About Us
Young Leaders Against Violence (YLAV) is a local youth-led coalition focused on dating and sexual abuse awareness and prevention. The group is made up of high school and college students from Kent County that share a common interest in eliminating violence from our community. The group meets twice a month to organize events, social media campaigns, movie screenings and meetings with community leaders. YLAV is mentored by the leadership of three local agencies: Safe Haven Ministries, Cherry Health and the Kent County Health Department.
For inquiries about YLAV or for partnership opportunities, please email stopviolencegrteens@gmail.com. Registration is open for the 2018 school year. We accept applications on a rolling basis so don’t wait to apply. For more information please see the section below.
Application
The group meets twice a month to brainstorm and implement various outreach projects ranging from grant writing to school displays and social media campaigns.
Some of the activities and campaigns YLAV has organized over the last year include designing sexual assault awareness coffee sleeves that were used at Lantern Coffee Bar and Lounge during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, as well as a screening of the Hunting Ground followed by a facilitated discussion at Celebration! Cinema.
YLAV is mentored by the leadership of four local agencies: Safe Haven Ministries, Family Futures, the Kent County Health Department, and YWCA West Central Michigan.
YLAV is now accepting applications.
Young Leaders Against Violence (YLAV) is a local youth-led coalition focused on dating and sexual abuse awareness and prevention. The group is made up of exceptional students from Kent County universities, high schools, and middle schools all with a common interest in eliminating violence from our communities.
NO MORE Week of Action 2018 is March 4-10!
Blog
Resources
Hotlines & Resources
- October Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- Comic
- Dating Abuse
- Dating Violence Statistics
- Domestic Violence
- Sexual Assault
- Other Resources
Although domestic violence has seen a decline in recent years, there are still millions — millions — of Americans who endure it each year, whether it’s sexual, physical, or emotional in nature.
At the same time as victimization rates are decreasing, domestic violence shelters report more people asking for help. These signs are encouraging, but there is still a lot to do and many people in need of support.
Most people know someone that is abusive or is being abused. Here are some resources to keep informed and know how to help.
Safe & Responsible Use of Electronic Devices
The comic is for middle and high school age youth. Topic is safe and responsible use of electronic devices – no nudes! Dealing with street harassment – report it! Example of good communication in a relationship – talk about stuff you're not sure about!
Love is Respect National Dating Abuse Hotline
All calls and chats are anonymous and confidential. You can call (866) 331-9474.
Highly-trained peer advocates offer support, information and advocacy to young people who have questions or concerns about their dating relationships. We also provide information and support to concerned friends and family members, teachers, counselors, service providers and members of law enforcement. Free and confidential phone, live chat and texting services are available 24/7/365.
Chat at
Text loveis to 22522*
Call (866) 331-9474, (866) 331-8453 TTY)
That’s Not Cool
Your cell phone, IM, and social media networks are all part of you. When someone disrespects, harasses, or pressures you that’s not cool! Not sure if a situation is abusive or not? This site offers education and advice on how to handle these situations.
1 in 3 teens in the U.S. is a victim of
In 2010, the percentage of violence perpetrated by strangers and non-strangers
Teens in violent relationships are often victims of the
In the U.S., on average,
In the U.S, from 2009 – 2012,
YWCA West Central Michigan
25 Sheldon Blvd.
SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Domestic Violence Crisis Services & Emergency Shelter (no cost & confidential)
24-hour crisis hotline (616) 451-2744 / TTY
(616) 233-4718
Safe Haven Ministries
3501 Lake Eastbrook Blvd.
Suite 335
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Domestic Violence Crisis Services &
Emergency Shelter (no cost & confidential)
24-hour crisis hotline (616) 452-6664
YWCA West Central Michigan
25 Sheldon Blvd. SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Program (No cost services are for adults & children)
To arrange for an appointment 24-hours a day, call (616) 776-RAPE, (616) 776-7273, your local police, or 911.
The YWCA provides comprehensive, timely, and sensitive medical-forensic examinations. Receiving immediate and follow-up medical attention is one of the most important things that you can do for yourself if you have been sexually assaulted. You may have injuries that need to be treated, and you may want to address and receive treatment for the possibility of pregnancy and contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
National 24-HoursTelephone Hotline
Call (800) 656-HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.
How can the hotline help me?
Calling the National Sexual Assault Hotline gives you access to a range of free services including:
• Confidential, judgment-free support from a trained staff member.
• Support finding a local health facility that is trained to care for survivors of sexual assault and offers services like sexual assault forensic exams.
• Someone to help you talk through what happened.
• Local resources that can assist with your next steps toward healing and recovery.
• Referrals for long term support in your area.
• Information about the laws in your area.
• Basic information about medical concerns.
YLAV Presentation to Kent County Board of Commissioners:
Download