First-Of-Its-Kind Digital Program Empowers Students To Build Positive Relationships

During a school-wide assembly, the digital course utilized evidence-based strategies to educate students on healthy relationships, how to communicate and how to resolve conflict.  Students participated in a panel discussion featuring domestic violence experts and advocates.  Panel members included representatives from Mary Kay Inc., The National Domestic Violence Hotline, loveisrespect and the Austin Independent School District. 

"As educators, we are always thinking of creative and effective ways to prepare our youth for the future," said Monica De La Garza-Conness, Principal at Martin Middle School. "Leveraging innovative technology, like the Healthy Foundations program, allows our students to explore situations that they may encounter, but in a way that is safe, self-guided, and interactive. Martin Middle School was truly honored to be the school chosen as the location for the launch."

The Healthy Foundations program is part of Mary Kay's Don't Look Away campaign which works to educate the public on recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship and how to take action.  In addition to the digital course and panel discussion, the event also featured the unveiling of a "Don't Look Away" mural developed by middle school students depicting the theme of healthy relationships.  The mural will remain on display at Martin Middle School.

"Through this innovative program, we are able to raise awareness and give middle school age students the tools for building healthy relationships and therefore, helping to prevent dating abuse before it begins," said Kirsten Gappelberg, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability for Mary Kay Inc.  "By teaching effective communication, conflict resolution and how to step in when a friend is being hurt, we can empower youth with the foundations for healthy relationships now and into the future." 

To date, Mary Kay Inc. and The Mary Kay Foundation have given $53 million to domestic violence prevention and awareness programs in an effort to end the cycle of abuse.  Mary Kay is also the lead sponsor of the nation's first-ever text-based dating abuse hotline operated by loveisrespect.  For more information about Mary Kay's commitment to end domestic violence, click here.

About Mary Kay
Irresistible products. Positive community impact. Rewarding opportunity. For more than 50 years, Mary Kay has offered it all. With 3.5 million Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultants and $4 billion in global annual sales, Mary Kay is a top beauty brand and direct seller in more than 35 markets around the world. Discover what there is to love about Mary Kay by connecting with a Mary Kay Independent Beauty Consultant at marykay.com.

About loveisrespect.org
Loveisrespect.org is the ultimate source of support, tools and services to help young people prevent and end dating abuse, inspiring them to create a culture of healthy relationships.  The 24/7 chat, text and phone crisis services and vast library of information provide young people with options, answers and support every hour of every day.  Break the Cycle and the National Dating Abuse Helpline designed the program specifically for young people, emphasizing confidentiality and trust to ensure teens nationwide feel safe and supported – online and off.  Find out more at www.loveisrespect.org. 

About EverFi Inc.
EverFi, Inc. is the education technology innovator that empowers K-12, higher education, and adult learners with the skills needed to be successful in life. Its comprehensive critical skills platform is focused on Financial Education, Digital Citizenship, STEM Career Readiness, Diversity and Inclusion, Entrepreneurship, Character Education, and Health and Wellness. The EverFi Education Network is powered by more than 3,300 partner organizations across all 50 states and Canada and annually reaches 6 million learners. Learn more at www.everfi.com.

Mary Kay Inc. Corporate Communications
marykay.com/newsroom
972.687.5332 or [email protected]    

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20161117/440774
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SOURCE Mary Kay Inc.

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