I was in a bit of shock when I read this statistic, especially knowing one day I am going to have at least two teenagers myself:
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four teens will experience abuse in his or her dating relationship by age 18.
I find this to not only be extremely scary, but incredibly sad, too, which is why I wanted to post about a neat project currently happening that is hoping to help combat this serious issue.
Verizon Wireless has teamed up with Cornerstone, a domestic violence agency based in Minnesota, and MTE Inc. in a nationwide campaign to raise awareness of teen dating violence. PAVE (Preventing Abuse and Violence Through Education) the Way Project is designed to promote healthy relationships and empower teens to take a stand against dating violence through the expression of pop music.
Seven artists ages 13-20, from across the country, contributed original songs to the non-profit project to raise awareness of dating violence. The project launched earlier this month with an interactive website where songs are becoming available as free downloads every week. Here’s the schedule of releases:
Currently available:
Memphis High, Memphis, Tenn.
Dexter Darden, Los Angeles
Dymond Harding, Ypsilanti, Mich. (—> Michigan friends, we need to support this gal! She can JAM. Listen here.)
May 1: Picture Me Broken, Redwood City, Calif.
May 8: Charlie Dane, Oyster Bay, N.Y.
May 15: Shanell McCoy, Minneapolis
May 22: Conor Flynn, Stamford, Conn.
From May 29 – June 12, the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite track at www.pavethewayproject.com. The winning artist will then perform in a recording of a new song written by Salvador Santana, collaborating alongside his father, 10-time Grammy winner, Carlos Santana {HOW COOL IS THAT!?}.
The PAVE the Way Project’s website also includes tips for teens who may find themselves, or a friend, in an unhealthy relationship.
For more information on PAVE the Way Project, visit www.pavethewayproject.com and also check them out on Facebook and Twitter.
Comments are closed today. Go check out the website to learn more about this project and the talented artists helping to spread the word about this worthy cause.