On Friday, February 24, Gwen’s Girls will host its 2nd Annual Teen Dating Violence Awareness event from 5-7 p.m. at the New Hazlett Theater, 6 Allegheny Square East. The event, called Real Talk: Keys to Healthy Relationships, is being hosted in recognition of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.

The program will feature a video presentation, panel discussion, and Q&A session with local community partners. The event is appropriate for ages 10 and up.

“At Gwen’s Girls, prevention and education is essential,” Executive Director Kathi Elliot said. “We hope that by making this program an annual event, we will continue to empower the girls to make healthy choices in their relationships and beyond.”

Gwen’s Girls has partnered with several local organizations and community members for this event who are dedicated to creating awareness of teen dating violence, including the Women’s Center & Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh and WAAR.

According to the CDC, dating violence is the physical, psychological, sexual, or emotional violence or abuse within a dating relationship. In a 2011 CDC survey, approximately 10% of high school students reported either physical or sexual violence from a dating partner — however, victims do not always report abuse.

The event is free, but registration is required. To register, click here.