RAVEN is a youth violence prevention program, designed for youth ages 12-17 that have witnessed, perpetrated or have been a victim of violence. This is a 15-week program for boys and girls that provide information and skills to empower youth to make safer choices, avoid abusive behaviors, learn nonviolent alternatives, and share what they've learned with their peers. The youth also learn about teen dating violence and healthy relationships. The target audience for the RAVEN Youth Violence Prevention group includes youth who have been exposed to domestic violence, youth who resort to violence during conflict, or youth who live in environments that tolerate violence or abuse.

The RAVEN Youth Program will provide weekly violence prevention groups for youth. Groups will meet weekly at Riverbend Family Ministries and will be preceded by an assessment to ensure the youth are appropriate for the program. For more information or to set up an assessment, Riverbend Family Ministries at (618) 251-9790.

"The main focus of the program is to reach youth before they begin acting out feelings of frustration, fear, or anxiety in an unhealthy way. We see many youth who are unable to recognize their triggers or warning signs, and don't have the tools to choose non-abusive options," says Christopher Watson, the Youth/Adult Program Manager. "RAVEN wants youth to always have choices and not have to resort to violence or abuse when in conflict."