The Chesterfield County Coordinating Council (CCCC) is requesting an extension of its "Stop the Violence" project using money left over from last year's campaign to fund it.

If not used, the CCCC would have to return the funds to the Clemson University Institute for Family and Life, which administrates the project from the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Determining the campaign's merit, the CCCC Stop the Violence committee met last week to discuss ways to stretch the unused funds through next May.

Last year, about 2,000 crisis cards were distributed through florists around the county. Also, awards were given to students producing the best "Stop the Violence" posters.

This year, the campaign is working to include all four county high schools in the poster contest and have more essay and art contests to increase public awareness.

CCCC is continuing its Safe Dates program at McBee High School and trying to expand it to another high school. Part of the project is obtaining useful data on family and relationship violence. The group will survey students from grades six through 12.

CCCC is searching for an interested volunteer to lead a performance-based student group as part of a countywide cultural arts program. Interested volunteers may contact Margaret Plettinger Mitchell, 623-5274.

Gale Baker may be reached at galebaker@thecherawchronicle.com.