RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) Classes for Women

Self-Defense Class Open to the Public

Defensive tactics every woman needs to know are taught at the Elkhart County Sheriff’s Office.

Det. Norma Alber instructs students both in classroom and gymnasium settings. The 12-hour course is broken into four nights of classes, spanning two weeks.

Participants must attend at least three courses in order to complete the course.

The next class will be on the following dates:

  • March 12, 2024
  • March 14, 2024
  • March 19, 2024
  • March 21, 2024

These classes will be held from 6:00pm to 9:00 pm on the above dates at CAPS, 1000 W. Hively Ave., Elkhart, IN.

Women interested in attending these free courses should call Ginny Shaw at (574)891-2341 or send an email to

VShaw@elkhartcountysheriff.com.

Private clubs, businesses, and community groups may arrange training to fit specific schedules by using the same contact information.

Dates are filling up fast for churches or corporate companies to host a RAD Self-Defense Class. Classes are 3 hours long for 4 nights. If you are interested in hosting a class, you have to have at least 25 committed participants. Contact Secretary Ginny Shaw by email at VShaw@elkhartcountysheriff.com or phone (574) 891-2341 for questions on host requirements or to schedule classes.


Advanced RAD (Rape Aggression Defense) Class

Like our other RAD classes, this class is free; however, women are strongly encouraged to have completed the basic RAD class before signing up for the advanced class.

Due to the dynamic impact drills, which will include more vulnerable locations to the face, head, knees, and back, women will need to be able to do more intense ground defense.

Women will need to be able to give and receive strikes & kicks, learn how to fall, and have a warrior mentality.

Women interested in attending the Advanced RAD class should call (574)891-2341 or send an email to VShaw@elkhartcountysheriff.com


Whatever your age or skill level, we’ll teach you something to prepare yourself physically and psychologically. People need this class if they can’t answer whether they are prepared to defend themselves from an attacker.

Det. Norma Alber is a certified trainer in the nationally respected Rape Aggression Defense program

Related Information

Blog: Rad Helping Women Be Prepared, Be Aware an Bring it for more than 20 Years