VISALIA, CA — Family Services of Tulare County is teaching local teenagers how to build healthy and safe relationships. Advocates like Cassandra Carreno lead the effort, which aims to stop the cycle of family violence by teaching young people better communication skills.
The outreach program comes as national data highlights the risks many young people face today. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about one in 12 teenagers has experienced physical dating violence. Research from the Urban Institute also shows that 20% of teenagers experience digital harassment or abuse during school hours.
Reaching Students on Campus
During their lunch breaks, students can visit information booths at local schools to learn how to spot the early warning signs of dating violence. Advocates often decorate these booths with orange hearts and talk with students about boundaries and consent.
To provide practical help, advocates distribute pocket-sized cards that define consent. These cards help students keep this information with them and understand their rights in a relationship. The program also encourages students to be "active bystanders" by safely stepping in to help if they see a friend in a difficult or dangerous situation.
Identifying Red Flags
Family Services staff also give classroom presentations that explain the different types of relationship violence. These sessions go beyond physical fights to cover emotional abuse and the use of money to control a partner. The goal is to help students recognize "red flags" and understand what makes a partnership safe.
For older students, the program offers a confidential digital survey accessed through a QR code. This tool allows students to privately check their relationship health and spot potential problems.
Support Resources
Crisis support is available 24 hours a day for those experiencing abuse. Residents can reach out through these primary resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233
- Marjaree Mason Center (Fresno County): (559) 233-4357
