JWI understands that prevention is critical to breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Since the Kraft Employee Fund Chicago helped JWI launch abuse prevention efforts in the Chicagoland community, we have worked in partnership with Response Center to present workshops and inspire dialogues among those who work with teens and young adults. Audiences include professionals, advocates, and youth leaders such as Hillel staff, youth group advisors, camp counselors, synagogue leadership, and educators. 

When Push Comes to Shove . . . It’s No Longer Love!® is JWI’s healthy relationships toolkit, an educational product that includes a documentary film, discussion guide and awareness materials for teens and young adults. A courageous group of young people agreed to share their relationship abuse experiences with JWI on film. The resulting documentary is a power tool for revealing the insidious nature of abuse and its manifestations in the context of dating relationships. Text study, an integral part of the discussion guide, opens a discussion about the value Judaism places on respect and healthy relationships. Guided exercises provide additional tools for self-reflection, heightened awareness, and sharing personal matters in a safe environment. Public awareness materials include posters and brochures. 

In March 2006, JWI partnered with Shalva and The Response Center to present A Jewish Perspective on Gender, Power & Relationships, a training in Skokie for professionals and advocates who work with Jewish teens and young adults.  The Hadassah Foundation provided generous support for this day-long training event. The keynote address, The Evaded Curriculum, was delivered by Dr. Shira D. Epstein, assistant professor at the Davidson Graduate School, Jewish Theological Seminary, NY. 

Strong Girls, Healthy Relationships: A Conversation on Dating, Friendship & Self-Esteem,  is a thought-provoking curriculum written specifically to help Jewish 9th and 10th grade girls delve into the subjects of empowerment and self-esteem in the context of the relationships they build, the way they perceive themselves and how they envision their futures. The toolkit includes a copy of the film When Push Comes to Shove…, a detailed facilitator’s guide and journaling workbooks for 10 participants.Through a series of structured discussions and activities spread over six sessions, girls talk, write, and learn about healthy relationships and teen dating abuse. Formal and informal educators can deliver the curriculum in high schools, youth groups and summer camps. 

For more information about JWI’s healthy relationship programs, contact Rella Kaplowitz, Program Specialist, at rkaplowitz@jwi.org or 800.343.2823.