Chesterfield County Coordinating Council's “Stop the Violence” campaign received 350 surveys from local high school students about personal observations and experiences with violence.

The data will be used to assist in determining areas that need targeting in the fight against violence among youth. The survey is part of a federally funded Clemson University study.

Winter Williams Brandon reported 100 percent participation in two classes at Cheraw and Pageland High Schools.

The “Safe Dates” program at McBee High School is scheduled to wrap up soon with the program starting at Central High in the coming weeks. The programs are taught during health classes.

Amy Rushing, Chesterfield County coordinator and victim's advocate for Pee Dee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Assault, and prevention coordinator Devin Patrick held open discussions on violence youth at Central and McBee high schools.

Citing frustration at how the justice system often re-victimizes victims, Rushing said, “We must not lose sight of what we're doing. We have to stop these young girls from these relationships before they happen.”

Margaret Plettinger-Mitchell, coordinator for CCCC said, “It is up to us to build our youth and prevent these relationships from developing.”

Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between ages 15 and 44. Battering occurs among all people of all races, ages, socio-economic classes, religious affiliations, occupations and educational backgrounds.

According to a Clark County, Ind., Web site, one woman is beaten by her husband or partner every 15 seconds in the United States, yet the most under-reported crime in America is battering of women.

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