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High School Choirs Support Shelter And Get Lesson In Relationships

Jordy Yager/Radio IQ

Eleven female choirs came together in Charlottesville over the weekend to help raise money for the area’s domestic violence shelter.

More than 500 people packed into Monticello High School for the 4th annual WinterSongs concert on Saturday. It put the spotlight on young female vocalists from six area middle schools and five high schools, with all donations going to the Shelter for Help in Emergency, the region’s domestic violence shelter.

The event was created as a way to empower young girls. And Charlottesville High School got the show started.

Before the concert, about 150 young girls met for an hour-long seminar put on by staff with the Shelter for Help in Emergency and Planned Parenthood. They talked about what abusive relationships look like and what to do if you find yourself in one.

“One in three teens is a victim of dating violence, so empowering teens, and especially young women at this age is crucial,” says Kat Dillon, the events coordinator for the shelter.

Credit Jordy Yager/Radio IQ
Hundreds of people watched the performances.

Dillon says that building self-esteem is essential, as well as teaching good communication skills, and…”teaching them how to set boundaries and how to maintain those boundaries, teaching them what the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship, and where to go for help, and where to go for help.”

This generation is dealing with old abusive patterns but in new arenas, says Dillon, such as cyber stalking or cyber abuse, which can feel more isolating. It’s one more reason why close-knit groups of trusted friends and adults are absolutely key.