Prevention and Empowerment

Prevention and Empowerment Services (PAE) advocates, empowers, and provides learning opportunities that inspire individuals throughout West Michigan to create safer, equitable communities and to aid in the prevention of sexual violence and domestic abuse.


Prevention and Empowerment seeks to prevent sexual violence by examining and addressing root causes — social norms, attitudes, and beliefs — that contribute to the normalization and perpetration of sexual violence, power and control over others, and systems of oppression. Our programs align with best practices to include strategies at the individual, relationship, community, and societal levels.

Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team of Kent County

The YWCA West Central Michigan participates on the Sexual Assault Prevention Action Team (SAPAT) of Kent County, a coalition formed by local organizations whose ultimate goal is the elimination of sexual violence in our community.

To learn more about SAPAT, check out their website.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Every April, the YWCA joins the National Sexual Violence Resource Center and voices around the country for Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). The goal of SAAM is to raise public awareness and educate communities on how to prevent sexual violence.

We know that one month alone is not enough to completely eradicate sexual violence. However, the attention that SAAM generates each April is an opportunity to energize and expand prevention efforts throughout the year.

If you are interested in hosting a SAAM event at your agency, business, or school call 616.459.4681.