Did you know 1 in 3 teens experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by a dating partner? Dating violence is more common than people think, especially among teens and young adults. That is why this February, Family Services is joining efforts alongside other victim-service agencies for Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This campaign is an annual month-long push focused on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse before it starts. This year’s theme, Know Your Worth, is about learning more about healthy relationships and self-empowerment.
Here's how you can get involved:
1) Participate in Wear Orange Day on Tuesday, February 9th:
- Wear the color orange on Tuesday, February 9th for Wear Orange Day using #Orange4LoveTC. This is an opportunity to get people talking about Teen Dating Violence and get a photo or two! Please share your photos with us by tagging @familyservicestc and tell us why you are wearing orange.
2) Sign-up to attend one of the Let’s Talk: Teen DV Webinars
- Talk for Teens - February 17, at 3 p.m. PST | Teens are invited to learn about teen dating violence, the cycle of abuse, healthy dating tips, steps to leaving an abusive relationship, and resources. This webinar is intended for youth ages 12-19.
- Talking to Teens - February 24, at 3 p.m. PST | Parents and community members are invited to learn about teen dating violence and how to start conversations to support youth. Click here to register for these webinars.
3) Support Family Services' violence prevention work: Make an online donation to ensure violence prevention education is available to children, adults, and families in Tulare County. Under gift designation, select "Violence Prevention." Learn more about this work here.
By coming together this February, we can raise awareness and stop dating abuse before it starts. We encourage you to learn more and have open conversations about this issue with young people in your lives. Whether you are a parent, coach, teacher, or anyone who knows or works with teens, you have the ability to be part of changing the culture and bringing an end to violence.
References:
Loveisrespect.org
