As February, the month of love, draws to an end, it is appropriate to honor the One Love Foundation for its dedication to raising awareness to end relationship violence.

One Love was founded in 2010 after Yeardley Love, the founder’s daughter, was beaten to death by her ex-boyfriend.  Sharon Love, the founder, became passionate about putting an end to relationship violence, which affects 1 in 3 women.  Since 2010, the foundation has grown abundantly by holding workshops, giving talks, raising awareness through walking or running (#Yards4Yeardley), and initiating local club chapters.

According to the One Love website, the foundation “works with young people across the country to raise awareness about the warning signs of abuse and activate communities to work to change the statistics around relationship violence.”

Now, thanks to Abby Osmeyer and Ms. Hanley, One Love is now at Towson High School.  Amelia Kline, a member of the new club, and a family friend of the Loves was surprised when she heard a chapter was starting at THS, but also very excited about it: “I was really shocked; I didn’t know many people knew about it,” Kline said. “I’m really, really excited.”

High school is an environment where students are discovering who they are and enduring mental growth, so it is crucial to consistently remind students that relationship violence is not the answer.  “I feel that the issue of relationship abuse and early warning signs is so important to discuss with adolescents since for many, it’s the first time they are entering into serious relationships,” Ms. Hanley, Towson High guidance counselor, said.  As Yeardley’s story proves, undetected relationship violence can be deadly, and that end is not desirable for anyone.

The fight against relationship violence is honorable and necessary.  Ms. Kline hopes that students will grow in relationships and spread awareness of violence, but mainly that both teenagers and students will put a greater effort into being kind.

To promote One Love’s cause, candy grams from the members of the club were sent to others around the school on Valentine’s Day.  Each featured a chocolate kiss, a short note, and a hashtag: #THATSLOVE.  These Valentine’s gifts are an important reminder that knowing what real love is can be paramount to combatting relationship abuse.

To further display the attributes of real love, One Love’s poster across from the guidance office showcases several quotes about love, and signatures from the members of the club.

The club meets once a month and is directed by Ms. Hanley.  “My hope for this club is for the students to continue to bring light and raise awareness on relationship violence in order to better educate themselves and others.  I hope to have annual fundraisers for the club including the upcoming Yards for Yeardley.  I also hope to partner with local women and family centers for domestic violence and have speakers come to talk with the group,” Ms. Hanley concludes.

Be a five-star general — show citizenship by supporting the end of relationship violence with One Love.