Marie Jacinto is the director of communications for AVDA: Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse. February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and the subject is treated year-round by AVDA's Coaching Boys into Men program. High school coaches are given training to teach their athletes about self-respect and the respect of others and specifically the women they date. For many boys, their coach has the potential to be among the most important male role models in their lives, especially for boys living with their single mother. The program is so successful at reducing teen dating violence that high schools are requesting it for their sports teams. You can find out more about here: www.avda-tx.org
You can also call 713-224-9911, AVDA's Help Line open 8AM – 5PM for help if you or someone you know is the victim of domestic abuse.