Through our H.E.A.R.T. (Healthy Emotions and Attitudes in Relationships Today Program), we have developed a digital advocacy component to better be able to meet our teens, pre-teens and young adult where they our. After we have left the classroom we have designed a way for our teens to reach our for help, support, and resources. We set up our H.E.A.R.T. chat and text line, which allows teens to text or live chat with an advocate online so that they do not have to call our hotline for services. This presentation will cover the dynamics of the program and the impact it is having on our local youth.

Presenter:
Jennifer Ponce, CHES is Prevention & Education Manager with Laura’s House, a nonprofit that offers shelter and services to domestic violence survivors in Orange County, Calif. She is a Certified Health Education Specialist and graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Community Health with an emphasis in Community Health Education. She will be completing her Master of Social Work degree from Boston University in 2018. For the last 10 years Jennifer has implemented community outreach and education programs domestically and internationally. She is passionate about social welfare and providing education and resources to at-risk communities and victims of violence. Jennifer has been featured on 102.7 KIIS-FM & AM 790 – KABC Talk Radio, as well as in The Orange County Register, Orange County Family Magazine, and Attorney Journal OC. Jennifer is a speaker and guest lecturer at high schools, universities, and at national conferences.