefine healthy masculinity. This prevention-focused program encourages men to dialogue and rethink masculinity and male roles. With the guidance of a facilitator, the program challenges the thoughts of those involved in the group and empowers them to challenge the thoughts of others in their communities. 

Participants have described the program as life-affirming, creating a group of men who lead by example, treating their partners and children with dignity and respect. Are you ready to take action? Please click HERE to complete our online pledge.

Ready to get involved? Email our Men's Outreach Program Coordinator or call 315-425-0818.

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12 Men Model FAQ:

Do I need 12 Men for the 12 Men Model?

No, we have worked with groups as small as 4 and as large as 30. 

How long is this training?

The training is typically spread out over five, 2-hour sessions. The final session is two hours.  We believe this provides the best experience and offers the opportunity to include contemporary, in-the-moment issues as they arise.  While live instruction is preferred, virtual instruction is also available. 

Who should I invite?

Invite people you know, men in your circle of influence with whom you work or socialize. The purpose of the training is to build a deeper sense of accountability within the group that you have the most influence. 

Can't commit to forming a 12 Men group right now? You can still make a difference by:

• Hosting a conversation of whatever length about healthy masculinity and relationships at your job, club, or faith-based organization. 
• Request domestic violence and/or sexual assault awareness and prevention training for your group or organization. 
• Be proactive in calling attention to attitudes that perpetuate violence and abuse. For example, language like “she was asking for it”, “boys will be boys”, or ” what happens in the family stays in the family.“
• Be an active supporter of Vera House on social media. There's a platform for everyone — you can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.
• Contact us to let us know any other ideas you have for making a difference! Please email our Men's Outreach Program Coordinator. 

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Real Men Real Talk 

The Real Men Real Talk series expands the conversation of the 12 Men Model and is a space for men to continue anti-violence and prevention conversations, and discuss contemporary issues. Sessions are held at different points throughout the year.