In honor of Teen Dating Violence Awareness month, the Sarah’s Inn Youth Committee has coordinated with Kribi Coffee to host an open mic night centered around the theme of “What I Wish I Knew.” Participants can perform in any artistic medium they desire, whether it be music, dance, spoken word or even improv. The only requirement is that their art relates to the evening’s theme. 

In past years, the Youth Committee has been focused almost entirely on raising awareness, in events such as last February’s “Love is Learned” community discussion. However, this year Youth Committee members and Sarah’s Inn Prevention Team staff have worked together to organize an event designed around action.

As the open mic commences, Sarah’s Inn employees and volunteers will be stationed at tables around the room with pamphlets and informational papers about teen dating violence. Attendees are encouraged to wander around the tables and learn more about the foundation and purpose of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month and what they can do to help. 

The goal of the event is to spread awareness about teen dating violence while simultaneously building community connection over shared experiences and emotions. The cycle of shame around teen dating violence and unhealthy relationships is difficult to break, but the Youth Committee is focused on doing it one step at a time. In order to break this cycle, the community must be willing to participate – and this is the perfect opportunity to do so. 

The “What I Wish I Knew” open mic will take place Thursday, Feb. 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Kribi Coffee in Forest Park.

If any student wishes to join the Youth Committee and gain valuable experience and community service hours, visit sarahsinn.org/youth-committee. Meetings are held every other Thursday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Sarah’s Inn in Forest Park. Join the Youth Committee to discuss more about dating violence, breaking the cycle of abuse and other important relationship topics.