Sometimes things move beyond what you dared to hope for and with outcomes you barely imagined possible. Two years ago, my goal was to have an on-site nurse at our Safe House for shelter residents and their children. The impact of living with abuse and trauma takes a toll on women's health at every level. A volunteer came along and suddenly a dream began to take shape. Sharon Hachtman, R.N., started volunteering with residents, and it quickly became a mutual "connection of affection." Sharon now contracts with Turning Point for several hours weekly, highlighting women's reproductive health, nutrition, self-care, and family stressors.

This seemingly quiet project is now part of a national pilot program to engage the community in addressing adolescent reproductive health and dynamics of sexual coercion. Targeting youth ages 14-24, the Project Connect program forms partnerships between TPLV and health providers throughout The Valley with the goal of creating a network of resources and support for teens at a very vulnerable stage of their development.  TPLV is the only DV agency in the state offering this program.

Our tracking surveys indicate that a majority of clients seeking services report that their partner forced them to have sex, interfered with their birth control, threatened them if they did not agree to become pregnant, and/or refused to practice safe sex. Lack of information, combined with a lack of safe places to talk, leave many adolescents without resources. We want to change that with options, safety, and support throughout the community.

The conversation is expanding and catching attention. We can provide training for clinical staff, a supply of handouts for distribution, and an opportunity to make a difference in the lives and futures of young women and men. To join us in the conversation, please contact Le Shan St.Clair-Spencer, the Community Outreach Director, at (610) 797-0530 ext. 225 (leshans@turningpointlv.org).  And let's keep talking....

Peace,

Diane

• Ages 4 years old and up
• Themes & Activities include courage, acceptance, self-esteem, respect, boundaries, recognition of feelings, bullying, conflict resolution and friendship as well as dancing and music.
• Books: What I Like About Me, Bullying No More, Sometimes I Feel, Everyone Matters, Just Kidding & more.

  BAT AND RAT book trailer