04 Mar Stories of Strength and Hope
Dating violence, like domestic violence, survives in silence. Too often, survivors feel afraid, ashamed, or unsure they will be believed. When their voices are dismissed or blamed, the abuse is allowed to continue, leaving young people isolated from support while those who cause harm remain unchallenged and unaccountable.
This February, in honor of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, we launched our I Wish I Had Known campaign to break that silence and bring survivors’ experiences into the light. We are deeply grateful to every person who trusted us with their story. Their courage is changing the conversation.
We invite you to read and share these powerful submissions. By amplifying their voices, you help replace stigma with understanding, isolation with connection, and secrecy with knowledge, so that every young person learns what a healthy relationship truly looks like and knows they are not alone.
Stories of Strength and Hope
I Wish I Had Known the Importance of Loving Myself
The poem submitted by “Healthy Communicator” beautifully underscores how essential it is for teens to know themselves, their values, their needs, and their boundaries, before they begin dating.
I Wish I Had Known I DIdn’t Have to Play Games
Molly’s essay eloquently exposes the unhealthy messages many of us, especially girls, are taught about how we are supposed to behave and be treated in romantic relationships.
I Wish I Had Known: Domestic Violence
Marilyn’s powerful reflections remind us how the warning signs of abuse can be missed and also sheds light on the ways religion or faith can be misused to perpetuate abuse.
I Wish I Had Known That Time Does Not Heal All Wounds
Dan’s photographs and statement shine a light on a truth that is too often overlooked: boys and men also experience dating violence and they underscores the critical role therapy can play in healing and recovery.
I Wish I Had Known: Knowing Might Not Have Mattered
The poem by Brooke sheds light on one of the most lasting and harmful impacts of dating violence: self-blame.
I Wish I Had Known to Listen to My Gut
Rebecca’s video challenges the dangerous myth that abuse is easy to recognize or limited to certain kinds of people and also explores one of the most disorienting tactics in abusive relationships: love bombing.
I Wish I Had Known That Abuse Doesn’t Always Start with a Hit
Claudia’s essay is a powerful reminder that relationship abuse can touch any life, and that every survivor’s voice has the power to spark change.
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When we talk with adults about our work, one reflection comes up again and again: “I wish someone had taught me this when I was a teen.” And they’re right—learning how to build healthy relationships early can change the course of a young person’s life. It can prevent harm, foster confidence, and set the stage for fulfilling relationships for years to come. Our I Wish I had Known Campaign helps us highlight the importance of our work.
Please also consider making a donation in honor of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Your generosity will directly reach over 600 young people this year, equipping them with knowledge, skills, and resources that can transform their lives.
Will you help us give teens the relationships they deserve? Donate now —because every teen deserves a healthy, happy start.
All contributions are tax deductible.
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