How YMCA of Greater Louisville Is Leading Teen Development Through Education, Prevention, and Empowerment

The YMCA of Greater Louisville has long been a trusted leader in teen development, safety, and prevention-focused education. Through evidence-based programs and strong community partnerships, the Y is investing in teens today to help build confident, informed, and compassionate leaders for tomorrow.

During February’s Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, this commitment comes to life through In Their Shoes, an immersive, interactive workshop designed to support teens and the adults who care about them.

Why Teen Dating Violence Prevention Is Essential for Youth Development

Teen dating violence impacts 1 in 3 teens. This reality shows the urgent need for education, awareness, and prevention, especially as teens navigate increasingly complex social environments, digital communication, and real-world pressures.

At the YMCA, teen programming goes beyond activities and recreation. It’s about providing young people with life skills, emotional intelligence, and the confidence to make healthy choices. When teens understand what respectful, healthy relationships look like, they’re better prepared to lead in school, at home, and in their communities.

In Their Shoes: An Evidence-Based Teen Dating Violence Prevention Program

In Their Shoes is an evidence-based, immersive workshop that helps teens and adults better understand what dating looks like in today’s world. Participants “step into the shoes” of one of six characters, each based on real teen experiences.

Through guided scenarios and interactive decision-making, participants explore topics including:

• Sexting and digital boundaries
• Pregnancy and personal responsibility
• Homophobia, identity, and belonging
• Stalking and controlling behaviors

This hands-on approach encourages empathy, sparks conversation, and helps participants recognize both healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors, which is a critical component of effective teen safety education.

Community Partnerships Strengthening Teen Safety and Education

This impactful programming is made possible through collaboration with The Center for Women and Families and the Louisville Metro Office for Women. Together, these organizations and the YMCA of Greater Louisville are creating safe, supportive spaces for learning, dialogue, and prevention.

These partnerships reflect the Y’s belief that strong teen development programs are rooted in community, where trusted organizations come together to address real challenges facing young people.

Free Teen Workshops Open to the Community

All In Their Shoes workshops are free and open to the public, and registration is not required. Teens, parents, caregivers, educators, and community members are encouraged to attend.

Workshop Schedule:

• February 4 | 5:30–7:30pm
  Southwest Family YMCA
• February 11 | 5:30–7:30pm
  Republic Bank Foundation YMCA
• February 18 | 5:30–7:30pm
  YMCA Safe Place Services
• February 25 | 6–8pm
  YMCA at Norton Commons

How the YMCA Builds Safer, Stronger Futures for Teens

With a presence across neighborhoods throughout Greater Louisville and Southern Indiana, the Y creates trusted environments where teens feel seen, supported, and empowered. While In Their Shoes is highlighted during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, it reflects the YMCA’s year-round commitment to teen safety education, healthy relationship development, and prevention-focused programming.

By investing in teens today, the YMCA is helping shape the leaders of tomorrow: young people who are informed, confident, and ready to build stronger, healthier communities for generations to come.