Events & Programs
April 1-30, 2026
**Virtual
Join the Color It Blue “Move”ment
This April, take a small step that creates a powerful ripple by joining Brave Step’s annual Virtual Walk/Run, part of our Color It Blue “Move”ment. When we move together, we show survivors and loved ones they are not alone while helping communities become more informed, compassionate and ready to prevent harm. Whether you walk, run or hike, every step matters.
April 1-30, 2026
**Virtual
Change Begins with YOU. Color It Blue this April.
Color It Blue is Brave Step’s annual campaign during Sexual Assault Awareness Month. It’s a visible way to show support for survivors and help build awareness and prevention.
Your blue moment can spark something bigger: start one conversation, share a resource and/or invite someone else to Color It Blue.
Take the Next Step. Small steps. Powerful ripples.
April 17, 2026
12 p.m. ET
**Virtual
Community Without Pressure: Healing Together, Not Alone
This session explores peer support, safe navigation of group spaces, and the idea that community can be a resource rather than a requirement. Recognizing that loneliness is increasingly present in participant applications, the session emphasizes survivor autonomy and choice-based connection, supporting healing while fostering belonging and shared humanity.
Presented by Dr. Natalie Ricciutti Ph.D., LPCC-OH, LCASA, NC
April 21, 2026
6:30 p.m.
**In-Person
Peer Support Group
Those who identify as a woman and are affected by sexual violence can participate in a free survivor-led support group called Courageous Corner. Peer support group is offered to marginalized genders including women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women.
April 24, 2026
12 p.m. ET
**Virtual
Navigating News & Media: Staying Informed Without Harm
This session presents how trauma and current national events intersect, particularly for survivors of sexual abuse and violence. Dr. Engel will review signs of retraumatization and overwhelm in media engagement while offering guidelines for increasing effective strategies for news consumption while prioritizing healing, nervous system regulation and personal empowerment. Survivors, loved ones and community members are all welcome to attend.
Presented by Dr. Emily C. Engel Psy.D., PLLC
April 25, 2026
11 a.m.
**Matthews United Methodist Church
Join Brave Step for an In-person Walk/Run
We’d love for you, your family and your friends to join us for a casual Walk/Run gathering on Saturday, April 25. We’ll meet at 11:00 a.m. at Matthews United Methodist Church (801 S. Trade St., Matthews) and head out on the greenway for a walk or run beginning at 11:30 a.m.
For anyone who wants to keep the connection going afterward, we’ll continue on to Seaboard Brewing for a relaxed, bring‑your‑own‑dollars fellowship.
April 28, 2026
7 p.m. ET
**Virtual
Brave Step Ally Workshop: Level 1
Becoming an ally doesn’t require a title — just a willingness to learn, listen, and take meaningful action. Brave Step’s Ally Workshop: Level 1 is an empowering, introductory experience designed for family, friends, community members and anyone who wants to better understand sexual violence and support survivors with compassion and confidence.
April 30, 2026
12 p.m. ET
**Virtual
Intimacy After Trauma
Participants will learn about the impact of sexual trauma on the body and mind, including how it affects desire, boundaries, and trust. Attendees will learn to understand their personal needs, and explore what healthy, consensual intimacy can look like on their own terms. The focus is on empowerment, self-awareness, and fostering growth in reclaiming one’s sexual agency.
Presented by Ceara Corry, LCSW.
May 7, 2026
6:30 p.m.
**Virtual
Courageous Conversations for Men
Join a monthly, virtual support group created specifically for male survivors of sexual violence. This judgment-free space is designed to foster recovery, resilience and hope. Whether you’re early in your recovery journey or further along, you belong here.
May 6, 2026
6:30 p.m.
**Virtual
Peer Support Group
Those who identify as a woman and are affected by sexual violence can participate in a free survivor-led support group called Courageous Corner. Peer support group is offered to marginalized genders including women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women.
May 14, 2026
6-8 p.m. ET
**Virtual
QPR Suicide Prevention Training
Brave Step has teamed up with Ericka Ellis-Stewart to offer a QPR suicide prevention training. QPR — Question, Persuade, Refer — is a two-hour virtual training that gives everyday people the tools to recognize when someone may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, and the confidence to step in.
May 19, 2026
6:30 p.m.
**In-Person
Peer Support Group
Those who identify as a woman and are affected by sexual violence can participate in a free survivor-led support group called Courageous Corner. Peer support group is offered to marginalized genders including women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women.
June 2, 2026
6:30-8:30 p.m. ET
**Virtual
For Family, Friends & Partners: Loved Ones Group
Brave Step’s Loved Ones group returns June 2–July 7 with a six‑week virtual series designed for family, friends and intimate partners of adult survivors of sexual violence. This supportive, trauma‑informed space helps loved ones deepen understanding, strengthen connection and build practical skills for walking alongside a survivor while also caring for themselves. Whether you’re new to this journey or seeking continued guidance, you’re welcome here.
June 3, 2026
6:30 p.m.
**Virtual
Peer Support Group
Those who identify as a woman and are affected by sexual violence can participate in a free survivor-led support group called Courageous Corner. Peer support group is offered to marginalized genders including women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that centers the experiences of women.
June 27, 2026
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
**Virtual
Peer Leader Training
Join us for Brave Step’s Peer Leader Training, a virtual, skills‑focused session designed to equip emerging peer leaders with the tools needed to foster safe, supportive and empowering group environments. Participants will strengthen facilitation skills, deepen trauma‑informed practices and build confidence in guiding peer spaces with clarity and care. This training is ideal for those preparing to lead Brave Step peer groups.
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