The repercussions of teen dating violence are impossible to ignore - the issue affects not just youth but their families, schools and communities as well. Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM) brings national focus to the issue of teen dating violence, highlights the need to educate our youth about healthy relationships, raises awareness among those who care for them and provides communities with a critical opportunity to work together to prevent this devastating cycle of abuse.

On January 19, 2010, Pennsylvania Legislators passed House Resolution No. 584 which designated February 1st-5th as "Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week." This Resolution called on all residents of Pennsylvania to observe "Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Week" by encouraging appropriate programs and activities that promote awareness and prevention of the crime of teen dating violence in their communities.

A proclamation designating February as "Dating Violence Awareness Month" was made by Thomas Trigona of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The proclamation stated that young people can choose healthy relationships when they understand what a healthy relationship is. The proclamation also stated the elimination of dating violence can only be achieved through the cooperation of individuals, organizations and communities. Dating violence month is a great opportunity to educate citizens about dating violence and show support for those who provide care and assistance to abuse victims.

To learn more about dating violence please visit:
Choose Respect Initiative - www.chooserespect.org
National Sexual Violence Resource Center - www.nsvrc.org
National Youth Violence Prevention Resource Center - www.safeyouth.org
Teen Dating Violence Prevention Project - www.teendvmonth.org
Have a Heart Campaign - www.haveaheartcampaign.org
The Safe Space - www.thesafespace.org