Carmen Simmons is involved with Start Strong Atlanta because she is committed to increasing awareness and knowledge of teen related issues. She believes that educating her peers will help them make good decisions.

Carmen was selected to be a teen representative because of her commitment to educating teens about healthy relationships. “My generation is plagued by many misconceptions about teen dating violence. Most believe domestic violence comes in a physical form. I also thought that domestic violence was only physical. Once I joined Start Strong, I was able to distinguish different signs of dating violence that stray from the "classic" abuse most think of. I have even been able to reflect on my past relationships and recognize abusive tendencies my partners have exhibited. I am thankful I am no longer in these relationships. Now I feel an obligation to educate the many forms of teen dating violence and the characteristics of a healthy relationship to my loved ones and peers. I'm planting the seed of knowledge in my community and watching it grow into something beautiful.”

Carmen is a rising senior at Mays High School in Atlanta where she is an honor roll student. Carmen works as teen leader at a public hospital teen clinic where she assists the implemention of a health education program focused on postponing early sexual activity for 8^th grade students in Atlanta. In addition, Carmen is a dancer for her high school band, an active member of the drama club, and hopes to one day become a doctor.