Begin Your Journey

I’ve been blessed to have Al Velarde as an advocate, guide, and support during an episode with my daughter when she was a victim of Domestic Violence a few years ago.  Not only was Al a personal support, but as a professional he stood with her during many court appearances, protected her from contact with her offender, and offered opportunities for learning how to advocate for herself, how to protect herself in threatening situations, guided her to leave a “victim” mindset and embrace strength and assertive postures. 

He provided so much non-judgmental opportunities for her to rebuild trust and also skills in self defense in real world settings. She could “hear” what Al was offering in a way that, as her parents, she couldn’t from us. .  He helped her build her own sense of strength!

His work both with her and for her was invaluable in bringing her back to the joyful young woman she had been before her offender changed things. And she now continues to be an advocate for other women, so his work lives on in her and for that, I’m grateful!

Al also made himself available to our daughters’ Lutheran Church Youth group to hold classes with both boys and girls in self defense and awareness, preventing making themselves a “target”, and observational skills to spot potential threats or problems so they could be proactive in prevention.  He personalized all the scenarios to experiences that actually happen, and was their biggest cheerleader as they worked through the skills!  

His professionalism never wavered, and his willingness to make himself available was sacrificial. He has been a true blessing to our family. 

With sincere appreciation,

Sue Dragan