What is AVP?

Through an international network of local chapters, AVP facilitators — all trained volunteers — offer workshops in prisons as well as in the community for all who would like to reduce the level of unresolved conflict in their lives and the lives of those around them.

AVP offers Basic, Advanced, and Training-for-Facilitator Workshops. Workshops are fast-paced, weaving together interactive exercises, facilitated discussions, role plays, humor and games.

AVP is:

An experiential program, helping people change their lives.
A community program, offering a new approach for community groups, social service agencies, schools, youth organizations and all who would like to participate.
A prison program, helping inmates learn new skills and attitudes that lead to fulfilling and crime-free lives.
AVP builds upon a spiritual base of respect and caring for self and others. Though founded by Quakers, AVP draws participants and trainers from all religions, races, sexual identity, and walks of life.
AVP California does not discriminate in any of its policies, appointments, or other activities on account of race, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ethnicity, immigration status, criminal history, or religious conviction.

AVP Around the World

AVP, in California and around the world, is decentralized - often called a 'Starfish' organization, because it is coordinated by volunteers who work without a hierarchy or central coordination. Workshops are organized by facilitators locally. At the same time, facilitators and councils (groups of facilitators in a particular region) around the world benefit greatly from sharing experiences and ideas with each other. AVP California, AVP USA, AVP International, and many national chapters like AVP Britain and AVP Kenya help keep facilitators connected and AVP workshop content consistent around the world. AVP USA organizes an annual gathering and AVP International organizes a bi-annual gathering for facilitators.

In the USA, most states have at least some AVP presence. In some states, AVP is very active with many local councils, and dozens or hundreds of workshops per year. In other states, the AVP presence may be only a few facilitators working in one or a few prisons and/or community settings.

Internationally, AVP is present in around 40 countries. Please visit the AVP International website for more information.