What is Start Strong?

Start Strong is a national program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) in collaboration with the Family Violence Prevention Fund (FVPF). It is currently the largest funded national initiative aimed at preventing relationship violence and abuse among young people by promoting healthy relationship behaviors.

Who is responsible for this initiative?

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and Blue Shield of California Foundation (BSCF) are investing $18 million in the overall Start Strong initiative. RWJF is funding ten sites around the country and BSCF is funding one site in California. The Family Violence Prevention Fund is RWJF’s National Program Office (NPO) for Start Strong, providing direction and assistance to all sites. In collaboration with RWJF, the Family Violence Prevention Fund works closely with the sites to tailor the national Start Strong program to local needs.

Why are health foundations investing in teen dating violence prevention?

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Blue Shield of California Foundation* are making an unprecedented investment to discover innovative and practical solutions to teen dating violence and abuse. There is a strong connection between our overall health and our social environment. Teen dating violence and abuse is a serious public health problem and is associated with higher levels of drug and alcohol abuse, unplanned pregnancy, STDs, depression and anxiety. Start Strong is taking prevention to a new level by supporting 11- to- 14-year-olds to build healthier relationships throughout their lives.

What makes this program unique?

Start Strong is the largest investment in innovative grass-roots efforts focused on this age group (11- to- 14-year-olds) to prevent teen dating violence and abuse. We are working together with teens, parents, caregivers, educators, healthcare professionals, domestic violence advocates, and community leaders to build environments that support healthy relationships and ensure violence and abuse are never tolerated.

Who is the target for this program?

This initiative will target 11- to- 14-year-old youth. In addition to reaching this age group, Start Strong communities will also be engaging “teen influencers,” such as older teens (ages 15 to 18), parents/caregivers, teachers, counselors, coaches, and other mentors.

How will Start Strong make a difference?

By educating our youth and empowering communities to lead, design and implement teen dating violence prevention programs, Start Strong aims to change the way young people view their dating relationships and what behaviors are healthy and acceptable.

What are the components of the Start Strong model?

There are four core strategies to the Start Strong model: education, community engagement, policy change, and communications and social marketing.

How long is this grant effective?

The Start Strong grant funds will be allocated to eleven sites over four years from November 2008 to 2012.