Voices
Voices is a program of self- discovery and empowerment. Through creative expression and group discussions, participants build confidence, heal, and discover their strength.
The group fosters self-discovery, helping each girl see herself not as a victim, but as a survivor with a voice that matters. It empowers them to speak up, find healing, and take control of their futures, transforming pain into resilience and hope.
Who Commits Sexual Violence Against Teens?
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10.1% of girls were victimized by a stranger.
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43.6% og girls were victimized by an acquaintance.
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27.7% of girls were victimized by a family member.
Teens who experience sexual violence may suffer from mental health conditions that may include but are not limited to:
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
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Eating Disorders
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Low Self-esteem
According to the CDC’s Youth Behavior Survey, U.S high school students reported the following:
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About 1 in 12 teens experienced physical dating violence
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About 1 in 10 teens experienced sexual dating violence
Some teens are at a greater risk than others. Female students experienced higher rates of violence than male students.
Voices is a program that celebrates you!
Our voices are the ways we share who we are with those around us. Our voices tell the stories of our life experiences, hopes, feelings and beliefs. This is a place for you to share your VOICE. Sharing your voice is a gift to yourself and to others.
Your VOICE tells a unique story. Only you can draw on its experience, strength and meaning. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s easy to lose track of the special traits in ourselves. This program was created to support you on a journey of self-discovery. It will help you to connect with yourself and with what is important to you.
self discovery and empowerment exercises
Current Modules and Activities
Getting to know Ourselves
In the Getting to know Ourselves module one of the key activites for this activity is the Looking Back at my Life’s Journey. In this activity participants will write down the names of people and experiences that have made a significant impact on who they are today.
Connecting with Others
In the Others module, participants will do various activities. One of these activities includes the Connections activity. During this participants will map out their relationships and learn about Healthy connections even more.
Journey Ahead
In the Journey Ahead module, one of the activities that participants will be doing is the Hopes and Dream activity. During this activity participants will be planning their exciting journey ahead and all the potential possibilities.
Interested in the Voices Group?
Do you want to learn more about healthy relationships, boundaries, and how to recognize and prevent sexual and domestic violence? The Voices Group is an educational and supportive space for teens to come together, share their thoughts, and build awareness around these important issues. You’ll gain knowledge, confidence, and a community of peers who care about making a difference.
Contact Kayla or Maggie for more information and to sign up. We’d love to hear from you!
Kayla Clark
Email: k.clark@tlc.ngo
Phone: 540.667.6160 extension 118
Voices Group Information
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May 6th – June 24th 2025
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Tuesdays (Virtually)
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5pm – 6:30pm
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Girls aged 14-17 years old
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Over the course of 8 weeks
Maggie Cortes
Email: m.cortes@tlc.ngo
Phone: 540.667.6160 extension 119
The Laurel Center services are open to all persons regardless of race, ethnicity, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender and/or gender identity, ability, national origin, and other characteristics protected by federal, state or local laws.
Contact
P.O. Box 14
Winchester, VA. 22604
24-Hour Hotline: 540-667-6466
Business Line: 540-667-6160
Fax: 540-667-0138