The Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCADV) is preparing for our 25th Advocates’ Training & Networking Event! 

For decades, advocates and victim service providers have stood on the front lines of compassion and justice, facing challenges that would have discouraged anyone else- funding uncertainties, shifting political winds, even a global public health crisis. And yet, they continue to rise. With courage and unwavering commitment, they help survivors reclaim safety, dignity, and hope, ensuring rights are protected and accountability is pursued.

Advocates are the quiet champions of our communities, the steady hands and steadfast hearts guiding survivors toward healing. As we celebrate the 25th year of the Advocates’ Training & Networking Event, we honor this remarkable community of changemakers through our theme, “Still Standing, Still Strong: 25 Years of Power and Progress.” This milestone is not just a reflection of time passed, but of lives transformed through their dedication.

At this year’s event, we aim to inspire connection, spark bold conversations, and strengthen the collective efforts to address and prevent intimate partner violence, family violence, sexual violence, dating violence, and stalking. Just as importantly, we hope to nurture the well-being of those who do this life-changing work, supporting advocates as they continue to stand strong in an ever-evolving landscape of survivor support.

The Delaware Coalition Against Domestic Violence (DCADV) is seeking workshop proposals for our 25th Advocates’ Training & Networking Event!

When is the conference and where is it being held?
We are excited to return to the Atlantic Sands Hotel & Conference Center in Rehoboth Beach, DE on May 4-5, 2026!

Who attends the conference?
Advocates, survivors, victim service providers, offender treatment providers, preventionists, and other direct service professionals are typical attendees.  The majority of attendees are from Delaware, though out-of-state attendees are welcome!

What kinds of workshops are we looking for?
Workshop proposals being sought include, but are not limited to, the following topic areas:

*Advanced DV intervention/service skills

We have a number of seasoned providers who are looking for training beyond the basics

*Building effective collaborations across systems and services

What are some innovative ways we can work together across community-based and systems-based services to improve outcomes for victims/survivors-- especially when so many of us are doing more with less?

*Increasing access, services, and support for culturally-specific/underserved populations

How are you ensuring access for all survivors?

*Innovative approaches to policy, systems, and/or environmental change

Share how you’re working toward preventing or eliminating gender-based violence and how we can apply those strategies.

*Legal services/remedies for survivors (civil or criminal)

How can victims/survivors pursue justice in different ways? What rights and services are available to them? How can advocates and providers help?

*Family violence/non-intimate-partner violence

We know that domestic violence can reach beyond intimate partners. How can we better address those other dynamics?

*Best practices/core skills for direct service providers

There are so many foundational skills that are essential for advocates, counselors, therapists, hotline workers!

*Technology safety

Technology can be an asset to a safety plan, but also a threat. How can survivors be informed?

We recognize that the roots of domestic violence and trauma are grounded in issues of power and privilege.  We encourage workshops that use an intersectional, anti-oppression framework, and address issues like racial or gender equity.

Preference will be given to workshop proposals that:

• Enhance the skills of participants in building and/or strengthening collaborations and improving advocacy practices, policies, programming and services;
• Are interactive, learner-centered, and incorporate adult learning principles;
• Center the experiences of marginalized groups and how to provide more inclusive services;
• Align with the identified topics or conference theme

Submissions that advertise a product, service for profit, book or other effort meant to make money during your presentation will not be considered.

How many workshops will be selected?
The conference typically consists of two keynote presentations, 1-2 plenary sessions, and approximately 15 breakout sessions over two days.  This structure is subject to change.

How long is each presentation?
Breakout session workshops are 90 minutes, while keynotes and plenary sessions range from 45-60 minutes.

How many learners should I prepare for?
Keynote and plenary sessions are open to all attendees (115-125), but workshops will range from 35-50 attendees.

What will I receive for presenting?

• Limited financial assistance is available for travel and lodging expenses for presenters.
• Presenters are welcome to attend any sessions on the day of their presentation.  If a presenter wishes to attend the entire conference, a discounted registration rate will be available.
• A/V equipment (projector, computer, speakers, Internet, flip chart) will be provided.

How do I submit a proposal?

• Proposals are due to DCADV via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DCADVEVENT2026 by Sunday, January 11, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
• Submissions will also be accepted via email at training@dcadv.org.  However, using the proposal form is highly preferred wherever possible.

In your proposal, please include:

• Title of proposed workshop (10 words or less)
• Presenters’ name(s) and contact information (organization, title, address, email, phone)
• Biography of presenter(s) (150 words maximum)
• Workshop abstract (75-100 words to be used in conference materials if selected)
• Description of your presentation that discusses the content, main points to be covered, relevance to conference attendees, and how the session is unique from others that might address the same topic (300-500 words)
• 2-3 measurable session learning objectives
• Level of workshop (introductory; intermediate; advanced)

What happens after I submit my proposal?
Proposals will be reviewed by the Retreat Planning Advisory Committee in late January 2026.  All those who have submitted a proposal will be notified of their selection status in mid-February 2026.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Contact Courtney Winkler, DCADV's Training & Outreach Coordinator, at training@dcadv.org or 302-658-2958 ext. 115.

This program is funded through the Delaware Criminal Justice Council by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Family Violence Prevention and Services Program.