"Safe Date '08," a teen dating violence workshop, will take place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at The Vineyard Church, 135 Waddles Run Road, Wheeling.
The program is for boys, girls and their parents, and is sponsored by the YWCA Wheeling Family Violence Prevention Program.
Statistics show that not only is domestic violence on the rise, but also one in two teenagers has experienced violence in their lives and one in three is currently in a violent dating relationship, according to Debbie Wood, program director for the Family Violence Prevention Program.
In dating violence, one partner tries to maintain power and control over the other through abuse, Wood said. Teen dating violence crosses all racial, economic and social lines. Most victims are young women, who are also at greater risk for serious injury.
"Local criminal courts are crowded with domestic violence cases and boys in particular, risk their future if they are not taught that they are responsible for solving problems in their relationships," Wood said.
Those in attendance will view a short video "Break the Cycle - I Have a Secret," and then separate breakout sessions will take place for boys, girls and parents, facilitated by Family Violence Prevention Program staff and collaborators.
Fact Box
"Safe Date '08," 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at The Vineyard Church, 135 Waddles Run Road, Wheeling. For information, call 304-232-2748.
Issues to be discussed include healthy relationships, learning the warning signs of abuse and overcoming the obstacles to getting help. A West Virginia State Police officer will talk about Internet safety, and a counselor from Wheeling Park High School will be on hand.
Wood said teen dating violence often is hidden because teenagers typically:
"The evening will hopefully change lives and teach our teens that they have choices and believe they are valuable people who deserve to be treated with respect," Wood said.
Local directors and consultants with Mary Kay Cosmetics purchased the "Break the Cycle" video and donated it to the program in an effort to help prevent local teen dating violence, Wood said.
Teens who participate in the event by asking or answering questions will be given raffle tickets to win a variety of prizes donated by local merchants.
For information, call the Family Violence Prevention Program, 304-232-2748.