Welcome to The
Physical Safety School
Welcome to the Ford Foundation Physical Safety School. This school is specially curated for grantees operating and based in the United States. Safety and security is increasingly becoming a priority for organizations of all sizes and mandates. The current political climate in the US and around the world presents new threats and dynamics that can impact your staff, operations and assets. The aim of this safety school is to offer guidance on how organizations can improve their safety practices and be better equipped to identify and mitigate risks.
-
In an era of increasing polarization, extremism, and political violence, the safety and security of civil society organizations have never been more critical. Our school was founded with a mission to empower nonprofits, community leaders, and grassroots organizations with the skills and knowledge they need to navigate today’s complex security environment.
-
CSG is a professional security collective that centers human needs, intersectional differences, and mutual accountability. We curate impactful content to help organizations improve good safety and security practices
Course Overview
-
Generally the third Wednesday of the month. Monthly live sessions and office hours on core topics related to physical safety and security.
-
Generally the first or fourth Wednesday of the month. This is an opportunity for participants to dive deeper into the webinar content as well as have a more interactive experience with the instructors and fellow course participants.
-
One-on-one support is available for organizations wishing to discuss specific needs. These hours will be distributed on an equitable basis. One-on-one support is not meant to provide emergency assistance.
Available Course
Forecasting and Scenario Planning
The Forecasting and Scenario Planning course equips students with essential tools to anticipate future trends and prepare for uncertainties. It emphasizes strategic thinking, data analysis, and adaptability in decision-making.
Master the Art of Security Risk Assessment
Security Risk Assessments (SRAs) form the backbone of a solid approach to security risk management within your organization. SRAs provide insight into the threats that put you at risk, and what you must do to reduce those risks.
Duty of Care: Physical Safety Management 101
Gain a comprehensive understanding of physical safety management and the duty of care within organizations.
Security Coordination
Build a person-centered, inclusive, and practical approach to security coordination. Learn tools to strengthen your organization’s role in security networks.
Meet the Instructors
-
Collective Security Group, CEO
Based in Washington, D.C., Tara Arthur is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Collective Security Group (CSG), where she leads the delivery of high- performing, human-centered, holistic security solutions to clients worldwide. With over 15 years of experience in security risk management, coordination, programming, and advocacy in the development and humanitarian sector, Tara is dedicated to enhancing inclusive safety practices and operational effectiveness for organizations operating in changing and complex environments.
-
Collective Security Group, Chief Technical Advisor
Based in Lisbon, Portugal, Elizabeth Detwiler is is the Co-Founder and Chief Technical Advisor of Collective Security Group (CSG). She has over 15 years of experience working for international nonprofits in security risk management in Afghanistan, Lebanon, Nigeria, and other locations. Elizabeth specializes in risk assessment and has personally designed and delivered 80+ security trainings and workshops in over 20 countries.
Live Learning & Events
Upcoming Webinars
Past Sessions
Design for Public Health Impact
Exploring how visual design can drive engagement in health campaigns.
Recorded: May 2025Storytelling Through Motion
Learn how to communicate ideas effectively using motion graphics.
Recorded: April 2025Inclusive Branding Workshop
Best practices for accessible and inclusive visual design.
Recorded: March 2025One-on-One Support
One-on-one support is available for organizations wishing to discuss specific needs. These hours will be distributed on an equitable basis. One-on-one support is not meant to provide emergency assistance.
Resource Library
Watch and revisit recorded webinar sessions on leadership, safety, and preparedness.
Leading Through Crisis
Learn strategies to lead and communicate effectively in times of uncertainty.
Building Resilient Teams
Discover tools for fostering team trust and adaptability under pressure.
Risk Communication Essentials
Explore how to deliver clear and confident communication during emergencies.