The Nuts & Bolts
More Information and Frequently Asked Questions
What We Do
The goal of Project Valkyrie is to aid and empower victims of domestic violence and violent crime by offering an avenue though which they can regain a sense of confidence, autonomy and strength. We recognize that trauma can live in one’s body long after harmful events are over- whether those events last moments or years. Project Valkyrie seeks to provide a safe, inspiring environment where that trauma can be released.
How Does it Work
Clients of Project Valkyrie are referred by any of several aid organizations around the Portland area. Each client is given a series of 10 lessons- to be scheduled at their convenience, usually aiming for 1-2 lessons per week. The client can choose to have lessons alone or two clients can choose to take lessons together. (Maximum lesson size is 2 participants) The client is introduced to two common apparatus: aerial silks (or “tissue”) and lyra (or “hoop”). The client can either continue lessons with both apparatuses, or choose to focus on one. The lesson structure is 1 hour: 10 minutes to warm up and stretch, 45 minutes of work on an apparatus and then a 5 minute cool down.
Why Aerial
Aerial arts, like many movement practices, reinvigorate one’s sense of power and agency over their own lives. Physical activity is known to decrease stress and depression and aid in reacquainting victims with their own bodies. However, not all physical activity is for everyone. For example, some individuals may not enjoy traditional gyms or fitness classes as they tend to be public offerings with a wide array of attendees with whom a survivor may not feel comfortable. Additionally, self-defense classes, though useful, can re-traumatize survivors as the drills and exercises are often similar to the sensation of being assaulted. Aerial arts, as taught by The Valkyrie Project, focus on body awareness, dance, fun and joy in movement while simultaneously building strength and a sense of accomplishment and pride
Who Pays For It?
The Valkyrie Project asks for donations from any interested party/individual/organization. The lessons average out to approximately $50 each. That money goes to renting the teaching space, insurance, equipment, operational costs (website & promotional material) and paying the teacher. Supporters can give a one-time donation, give a monthly repeating donation, or choose to sponsor a survivor.
Who Can Participate
At this time, lessons are gifted on a first-come, first served basis. As The Valkyrie Project is just starting out, we have limited capacity, but hope to increase our availability as we grow. We ask that clients cancel any lessons they will miss at least 24 hours in advance. If the client misses 2 lessons without advanced notice, unfortunately that client will be removed from the program so the lessons can be gifted to a client who will use them. Removed clients are welcome to re-apply for lessons at a later date when they are more available. Exceptions to this rule will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
How Do I Sponsor a Survivor
The Valkyrie Project asks for donations from any interested party/individual/organization. The lessons average out to approximately $50 each. That money goes to renting the teaching space, insurance, equipment, operational costs (website & promotional material) and paying the teacher. Supporters can give a one-time donation, give a monthly repeating donation, or choose to sponsor a survivor.
Who is Teaching These Lessons
The Valkyrie Project teachers all have a minimum of 5 years of aerial experience and are all required to completed the basic domestic-violence advocacy training through the Raphael House. Additionally, the teachers will all have to pass background checks which exclude individuals who have been convicted of crimes (beyond traffic violations) or have ever had any sort of protective order against them.
What Happens When the Series is Over
The Valkyrie Project is first come/first serve, so if clients would like to continue their training with us, they are welcome to reapply for more classes when their turn is up. As first-time clients will take precedence over returning clients, we are hoping to partner with some of the many aerial schools around the Portland area and secure a discounted class/lesson rate for Valkyrie graduates.