Hands Off is a program that aims to educate youth about teen dating violence and bullying.

The initiative includes;

• Interactive activities, music, and videos. 

• Provide strategies and tools to support preventing abuse. 

• Personal growth and self awareness skills. 

• Increase education and awareness of domestic violence, bullying, suicide risk and mental health. 

• Non violent communication skills.

Domestic violence is defined as purposeful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior performed by one intimate partner against another as part of a systemic pattern of power and control.  Abuse is physical, sexual, emotional, economic or psychological actions. Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, economic class, religion, or gender. 

1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. 

19% of domestic violence involves a weapon. 

• Controlling Behavior 
• Isolation from family, friends, coworkers  
• Verbal abuse  
• Sudden mood swings  
• Past abusive relationship  
• Threats of violence  
• Controlling behaviors using social media  
• Jealousy

• Listen to them. DON’T Shame, Judge, or Critique
• Let them know they are not alone  
• Tell them you’re there to support and help them
• Allow your friend to make their own decision  Encourage them to contact a hotline or a professional resource for help  
• Research resources. Knowledge is power.