The My Life Club Supporting Young Women in taking charge of their lives Monterey County Rape Crisis Center Rape Prevention & Education Services Presented by Tarah Fischer & Cynthia Patterson

The History of My Life

Listening to the Needs of our Community Mystrength “Sprinkling” versus “Saturation” Comprehensive Primary Prevention

Getting started…. Research Curriculum/Content Collaboration

Evidence-based Primary Prevention Effective prevention programs: Reduce risk-factors and promote protective factors Are comprehensive Have measurable goals and objectives

Risk & Protective Factors Protective Factors Healthy communication and coping skills Positive role models Value in self and others Risk Factors Adherence to rigid, gender-oppressive norms Stereotypical attitudes/beliefs about sexual violence Perception of violence as “normal”

My Life Objectives Decrease risk factors that contribute to sexual violence and gender oppression Promote protective factors that support healthy adolescent development and future success Build skills and experience mobilizing positive community change and supporting a beloved community

Women in the Media

Guest Presenters

Campus Activities

Beloved Community

SUCCESSES CHALLENGES

Challenges Capacity The schools “Youth Driven” versus “Objective driven”

Successes What does the My Life club mean to you? “It means a great deal to me. It means family,” (club member, Everett Alvarez High School, 2011) “It means hope and strength. It means rightful moral action and compassion. It means fortitude and empathy,” (club member, Pacific Grove High School, 2011) “The My Life club is a place to have fun, but also to discuss important issues and receive some education on these topics,” (club member, Pacific Grove High School, 2011) “My Life is a movement, an empowerment for girls. My Life gives girls like me a voice,” ( club member, Marina High School, 2011)

Why does ending sexual violence matter to you? "Ending sexual violence is the start to ending other types of violence,” (My Life club member, Marina High School, 2011).

Questions? Feel free to contact us anytime! Tarah Fischer: Cynthia Patterson:

THANK YOU!