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Article published March 15, 2019 — 9:15 a.m. EST 

On March 6, Soroptimist International of the Flat Rock Area, together with The Guidance Center and First Step, sponsored a workshop for the sophomore class of Flat Rock High School. The presentation was designed to educate students on the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships and how to avoid dating violence.

It is called Expect Respect and Soroptimist of Flat Rock Area has been presenting it to schools in the area since 2012.

Many Soroptimist clubs undertake projects that raise awareness of teen dating violence. Members distribute literature for teens, parents, and school personnel that present facts about teen dating violence; provide warning signs; and provide resources indicating options for help. Soroptimist also developed a bookmark to raise awareness about teen dating violence. One side of the bookmark provides the signs of a healthy relationship and the other side lists signs of an unhealthy relationship.

The first part of Expect Respect contained a brief PowerPoint presentation led by Judge Jennifer Hessen Coleman and a panel of lawyers, as well as a former victim of domestic violence. During the second part of the workshop the students broke into small groups. The facilitators asked students pre-existing questions and then listened to them discuss and helped to guide them through the differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships and how to get help if they think they need it.

Trained professionals were on site and available if needed.

Headquartered in Philadelphia, Pa., Soroptimist improves the lives of women and girls through programs leading to social and economic empowerment. Its major program, the Soroptimist Live Your Dream Awards, provides cash grants for women seeking to improve their lives with the help of additional education and training.

Since 1972, the award-winning program has disbursed more than $25 million to tens of thousands of women, helping them to achieve their educational goals. Soroptimist, a 501(c)(3) organization that relies on charitable donations to support its programs, also powers LiveYourDream.org—an online community offering offline volunteer opportunities in support of women and girls.

For more information, visit soroptimist.org.

If you would like additional information about the Flat Rock Club, call Diane Flynn at (248)719-3977.

Source: Soroptimist International of the Flat Rock Area

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