This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
In recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, the City of Longmont’s LEVI (Longmont Ending Violence Initiative) program and Safe Shelter of St. Vrain Valley (Safe Shelter) are partnering again this year to raise awareness about this critical issue in our community.
The organizations will be installing displays of flags. Each red flag represents the one-in-three teens in St Vrain Valley Schools who will experience some form of emotional, physical, cyber or sexual abuse from someone they have dated. The installation will be a collaborative effort of teens, staff and volunteers.
In stark contrast to reality, 82% of parents do not think teen dating abuse is an issue. Experts recommend that those who care for, educate and work with youth; lawyers and law officers should be alert and responsive to the impact posed by abusers. Those concerned about a teen in their life, can begin by searching online for helpful resources to learn the signs of dating abuse and by talking to your teens. Break the Cycle is also good source of information for teens and parents.
Safe Shelter in Longmont is staffed by experienced counselors who can provide free, inclusive non-judgmental counseling for adults, children and youth. If your child’s welfare is of concern or if a youth you know would like to speak to someone for guidance, please call to make an appointment.
The installations will be placed in small garden patches at several locations such as the Youth Center at 1050 Lashley Street and in front of the Public Safety Building on Kimbark.
For additional information on this campaign, answers to questions about teen dating violence, and how to get help, please call Brandon Seeley, Outreach Coordinator at Safe Shelter of St Vrain Valley, 303-772-0432 or Kim Heard, LEVI Project Coordinator, 303-774-4534.
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This is a press release issued by the Safe Shelter of St. Vrain Valley and is published here as a public service.
