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Finance Director

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN) is seeking a dynamic team member to work closely with other SPAN teammates in its quest to end interpersonal violence within the community. Asking to join SPAN means you are committed to working toward fulfilling this mission.

THE POSITION:

The Finance Director is responsible for managing all of SPAN’S finance operations while ensuring adherence to GAAP and meeting non-profit compliance requirements. This position creates systems, processes, and policies to ensure staff and management are supported to achieve the goals of the organization. The Director leads implementation of strategic and operational plans, builds models, leads the annual audit, forecasts and produces ad hoc reports as needed to support the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Program Teams.

SCHEDULE AVAILABILITY:

Monday to Friday, 8am-4pm or 9am-5pm

Hybrid work schedule

COMPENSATION:

This is an exempt, salaried position. The salary is $82,000-$90,000 annually, depending on your qualifications. Compensation also includes our standard benefit package, including a medical plan, dental plan, generous vacation, sick leave, and 10 paid holidays. Reduced rate Eco-Pass, Simple IRA retirement plan with 2% agency contribution, and Employee Assistance Program.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

  • Financial Strategy & Planning
    • Partner with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to develop and oversee the organization’s annual operating budget, long-range financial plans, forecasts, and financial strategies that support SPAN’s mission and strategic priorities.
    • Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support organizational decision-making and long-term sustainability.
    • Monitor organizational financial performance and proactively identify risks, opportunities, and corrective actions.
  • Finance Operations
    • Provide strategic oversight of all financial operations, including accounting, accounts payable, billing, cash management, payroll, Simple IRA, financial reporting, and internal controls.
    • Lead the work of staff involved in billing, accounts payable and financial reporting.
    • Review accounting transactions and financial statements to ensure compliance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), grant requirements, and nonprofit accounting standards.
    • Develop, implement, and update finance/accounting policies, procedures, and protocols.
    • Coordinate the annual independent financial audit and IRS Form 990 preparation, serving as the primary liaison with external auditors and tax professionals.
    • Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and contractual financial requirements.
    • Ensure that resource development and implementation strategies align with organizational values of equity and inclusion, needs, and programmatic operations sufficient to ensure the financial health of the organization.
  • Grant & Contract Financial Management Fundraising and Grants Management
    • Develop grant and contract budgets in partnership with program and development staff.
    • Oversee grant financial tracking, invoicing, reporting, budget amendments, and reimbursement requests to ensure compliance with funder requirements.
    • Design and maintain financial compliance systems that support a diverse portfolio of government and private foundation grants.
    • Provide financial guidance during grant proposal development and throughout the grant lifecycle.
  • Organizational Operations
    • Collaborate with the Executive Director, Program Directors, and HR/Operations Coordinator to strengthen organizational systems, improve operational effectiveness, and support agency-wide initiatives.
    • Support strategic initiatives by evaluating financial implications of operational decisions and organizational growth.
    • Promote financial literacy throughout the organization by helping managers understand budgets, financial reports, and fiscal responsibilities.

WHAT YOU BRING TO US

Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience required. Master’s degree in business administration, organization management, or related field preferred. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and/or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation not required, but a plus.
Experience: Seven years of progressive experience in finance or accounting, including 5 years of experience in a lead finance role of a nonprofit or community organization that has grants from a variety of sources – including federal, state, local, and foundation grants.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Strong knowledge of accounting principles applicable to nonprofit organizations, including GAAP and Federal Funds requirements (2 CFR 200).
· Financial planning and analysis experience.
· Comprehensive knowledge of Microsoft Office, QuickBooks Online, and Salesforce. You also need to produce and meet deadlines in our fast-paced and changing environment and have proven written and oral communication skills.
· The desire and ability to work with passion, diligence, and humor; usually days, but nights and weekends if needed.

Application Process:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to hr@safehousealliance.org.

We like to receive electronic applications but will accept applications by US Mail to: SPAN, Attn: HR, 835 North St, Boulder CO 80304.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SPAN is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all team members and to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at SPAN are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual applicant qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, or belief, ancestry, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), family or parental status, or any other status protected by law. SPAN will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Crisis Intervention Coordinator

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN) is seeking a dynamic team member to work closely with other SPAN teammates in its quest to end interpersonal violence within the community. Asking to join SPAN means you are committed to working toward fulfilling this mission.

THE POSITION:

The Crisis Intervention Coordinator provides leadership and expertise in implementing SPAN’s crisis intervention strategies with survivors of violence, ensuring service delivery reflects SPAN’s commitment to culturally responsive, client-directed, and strengths-based care. They manage the operation of a 24/7 crisis and information hotline, ensuring callers receive high-quality, efficient, trauma-informed safety planning, information, and referrals.

The Crisis Intervention Coordinator provides hands-on training, support and ongoing skill development with a team of staff, interns, and volunteers responding to the crisis line.

The Crisis Intervention Coordinator additionally supports operations of SPAN’s 24/7 Shelter by providing leadership for high-risk cases and shelter emergencies. The role involves responding to high lethality referrals and supporting survivors with legal advocacy related needs. They strengthen coordinated community responses for survivors through strategic collaboration and troubleshooting, working to advance program and organizational goals of improving service delivery for those at elevated risk.

SCHEDULE AVAILABILITY:

8am-4pm Sunday through Thursday in person in Boulder. Shelter shifts include occasional holiday coverage. After a preliminary period of 3-6 months, this position will provide 1 week per month of on-call support to address urgent needs from crisis line responders and shelter staff.

COMPENSATION:

This is an exempt, salaried position. The salary range is $57,800 – $59,000, depending on your qualifications. An additional $100 per month ($1,200 per year) bilingual pay differential is available for proven Spanish language proficiency. Compensation also includes our standard benefit package, including a medical plan, dental plan, generous vacation, sick leave and holiday time off, reduced rate Eco-Pass, Simple IRA retirement plan with 2% agency contribution, and Employee Assistance Program.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

  • Crisis Line and Referral Management
    • Lead and coordinate services through SPAN’s crisis and information hotline for individuals
    experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence, abuse in later life, human trafficking, or
    other forms of abuse.
    • Work closely with SPAN departments to define and communicate internal referral criteria.
    • Ensure crisis line callers are connected efficiently with the most appropriate, trauma-informed
    services through screenings and needs assessments. Provide appropriate resource and referral
    information for when callers are not referred to internal SPAN programs.
    • Provide onboarding, training, and ongoing feedback to staff, interns, and volunteers responding
    to the crisis line. Ensure the team provides high quality crisis intervention, safety planning, and
    referrals. Train team members to follow procedures on confidentiality, primary aggressor
    screening, conflict checks, and documentation. Ensure staff, interns, and volunteers are trained
    on proper referral protocols, including providing all necessary client information for the
    receiving team to effectively support clients.
  • High Lethality Intervention and Legal Advocacy Support
    • Ensure immediate response to survivors at high risk of lethality or re-victimization who are
    referred through the Lethality Assessment Protocol or Domestic Violence High Risk Teams.
    Follow up on high lethality calls to the crisis line to provide immediate safety planning and
    referrals.
    • Lead implementation of high lethality response procedures and documentation, ensuring proper
    training of all crisis line personnel.
    • Ensure strong collaboration with Legal Advocacy and other SPAN programs for high lethality
    follow-up and survivor support.
    • Collaborate with survivors, advocacy staff, and legal team members to help assess legal
    advocacy needs and facilitate appropriate referrals to SPAN’s legal services or external
    community resources.
    • Support coordination and communication around legal referrals, including helping identify
    clients who may be eligible for internal legal services, providing information about available
    options, and connecting clients who may not meet eligibility criteria with alternative legal
    resources and community partners.
    • Support survivors with legal advocacy-related needs, including assisting with legal referrals,
    following up on referrals and coordination with legal service providers, and helping survivors
    navigate systems connected to protection orders, criminal justice processes, and other legal
    concerns.
    • Support the Legal Advocacy Director in maintaining positive working relationships with law
    enforcement, victim advocates, or court staff. Troubleshoot and improve referral systems.
  • Shelter Operations
    • Assist with crisis line coverage and overall shelter operations. Conduct intakes and screenings
    into shelter. Promote Shelter environment based on respect, inclusivity and nonviolence.
    • Participate in on-call rotation with the Director of Shelter & Housing and Shelter Manager (one
    week per month or as needed).
    • Collaborate with shelter staff and program teams to help track client admissions, occupancy,
    transitions, and exits in order to support continuity of care, coordinated service delivery, and
    accurate documentation.
    • Support ongoing communication regarding shelter census, client movement, transition planning,
    and follow-up needs to help ensure survivors are connected to appropriate resources, advocacy,
    safety planning, and next steps as they move through shelter services.
    • Oversee processes for emergency hotel stays and residential client screenings. Work closely
    with residential shelter advocates to ensure smooth transitions as clients complete intakes and
    begin residential stays at shelter.
    • Schedule 24/7 coverage among hotline responders.
  • Community Outreach & Collaboration
    • Participate in multidisciplinary community meetings related to high lethality response and
    prevention.
    • Maintain and disseminate to team members accurate details on community resource and
    referral information.
    • Coordinate with service providers and community partners to deliver comprehensive support
    services for survivors.
    • Participate in outreach and training efforts to increase awareness of dynamics of violence and
    crisis intervention services.
    • Represent the organization at community meetings and professional networks.
    • Expand partnerships with community organizations serving marginalized populations.

WHAT YOU BRING TO US

Education: 4-year degree in Human Services or in a related field, or any equivalent combination of
education and/or experience.
Experience: Two years of progressive experience supporting trauma survivors in a crisis response
environment plus one year of program management.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Requires strong working knowledge of the dynamics of intimate partner violence (IPV) and trauma-informed, survivor-centered service delivery. Knowledge of or experience working with issues at the intersections of IPV, race, class, gender, ability, and sexual orientation stronglypreferred.

Requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and
tasks. Proven computer skills, including MS Office, are necessary. Salesforce or other database experience
preferred. Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. Proven written and oral
communication skills in Spanish are strongly preferred.

Application Process:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to hr@safehousealliance.org.

We like to receive electronic applications but will accept applications by US Mail to: SPAN, Attn: HR, 835 North St, Boulder CO 80304.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SPAN is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all team members and to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at SPAN are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual applicant qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, or belief, ancestry, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), family or parental status, or any other status protected by law. SPAN will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

Housing and Shelter Advocate

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN) is seeking a dynamic team member to work closely with other SPAN teammates in its quest to end interpersonal violence within the community. Asking to join SPAN means you are committed to working toward fulfilling this mission.

THE POSITION:
The Housing and Shelter Advocate delivers trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and client-directed crisis intervention, safety planning, case management, and advocacy for survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence through SPAN’s Transitional Housing Programs. This role advances self-sufficiency and upward mobility by delivering comprehensive services that help residential and non residential clients achieve stability and maintain long-term housing success. The Housing and Shelter Advocate maintains community resources, supports crisis line operations, fosters a respectful, nonviolent shelter environment, and advances social justice initiatives that benefit survivors and their children.

SCHEDULE AVAILABILITY:

• 8am-4pm or 1pm-9pm
• In person in Boulder
• Shifts may include days, evenings or weekends, with occasional holiday coverage

COMPENSATION:

This is a non-exempt, full time position. The salary range is $44,000 – $49,000, depending on your qualifications. An additional $100 per month ($1,200 per year) bilingual pay differential is available for proven Spanish language proficiency. Compensation also includes our standard benefit package, including a medical plan, dental plan, generous vacation, sick leave and holiday time off, reduced rate Eco-Pass, Simple IRA retirement plan with 2% agency contribution, and Employee Assistance Program.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

  • Housing Advocacy and Case Management
    • Conduct comprehensive housing assessments and provide ongoing advocacy for individuals
    experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence, abuse in later life, human trafficking, or
    other forms of abuse.
    • Support clients in identifying and securing safe, appropriate housing. Assist with application
    processes and help address barriers to housing stability, including obtaining identification and
    documentation, accessing legal advocacy, and building positive rental history.
    • Advocate on behalf of survivors with landlords and property managers, including providing
    service verification letters and support with lease termination requests.
    • Develop individualized case management plans that address immediate needs while promoting
    long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
    • Assist clients in meeting basic needs by providing information, community referrals, and support
    with resource navigation and access to public benefits.
    • Maintain consistent engagement through regular mobile check-ins to monitor progress and
    provide ongoing support.
  • Shelter and Crisis Line Operations
    • Assist with coverage of 24/7 crisis and information hotline.
    • Conduct shelter screenings and intakes, and support advocacy needs for residential clients.
    • Promote a Shelter environment based on respect, inclusivity and nonviolence.
    • Provide support with maintaining the facility by cleaning, taking out trash, and completing room
    turnovers.
  • Collaboration
    • Represent the organization and department at community meetings. Build new and manage
    existing relationships with community partners.
    • Attend committee meetings to foster collaborative partnerships that support housing stability
    among survivors. Collaborate with local housing authorities and other affordable housing
    providers regarding availability and application processes.
    • Work with team members in developing and facilitating skill building and economic
    empowerment workshops for clients; collaborate with community organizations to support
    workshops through education and/or resources for survivors.
    • Participate in outreach and training efforts to increase awareness of dynamics of violence and
    address barriers to accessing SPAN services.
    • Collaborate with internal departments to streamline access to programming.

WHAT YOU BRING TO US

Education: 4-year degree in Human Services or in a related field, or any
equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Experience: 1 year of progressive experience working in case management and individual advocacy related to affordable housing, landlord/tenant issues, or housing programs.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Requires strong working knowledge of the dynamics of intimate partner violence (IPV) and trauma-informed, survivor-centered service delivery. Knowledge of or experience working with issues at the intersections of IPV, race, class, gender, ability, and sexual orientation strongly preferred. Requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize work and tasks. Proven computer skills, including MS Office, are necessary. Salesforce or other database experience preferred. Must be able to work independently and as part of a team. Proven written and oral communication skills in Spanish are strongly preferred.

Application Process:

Please submit a resume and cover letter to hr@safehousealliance.org.

We like to receive electronic applications but will accept applications by US Mail to: SPAN, Attn: HR, 835 North St, Boulder CO 80304.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

SPAN is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all team members and to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at SPAN are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual applicant qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, or belief, ancestry, age, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), family or parental status, or any other status protected by law. SPAN will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.

On-Call Shelter Advocate

Position Overview

The On-Call Shelter Advocate provides coverage on an on-call basis for a confidential, 27-bed emergency shelter for survivors & their children impacted by domestic violence. Advocates provide advocacy, support, and crisis intervention for shelter residents and crisis line callers. The position helps promote a shelter environment grounded in inclusivity, respect and nonviolence. On-call advocates are contacted to provide shift coverage as needed. Possible shifts include daytime or evening (4-8 hours) or overnight (12 hours). Shift coverage may be during weekdays or on weekends. Time requirement varies; flexibility is appreciated.

Responsibilities include
  • Crisis intervention, advocacy, and support to shelter residents and crisis line callers.
  • Provides trauma-informed, client-directed, culturally responsive advocacy and safety planning in person and over the phone with clients at high risk of lethality or serious harm.
  • Assures integrity of shelter security, residents’ safety and overall shelter well-being.
  • Supports advocates with client follow-up, case management, and recordkeeping.
  • Responsible for appearance and cleanliness of the shelter (for example, laundry, trash), and replenishment of food and supplies.
  • Helps build excellent relationships with community partners such as law enforcement and other agencies who make referrals to SPAN.
  • Supports an organizational environment based on respect, the utilization of ethical communication, and adherence to the organization’s non-negotiables.
  • Participates in On-Call Staff meetings and in supervision with Director of Shelter and Housing Programs.
  • Maintains case files, records and time sheets.
Compensation

$20.00 Hourly.
Additional $1.00 per hour for Spanish Bilingual proficiency.
No Benefits.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent life/work experience required.
  • At least six months of crisis intervention experience (paid or unpaid); Residential experience helpful.
  • Experience & knowledge of social justice issues, particularly violence against survivors of domestic violence & their children.
  • Spanish bilingual preferred.
To Apply

Send resumé and cover letter to hr@safehousealliance.org or to Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence, 835 North Street, Boulder, CO 80304.

Independent Contractors Needed: Spanish Bilingual Attorneys

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence is seeking dynamic individuals to take part in an opportunity to support the SPAN Legal Advocacy program in its quest to assist survivors of interpersonal violence in our community.

Contract Opportunity

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence coordinates the Lawyers for Victims Program (LFVP) which provides attorney representation at permanent protection order hearings for victims of family violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in Boulder and Broomfield counties. LFVP clients have been granted a temporary protection order in county court and are likely to meet the legal criteria for a permanent protection order. LFVP is designed to increase access to and provision of direct legal services. Victims who find themselves in need of a civil order of protection frequently face the formidable task of confronting their abuser at the permanent protection order hearing. Access to the assistance, advice, and representation of an attorney fluent in a client’s primary language isa critical component to establishing ongoing safety. Spanish Bilingual Contract Attorneys participating in LFVP fill a gap for clients tasked with navigating a legal system that is inaccessible to clients with limited English proficiency.

Contract Rate & Time Commitment

SPAN contracts with local attorneys to provide specific, limited services for a flat fee per case. Attorneys representing clients who do not speak English as their primary language receive $900 per case; representation for monolingual English-speaking clients is compensated at $1000 per case. The differential in compensation is in recognition of the additional labor required of Bilingual Attorneys to provide inclusive and affirming service to clients in their native language.

Upon acceptance of a case referral, the Attorney agrees to contact the client within 24hours, and to meet with the client on at least one occasion (virtually or in person) at least 24hours prior to the hearing. Case volume and attorney availability fluctuate throughout the year. LFVP Contract Attorneys choose how many referrals they accept; on average, LFVP Contract Attorneys take one case in a 2-month period. In 2021, approximately 10 Spanish-speaking clients sought services through LFVP. For the purposes of this program, a case will commence upon acceptance of a referral from the LFVP Managing Attorney and continue until either the conclusion of the permanent protection order hearing or the removal of the case from county court.

About You
  • You have experience litigating civil issues related to domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
  • You have proven written and oral communication skills in Spanish.
  • You’ve progressive experience supporting survivors of trauma and understand dynamics of violence which are enacted at interpersonal, institutional, and societal levels.
  • You’re committed to fighting for survivors, especially immigrant, limited English proficiency, QTBIPOC, and LGBTQI+ victims of violence.
  • You are authorized to practice law in Colorado and carry liability insurance.
  • You have excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, you can communicate with a variety of audiences, you appreciate the details, and you’re organized.

SPAN is looking for passionate, dedicated employees to work in our Emergency Shelter and Outreach Offices.

Please note that a combination of education, work and life experience may be considered in lieu of other requirements.

SPAN provides opportunities for ongoing professional development and training and is an EEOA employer with a strong commitment to Affirmative Action. People of Color, LGBTQ+ folks, and people with different levels of abilities are encouraged to apply.

About SPAN

Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence (SPAN) is a human rights organization committed to ending violence against adults, youth, and children through support, advocacy, education, and community organizing. Operating since 1979, SPAN is the only organization serving Boulder, western Broomfield, smaller towns, and unincorporated Boulder County, designed to provide shelter and advocacy for victims of interpersonal violence. SPAN is dedicated to the promotion of social justice, diversity, equity, inclusivity, peace and non-violence for all individuals and their families.

SPAN Culture

SPAN team members are dedicated and work in a fast-paced environment with full days – which may include evenings and weekends for Shelter shifts – yet remain committed to a healthy work/life balance. While SPAN expects work to be taken seriously, it also knows the importance of having fun and the value of enjoying the work.

Our Organizational Goals

Foster Organizational Excellence
Provide meaningful and effective support and resources to adults, children, and youth impacted by interpersonal violence.

Violence Prevention Initiatives
Implement initiatives that promote safety, dignity, and liberation for all people.

People Centric
Engage team members, individuals, groups, policy makers, and the community at large in efforts that promote economic, racial, and social justice and an atmosphere where team members and clients are valued.

Inclusive
Team members are welcoming, inviting, authentic, outward-facing, and visible to all audiences, voices, and stories.

Guidelines for Board, Staff, Interns & Volunteers

Non-Negotiables for SPAN

The primary expectation of all SPAN staff, volunteers, interns and board members is a willingness to take responsibility for their own responses and reactions to any given situation and to engage in a process that is ongoing and open to learning and feedback. The following “Non-Negotiables” are intended to help clarify the philosophical goals of the agency and serve as the baseline criteria from which we assess levels of appropriateness for working within the agency. Political education and active critical thinking are necessary components of our work.

  1. We share a basic understanding that
    • violence against women is systemic;
    • women are an oppressed group; and
    • oppression in any form (racism, sexism, heterosexism, classism, cissexism, ageism, ableism etc.) is an act of violence.
  2. We acknowledge intimate partner violence as an action taken primarily against women.
  3. We do not blame the victim in any way for victimization. This includes:
    • respect for all people regardless of race, gender, religion, culture, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status or class;
    • an understanding of the use of violence that considers patterns of behavior, motive and impact, as opposed to a single act; and
    • an approach that is rooted in advocacy as defined by the client.
  4. We continuously work to recognize and challenge our own personal beliefs. This requires:
    • an ongoing process of becoming aware of our own prejudices and privileges;
    • constant effort made toward avoiding projection of personal beliefs about a client’s and/or their children’s circumstances, or assuming that we know what is best for them;
    • the responsibility to be aware of our judgments and reactions when others disagree or hold different beliefs from our own.
    • a willingness to share personal ideas and to receive feedback and challenges on these ideas;
    • the responsibility to challenge oppression and privilege in others and ourselves; and
    • full accountability for our words and actions.
  5. We demonstrate willingness to relinquish/share power and privilege. We are committed to seeking understanding about our experiences both as oppressor and oppressed.
  6. We have a commitment to ethical communication in all of our interpersonal encounters. It is our goal to support each other in this process.
  7. We value and are committed to social change through activism and community organizing.
  8. We challenge and avoid the use of blaming, disrespectful or violent language in our daily lives.
  9. We strive to ensure that our actions, with clients, each other and the community at-large are consistent with our stated beliefs.
  10. We believe that the use of any form of violence to establish power and control is not acceptable.

In summary, the Non-Negotiables reflect a process that occurs on a continuum. There is no finish line or ‘final destination’ in following these guidelines. Instead, we recognize the fluidity of learning and change. There are few role models for the implementation of these and similar philosophical goals. We are committed to participating in the process reflected in these “Non-Negotiables” to the best of our ability.

Ethical Communication

Ethical Communication has evolved into a practice that incorporates feminist, social activist, theological, multiracial and recovery-program perspectives, and it addresses issues of oppression and empowerment. While it is a useful means for resolving conflict, Ethical Communication is also a practice for everyday encounters. It reflects a social change paradigm, and it provides a professional standard by which to measure interactions with colleagues. It is a method that can work in a hierarchical organizational structure, provided that an abuse of power is not present. The practice of Ethical Communication maximizes opportunities for open and direct interaction within organizations while minimizing the potential for blow-ups and damaging incidents.

Social Justice Principles of Ethical Communication
  • Direct communication and resolution are primary goals
  • As members of a group, we cultivate open personal agendas vs. secret agendas
  • No one is isolated or denied a process when challenges arise
  • We are accountable – individually and as a group – for the impact of unethical alliance building and power blocs on the group
  • Conflict and precisely focused anger can be instructive experiences and at times essential to reach true resolution
  • We strive to become aware of and take responsible action for power differentials (formal and informal power)
  • We notice and are accountable for patterns reflecting privilege
  • We remain open to examining own beliefs and perceptions without indulging in self-consciousness

Good communication skills can take a lifetime to develop: how do we articulate our views clearly, hear another’s viewpoint, and engage in disagreement in a way that is respectful and direct? Additionally, while conflict is a daily occurrence and can prompt us into action, how we respond to it, our motives and our methods for handling it is the ethical challenge. Developing facilitation skills in Ethical Communication can lead to resolution among individuals and groups. Learning to give feedback in a direct, honest, and respectful way can improve our ability to receive and incorporate feedback for self-improvement. By taking responsibility to ensure a safe (though not always comfortable!) group environment, we are more able to take personal risks in challenging each other and in sharing new ideas.

When we model ethical standards of communication in our daily lives, we challenge ourselves to weigh and reevaluate the meaning of our words. When we hold every viewpoint as valid, even if we disagree with it, we dismantle the entities that seek to silence us. By focusing on the issue or behavior rather than the person, we receive opportunities to expand our vision by seeing things from more than one angle. By imparting respect and empathy when confronting an opposing viewpoint, we cultivate the wisdom and patience necessary for sustaining us through social struggles. By incorporating these skills daily within our professional and personal lives, we model behavior that is at the heart of social change – healing through action. Through ethical interactions, we broaden and strengthen the web that binds us to our common humanity.

These Guidelines are part of a larger workbook and training program on Ethical Communication, developed by the staff at Safehouse Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence. For presentation information or to purchase Ethical Communication materials, please contact Ashley Bianchi, Training and Engagement Coordinator, at 303-449-8623, or ashleyb@safehousealliance.org.

Ethical Communication Checklist
  • GO INWARD and take responsibility for your own reactions and personal growth.
  • MAKE a COMMITMENT to yourself, the other person and the group that you will reach resolution to the conflict. This is different than wanting to prove that you’re right. You might want to discuss what “resolution” would look like for each of you.
  • Go DIRECTLY to the SOURCE of your concerns. This eliminates gossip, group fragmentation and putting people in the middle of a situation that has nothing to do with them.
  • Use “I” STATEMENTS, CLEAR LANGUAGE and as many SPECIFIC EXAMPLES as possible. This might require taking some time to first determine what the key issues are.
  • BE PREPARED to take the TIME to work through it. If resolution is not attained in the first meeting, then make a commitment to ongoing discussion.
  • Allow yourself be CHALLENGED by new ideas. CONSTRUCTIVE criticism is ethical. Debate and disagreement can be healthy. It might not always feel comfortable, but as long as it’s done in the spirit of respect, it’s an opportunity for you to GROW (…and it can be done gently, too)!
  • Keep the GOAL of Ethical Communication in mind: resolvable conflict and unity. Reaching resolution creates power and cohesion in a group committed to social change.
  • PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!

SPAN's Core Values

SPAN is based out of Boulder, Colorado, on land known to the Arapaho as “where it is steep”, and as part of Turtle Island, a name given to North America by many Native peoples. The Hinóno’éí (Arapaho), Tsistsistas (Cheyenne), Diné (Navajo), and Nuciu (Ute) are among the many tribes that are connected to this land. The history and traditions prior to colonization is beautiful and complex, and we honor their teachings and ongoing connection to this land as an essential part of SPAN’s Core Values. According to Diné teachings, “healing is achieved through the process of strengthening our ties to the land, practicing our Native cultures and languages, and treating one another with respect. We believe these values are mutually self-reinforcing by nature.” (https://utahdinebikeyah.org/)

We recognize everyone comes to SPAN with their own unique experiences, and it is not expected that everyone will know the concepts and terms in this document. It is expected that everyone engaged with SPAN remain committed to conversation, asking questions, making mistakes and being part of a collective dedicated to ongoing learning and growth.

SPAN acknowledges that violence is rooted in a history of exploitation via colonization. Interpersonal violence/domestic violence (IPV/DV) takes place within and alongside oppressive institutions and ideologies devised to maintain power and control over historically marginalized individuals and communities. Our work preventing violence and supporting those who go through IPV/DV acknowledges the unique experiences survivors have as it relates to their identities, for both the strengths and challenges they offer.

For SPAN to provide accessible services and foster healthy community connections, we recognize the need to continuously work on centering the knowledge and experiences of Queer and Trans, Black, Indigenous, People of Color (QTBIPOC). This requires intentional grassroots efforts to dismantle and disrupt the burdens and stressors created by white supremacy to the lives of all survivors. Examples of this includes accessing justice within and outside the U.S. legal system; having access to safe and affordable housing; making a living wage; bringing greater awareness via education, outreach, and fundraising efforts; and promoting holistic post-traumatic growth that honors and respects survivors’ wisdom and lived experiences.

The work of community building, transformative justice, and anti-violence organizing has been taking place across many cultures and generations. Inspiration for SPAN’s Core Values includes but is not limited to: the US Civil Rights Movement, the Delano grape strike organized by Filipino-American and Mexican-American farmworkers, indigenous environmental activism of Latin America, the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement, liberation theology as taught by leaders such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Óscar Romero, the Essie Justice Project, and individuals such as Prentis Hemphill, Grace Lee Boggs, Mariame Kaba, Paulo Freire, bell hooks, Audre Lorde, Berta Cáceres, Betita Martínez, SPAN community members, among countless others.

These Core Values were created to guide and sustain working relationships within the SPAN community, which is made up of clients, staff, interns, volunteers, board members, and collaborative partners. We value the knowledge that comes from the lived experiences of individuals accessing services and providing support at SPAN. As noted by the Essie Justice Project, wisdom exists at the intersections of compounded pressure.

We are intentional in efforts to understand what it means to re-Indigenize and decolonize our work and interactions with one another to create and sustain connection and joy. This is in addition to the responsibility of disrupting and resisting the oppressive systems that SPAN community members interact with. This includes but is not limited to white supremacy, cissexism, patriarchy, heteronormativity, ableism, classism, and oppression based on perceived country of origin and/or religion.

Social location does not predetermine experience. It does, however, guide SPAN’s efforts to consider the strengths of an individual and community, as well as oppressive barriers they may face. Through all our programs (Education, Legal Advocacy, Counseling, Shelter, Housing & Economic Justice, Development, Human Resources & Administration) we strive to be:

  • Survivor and Youth Directed: Providing voluntary services, meeting people where they are at and having their wishes guide advocacy & education efforts.
  • Trauma-Informed: Recognizing the toll of daily lived experiences of oppression and the complex trauma survivors of DV/IPV experience. Emphasizing humility, compassion, and empathy to foster post-traumatic growth within individuals and in community.
  • Strengths-Based: Appreciating the resiliency, self-advocacy efforts, and tools people acquire to support their survival and self-defined success. Building upon unique strengths instead of assimilating to a one-size-fits-all approach to advocacy or education.

SPAN’s Core Values were written to guide communication and action in all settings at SPAN in order to build a strong community. These values are integral in disrupting abuses of power. We are in an ongoing process of creating and implementing community-based practices that provide opportunities for non-punitive collective repair, healing, understanding, respect, and sustenance, all of which require:

Accountability: Acknowledging harm as well as creating an environment where accountability is modeled and expected. It
requires effort to not only understand power and privilege but to step into or relinquish power based on identities.

Receptivity: Providing feedback (especially when harm has occurred) takes emotional labor on the part of the person who has been harmed. Receptivity is a willingness to hear and receive feedback, with acknowledgement of the labor that went into it, and a clear effort to change oppressive behavior.

Transparency: Transparency around decisions impacting this community help cultivate a sense of trust and build collective accountability

Vulnerability: Care of this community requires each person to show up authentically and ensure historically marginalized individuals and communities are not solely carrying the burden of truth telling. “Mistakes” are expected and necessary to illuminate opportunities for changed behavior.

Acknowledgement
This was written by a group of staff and interns at SPAN and was most recently updated on January 5, 2021, during a Transformative Justice group that has been meeting weekly following the police killing of George Floyd on May 25, 2020. This group began by contemplating the role SPAN, as a nonviolence organization, could play in reimagining how to build peaceful communities not dependent on state violence. Our conversations turned quickly inward in recognition of a need to look at SPAN’s own internal values, processes, and commitment to collective repair. The Black Lives Matter amplification and challenges of a global pandemic were the backdrop to this iteration of SPAN’s Core Values, which we
acknowledge will continue to evolve