About US
The We Deserve Better Project is a group of current and former anti-violence workers from across the United States who are committed to creating better working conditions that mutually benefit survivors and advocates.
History of the Project
Towards the end of 2022, we asked anti-violence workers to complete an anonymous assessment to learn more about the challenges advocates experience while working in the field, and what changes agencies could make to support advocates and survivors, and improve systems. We received 265 responses from 31 US states and 2 US territories. In April 2024, we launched a website that includes key findings from the needs assessment, materials from a three-part virtual summit we hosted during summer 2023, and recommendations for different roles in the anti-violence field.
collective impact model
The WDBP utilizes a Collective Impact Model, which brings people together in a structured way to achieve social change.
In a Collective Impact initiative, the Backbone organization coordinates with various partners and individuals to achieve a common goal. The SOAR Collective takes on the role of the Backbone for the WDBP, offering support, coordination, and strategic guidance to sustain and grow the work of WDBP and similar efforts.
On a regular basis, members of the WDBP meet as a Steering Committee, which we call our Monthly Huddle. At this meeting, we share updates, discuss strategy, and make decisions together.
WDBP members lead and participate in Action Teams, which are the projects and initiatives they are passionate about, all in service of our shared mission.
what we're working on
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podcast
We started a podcast! Listen to episodes of RE:Imagining Anti-Violence Work on Substack, or wherever you get your podcasts. If you’re interested in sharing your story of burnout, workplace abuse, and your visions for the future of anti-violence work, send an email with the subject line “Podcast Guest.”
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talk it out together
TIOT is a space for anti-violence workers to connect, share challenges, and support each other. TIOT sessions take place on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4:30 pm ET / 3:30 pm CT / 2:30 pm MT / 1:30 pm PT. Learn more and register here.
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unionizing project
Our upcoming project will be a survey to learn about unionizing efforts within our organizations to create a blueprint for collective action that transforms the movement. No prior experience with unionizing is necessary to join, and confidentiality will be respected. To learn more, send an email with the subject line “union.”
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