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Please join Prevail in recognizing February as National Teen Dating Violence Prevention Month (TDVPM). The theme for 2022 is Talk About It, set by the organization Love Is Respect, a national organization bringing awareness to teen dating violence. TDVPM is a call to action for youth and the adults who support them to have conversations about relationships and how to navigate them in healthy and safe ways.
It is important for us to Talk About It because we know that teen dating violence happens. We know that talking around it or avoiding the topic is not helping. We know that talking about such a challenging subject is scary and intimidating. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists teen dating violence as a public health crisis. And the pandemic has only increased the instances that go unrecognized and the number of youth who are not receiving support.
To enhance this important work, we have an updated Teen Dating Violence Prevention Month (TDVPM) Toolkit available through Prevails website (www.prevailinc.org). With this kit the community will find information about resources, discussion starters, activities, and handouts about teen dating violence. Our hope is that everyone can use any or all of what is included to start conversations with the teens in your life and enhance your knowledge about healthy relationships, which are the antidote to dating violence. Included in the toolkit are activity suggestions ranging from five-minute conversations to full lesson plans, so there are many options to fit any time you have available.
In addition to Talking About It, we challenge you to go orange with Prevail by wearing an orange article of clothing on February 4th and post a picture online using the hashtag #GoOrangePrevail.
Thank you for your support and active involvement with the teens in our community. We really cannot bring about change without you! If you would like more information about Prevails TDVPM Toolkit or teen dating violence, contact Prevails Advocacy Supervisor, Kelly Ferriell at kferriell@prevailinc.org or 317-773-6942.
About Prevail, Inc.
Prevail, Inc. is committed to offering crisis intervention and restorative support services for adult, adolescent and child survivors of crime and abuse, free of charge, in a confidential, supportive, non-judgmental environment that is meant to empower, educate, and strengthen those we serve. Visit www.PrevailInc.org to learn more. You can reach Prevails 24-Hour Crisis Line at 317-776-3472.
