Authors: Claussen, C., Wells, L., Blackwell, S., Soldan, L, Mah, J., Demedeiros, S., Barker, S., Montesanti, S., & Turner, A.

Collaborators: Rempel, E., Macleod, R., McGinnis, W.

Date: September 2025

Developed through the Made-In-Alberta Rural and Small Town Collaborative, this report brings together research and community insights to better understand the conditions influencing gender-based violence in High River and identify strategies for primary prevention.

From population growth and aging demographics to increasing diversity, the data highlights the complex social dynamics shaping High River, with implications for violence prevention efforts. The report suggests 6 key next steps for preventing gender-based violence: collect more local data on perpetration patterns; develop and support male-focused prevention initiatives; implement a whole-school approach to violence prevention; engage faith, service clubs, and other grassroots community groups in prevention efforts; prioritize public awareness campaigns; and partner with Indigenous communities in parallel prevention processes.

The Made-In-Alberta Rural and Small Town Collaborative – including Shift, YWCA Banff, Big Hill Haven in Cochrane, and Rowan House Society in High River – is examining the root causes of violence, identifying risk factors for male perpetration, and co-creating community-driven solutions to stop harm before it starts.