By proclamation of President Barack Obama, February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. Our leader calls on all Americans to empower the young people of our communities to develop healthy relationships throughout their lives and to engage in activities that prevent and respond to teen dating violence.

In recognition of this worthy cause, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of the San Juan Islands is partnering with Lopez High School Student Council and Natural Helpers to bring students the tools they need to recognize healthy and unhealthy relationships.

This week-long campaign includes classroom educational presentations by DVSAS Advocate Kim Bryan. Educational activities will include pocket-size cards with useful information to keep and share, cool wristbands reinforcing the importance of “Respect and Love,” and a T-shirt painting contest giving students the opportunity to artistically express their view of what a healthy relationship looks like.

Student leaders have decided this message of healthy relationship awareness is so important that they want to share it with their island community. You are invited to join them at the Lopez Village Market on Valentine’s Day, Thursday, Feb. 14, anytime between 3 and 7 p.m., to share your artistic views of healthy relationships too.  All ages are encouraged to participate.