Frequently Asked Questions: For Teens


I am serious about ending teen dating abuse and making healthy relationships a priority, but I have never volunteered or been trained before.  Can I still apply to be a Peer Ambassador?

Definitely!!  We are lucky to have teens that have a ton of experience and have been volunteering for a long time join us, but we are even luckier when a teen who has never done something formally believes strongly enough to join our team. The insight and information you can bring to the table is priceless, and we value that diversity. 


So how do I apply?  What are the requirements? 

You need to fill out at an application (link) and follow the directions. First and foremost, we encourage you to talk to your parents; you do need their permission. You also need a reference, someone to tell us how great you are! It can be anyone but a family member.  Loveisrespect Leadership will evaluate each application and determine who our new Peer Ambassadors will be, but you should meet the following guidelines:

  • Be between the ages of 16 and 19 by July 1, 2009.
  • Attend the inital training session in Dallas, TX from Friday, October 9 through Sunday, October 11. (Travel, meals and hotel expenses will be paid for by loveisrespect during the weekend.)
  • Be able to commit two to five hours per week to this project for one year.
  • Be willing to work with others respectfully.
  • Adhere to loveisrespect mission and values around teen dating abuse and healthy relationships.
  • Have access to a computer and the Internet, at school or at home.


How will I know I have been chosen?  What are my chances?  What happens after I’m selected?

We can’t say what your chances are, but it never hurts to try! Joining the loveisrespect Peer Ambassador program can be the opportunity of a lifetime. Those selected to be a Youth Ambassador will receive an e-mail and letter of notification by August 31, 2009.  The letter will be accompanied with a detailed information packet including travel information.  We will be working with you right away to arrange your trip to Dallas, TX.

 
What are we going to do as Peer Ambassadors?  How much time will it take?

As a member of the loveisrespect Peer Ambassadors we will ask that you be willing to spend two to five hours each week on various projects. Activities and projects may include the making of a public service announcement, holding an outreach event at your high school, creating a new poster, or participating in an online conversation with people in government, the media and schools about what teen dating abuse looks like for real! Your voice will be very important in keeping the work of loveisrespect centered on teens! There may be media stuff but that will all be taken care of by loveisrespect Leadership.

 
What will I get out of being a loveisrespect Peer Ambassador?

First, you’ll get a free trip to TEXAS where everything is bigger and better! (We Texans like to joke about that even though it’s true.) You’ll also have an opportunity to educate your friends and family about what healthy relationships look like, and you’ll have something to put on your college applications!

 
Do I have to go to Dallas for training?  Do I have to pay for it?

Yes and no. Yes, to be a loveisrespect Peer Ambassador you must attend the training in Dallas, TX October 9-11.  No, we will foot the bill your airfare or mileage, meals and hotel during your stay. We’ll even make your travel arrangements for you.  Just bring your toothbrush and be ready to have fun!

If you have more questions about what the loveisrespect Peer Ambassadors do, what loveisrespect, National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline does, whether this is something you should do, or what you will get out of participating in this program, please contact Candice Hopkins, Director of loveisrespect, at chopkins@loveisrespect.org or (512) 794-1133.