Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Check out the list of events below supported by the GVSU Violence Prevention Task Force. Events are happening on the Valley and City Campus.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2026
October
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). During DVAM, victim advocates, allied professionals, survivors of abuse, their loved ones, and the surrounding community come together to mourn the lives lost to domestic violence, celebrate the progress that has been made to end this epidemic, and connect with others working to create change.
Thursday October 1
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Kickoff
Where: Kirkhof Lobby
When: 11am-1pm
Join the Center for Health and Well-being and the Violence Prevention Task Force as we kick off Domestic Violence Awareness Month at GVSU! This event is an opportunity to learn more about domestic violence prevention, healthy relationships, consent, and the resources available to support students.
Stop by to connect with campus and community partners, learn how you can contribute to a culture of respect and safety, and discover opportunities to participate in DVAM activities throughout October. Together, we can promote awareness, support, and healthy relationships across our campus community.
Monday October 5,12,19 & 26
Mindful Movement Yoga
When: 8:15pm
Where: Dance Studio
Unwind, release stress, and reconnect with yourself during this relaxing yoga session, offered in collaboration with Recreation and Wellness.
As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this class highlights the importance of self-care, respect, and healthy relationships.
All experience levels are welcome!
FREE Class!
Wednesday October 7, 14, 21, 28
Sunrise Salutations
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When: 7:30am-8:30am
Where: Dance Studio
Start your day with slow, intentional movement, mindful breathwork, and yoga poses designed to build strength and balance while calming your mind.
Offered in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this session invites you to reconnect with yourself and reflect on the importance of self-care, respect, and healthy relationships.
All experience levels are welcome!
FREE Class!
Thursday October 8, 15, 22, 29
Sunrise Salutations
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When: 7:30am-8:30am
Where: Dance Studio
Start your day with slow, intentional movement, mindful breathwork, and yoga poses designed to build strength and balance while calming your mind.
Offered in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this session invites you to reconnect with yourself and reflect on the importance of self-care, respect, and healthy relationships.
All experience levels are welcome!
FREE Class!
Tuesday October 13th
Unbroken Wings: A Vigil of Remembrance
When: 5:00pm-6:30pm
Where: The Blue Footbridge in Grand Rapids, MI.
Each year, our community gathers to honor the lives of those lost to domestic violence, support survivors, and renew our commitment to ending abuse.
Please join the Domestic Violence Action Network (DVAN) of Kent County for our annual Candlelight Vigil. Together, we will remember those whose lives were taken, recognize the strength and resilience of survivors, and stand alongside families and advocates working toward a future free from violence.
The evening will include: • A reading of the names of those who lost their life due to Intimate Partner Violence in Michigan this past year • Reflections from community leaders and advocates • Opportunities to connect with local organizations and learn how you can help prevent domestic violence
Whether domestic violence has touched your own life or you simply want to stand with your neighbors, your presence matters. Together, we send a powerful message that every life is valuable, every survivor deserves support, and our community will continue working toward safety and hope for all.
Time: The vigil will be 6-6:30pm. From 5-6pm attendees are invited to learn about how Domestic Violence impacts our community by visiting interactive exhibits installed along the Blue Bridge.
Location: The Blue Footbridge in Grand Rapids, MI.
Parking: The Fulton-Market lot will be free to those attending the vigil starting at 4pm. 100 Ottawa Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 This event is free and open to everyone. Families, friends, advocates, professionals, and community members are all welcome.
Thursday October 15th
Understanding Domestic Violence - A Community Event
When: 6:00pm-7:30pm
Where: Central Park Place 421 Columbus Ave Grand Haven, MI
FREE
Join the Violence Prevention Alliance for an educational training on domestic violence including a closer look at power and control dynamics, signs to look for, the impact on survivors, how to help, and available services.
FREE Event
Registration Required
Friday October 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30
Yoga Therapy for Stress
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When: 11:00am-1:00pm
Where: Dance Studio
STUDENTS ONLY
Students-Only Class | In partnership with the GVSU University Counseling Center and Recreation and Wellness
Yoga Therapy for Stress is a co-facilitated course that combines accessible yoga, breathing, relaxation, and psychoeducation to help students manage stress and strengthen the mind-body connection. Students will learn practical strategies for navigating stress, anxiety, burnout, and everyday challenges through a trauma-sensitive, person-centered approach. No previous yoga experience is necessary.
As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, this course invites students to reflect on the importance of safety, self-care, supportive connections, and healthy relationships while building practical tools to support their well-being.
FREE Class
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
There are no upcoming Domestic Violence Awareness Month at this time