TDVAM
Every February, YWCA Spokane joins organizations across the nation in a month-long initiative, TDVAM (Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month) to raise awareness about teen dating violence. During this campaign, we work to normalize conversations about healthy and unhealthy relationships and provide clear ways our community can take action.
Teen Dating Violence
“1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults,” states Love is Respect, a project of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. “And nearly half (43%) of U.S. college women report experiencing violent or abusive dating behaviors.”
It is a common misconception that domestic violence is an issue that only impacts adults. Intimate partner violence can begin as young as sixth grade and the negative impacts on survivors' wellbeing can last through adulthood.
Together we can create an environment for young people to openly and honestly engage in conversations about relationships. This has the power to prevent violence and equip the next generation with the information and skills maintain healthy long-term relationships.
2025
Pathways Forward Event Supporting Youth Experiencing Dating Abuse
Watch the Pathways conversation held during this year's campaign centered on how to support youth who are navigating unhealthy relationships.
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month 2025
YWCA Spokane will be joining Love is Respect in their national TDVAM efforts this February to disrupt and prevent unhealthy relationships and intimate partner violence by empowering young people through inclusive and equitable education, support, and resources.
This year's theme is "Respect That", which embraces a powerful concept that can transform relationships. Per Love is Respect, respecting someone isn’t just a vague idea; it’s action and a mindset. The theme “Respect That” highlights the importance of treating partners with dignity, listening to their viewpoints, respecting their boundaries, and valuing their autonomy by focusing on respect.
Ways you can take action in February:
- Wear Orange: Orange is the official color of Teen Dating Violence Action Month. YWCA staff will be showing their solidarity to end teen dating violence by wearing orange on February 11th. Join us by sharing your orange outfit with #TDVAM.
- Share on Social Media: Throughout the month of February, share our TDVAM infographics on Facebook and Instagram to encourage dialog and resource sharing.
- Attend Pathways Forward: Register for our next Pathways Forward event on Feb 27th. This conversation will focus on learning how to support youth experiencing dating violence.
Beyond February
Spreading awareness about teen dating violence is not confined to February. We stay dedicated to this work each and every day in order to make a lasting impact in our community.
Let's Connect
If you are interested in engaging with or learning more about our prevention efforts, please reach out. We would love to talk with you.
Youth Violence Prevention
Promoting a culture of nonviolence with youth
Through empowerment, engagement, and education about healthy and unhealthy relationships, leadership development and creating a space of belonging:
- Transformations Camp - summer empowerment camp
- Youth Self-Care Summit - A special one day conference of care for young people.