Wednesday, April 25, 2001

Violence prevention program presented to high schoolers

During the past school year, more than 1,500 high school students in Fayette County participated in a classroom event that has the potential to change and even save lives.

County high school health teachers reserve one day each semester for Fayette County Council on Domestic Violence (FCCDV) volunteers to present a Teen Dating Violence Prevention program to their class. Now the program is seeking new volunteers for the upcoming school year.

"FCCDV offers many services to our community aimed at helping those who are affected by domestic violence. But in my opinion, talking to teenagers before they need any of these services is one of the most important things we do," said Melissa Hamilton, who along with Cindi Polo is the training coordinator for the program.

"Our mission is to give kids who are just starting to date the information they need to avoid getting into abusive relationships and the tools they need to get out of any bad relationship they may be in."

Volunteers receive four hours of training and are asked to observe seasoned presenters before teaming up with another volunteer to do the presentations.

"The time commitment is not that much," Hamilton said. "We ask our presenters to teach two class periods at each school twice a year, which between the four county high schools means a total of eight hours each semester."

During presentations, students learn about the types of abuse, warning signs in a relationship, how to deal with anger and what to do if someone they know is in an abusive relationship. Students also view a short video that demonstrates both good and abusive dating relationships.

"The feedback we get from students and their teachers is great. Dating can be so confusing at this age and the teens seem eager to talk about their experiences," said Hamilton.

Anyone over 18 who enjoys talking with teenagers may volunteer. Those interested in becoming a presenter or learning more about the program can call the FCCDV office at 770-460-1604. Training sessions are being planned for both May and early next fall.