Online educational tool could help reduce violence, bullying and abuse

As one of the largest non-profit organizations in the country, the Canadian Red Cross aims to stop violence, bullying and abuse against children and teens in school, at home and at play. A new educational program from the Canadian Red Cross promises a more direct and dynamic approach to the issue.

The Respect in School program aims to bring safety to schools by building a greater sense of community and respect. It helps adults develop and provide environments where children can learn and grow while feeling safe.

Respect in School is a 2.5 hour online educational program designed for all school personnel and anyone involved in education who interacts with students. It gives them the training and tools they need to take on leadership roles and understand, recognize and address behaviors like abuse, neglect, bullying and harassment. The goal is to build better classrooms and improve student morale and health through the development of a culture of respect.

The program is delivered through a partnership between the Canadian Red Cross and Respect Group, Inc. To provide the best user experience, the online program features benefits, such as the ability to save your progress and finish the course in your own time and at your own pace. The program also features on-going updates, as well as recertification, reporting and data-basing. It's also designed to have complete and cost-effective integration with a school's organizational infrastructure.

The program in action
The Canadian Red Cross has received support from the Government of Canada for a project in support of the prevention of relationship violence among Canadian youth and will be utilizing the Respect Group Inc. platform to spread the message of respect.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper's government initiative to end relationship violence among Canadian youth will be utilizing the online resource to spread the message of respect.

"Recent incidents demonstrate the need to do all we can to prevent the tragic consequences of violence, cyber-bullying, and online exploitation," said the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women. "Our Government is pleased to partner with the Canadian Red Cross and Respect Group Inc. on this project to prevent violence among Canadian teens."

The government initiative is in response to the recent increase in reported cases of young people involved in relationship violence and abuse. The program will focus specifically on Canadian youth ages 14 to 18 years old.

You can help support this Canadian Red Cross initiative and many others - just donate today online or at your local Canadian Red Cross office.