Family Services of Tulare County teaching teens about healthy and safe relationships

VISALIA, Calif. (KFSN) -- Healthy communities start with healthy relationships.

"A lot of that is going back and breaking those generational cycles," said Cassandra Carreno, the Community Engagement Coordinator at Family Services of Tulare County.

According to the CDC, about 1 in 12 teenagers experienced physical dating violence.

Another report from the Urban Institute found that 1 in 5 teens say they've dealt with digital abuse or harassment during school hours.

That's why Family Services of Tulare County is working to teach teens about what a positive relationship looks like.

"We've had schools request for us to go out there during the kids' lunch period and have a booth with information," said Carreno. "Having conversations with kids about consent and boundaries."

Covered with orange hearts, the booth gives information about the signs of teen dating violence. Advocates also hand out consent cards.

"It fits in their pocket and is a little bit easier for them to carry and keep in their book bag," said Carreno. "But it's defining consent, and we discuss how we can even be an active bystander."

Carreno explains that they even provide presentations for the schools. The slideshow breaks down the different types of violence someone can go through and what makes a safe relationship

"It's not just physical," said Carreno. "We talk about the emotional aspect. Sometimes privilege, when people are at different economic levels."

Older kids and teens can even scan a QR code that allows them to take a completely private survey to help them measure their relationship.

"It gives them the space to look at their own relationship and see if there are any issues or red flags there," said Carreno.

Last year, Family Services of Tulare County held multiple outreach events at several Tulare County schools. But this year, they're hoping to do more.

"It's also realizing what healthy love looks like," said Carreno. "For us, it's getting them to think about it."

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, or you know someone who is, there is help available 24/7. In Fresno County, call the Marjaree Mason Center at (559) 233-4357. In all other locations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

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