The Circle
EMPOWERING YOUTH FOR A BETTER TOMORROW
The Circle’s programs follow children and youth throughout their development. Exposure to messages that build upon one another from elementary through to high school means consistent messaging and practice of skills to build healthy relationships.
Committed to fostering respect, courage, diversity, connection and innovation.
The Circle, formerly SWOVA, has worked for more than two decades to address violence in all forms. Founded as a ‘wake-up call’ for action against gender-based violence, The Circle has become a champion of information on individual rights and protection and has developed education programs and awareness initiatives to address discrimination and violence based on gender, race, sexual orientation, age and ability.
The Circle’s youth programs encourage young people to challenge assumptions and learn skills that foster healthy, equal relationships. The Circle believes that all human beings should be free to develop their personal abilities and make choices without the limitations set by stereotypes, rigid gender roles and prejudices.
We envision inclusive and gender-equitable communities living violence-free.
About Us
We are committed to fostering inclusive, gender-equitable and violence-free communities. Learn more!
Programs
Explore our programs for youth and educators: Healthy Relationships, Training, Community Events and Awareness.
Impact
See The Circle victories and discover the depth and breadth of our work.
OUR VALUES
RESPECT
To treat each other with consideration and dignity, fostering self-respect and respect for others.
Courage
To speak, act, and advocate for what is right, working for social justice and persevering against social injustice.
Diversity
To include different voices and perspectives with an understanding and appreciation for all.
Connection
To seek opportunities for collaboration and effective partnerships that foster caring and belonging in communities.
Innovation
To be flexible and responsive in addressing the unique and changing needs of the communities we serve.
Supporting and Allied Organizations
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Love & Motivation
Program Participants in 2019-20
News & Events
Announcing the ShowYourTruth Youth Video Contest
SWOVA is thrilled to announce the ShowYourTruth Youth Video Contest! We're inviting youth in three age categories to send us a video about what matters to them. We want to hear about issues that youth face, whether it's bullying, peer pressure, assumptions, body...
Thankful & Still Elated
All of us SWOVA — board, staff, and facilitators — were delighted with and very grateful for the generosity and support that 100+ Women Who Care showed SWOVA Community Development and Research Society at its February 24 meeting. As the number of nominations grow in...
We’re Rebranding!
SWOVA is rebranding! Since 1996, our organization’s full name has been “SWOVA Community Development and Research Society.” We continue firmly rooted in the original purposes reflected in our 1996 Constitution, but in mid-2020, we hope to announce a new name for our...
Our Funders & Supporters
Become a Friend of The Circle
Sign up for the occasional email from us and become a friend of The Circle! We send you updates about upcoming events and opportunities from The Circle. You’ll receive one email per month—occasionally two!