February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to recognize and address the warning signs of unhealthy relationships among young people. For teens who have experienced foster care or unstable home environments, recognizing a healthy relationship can be difficult. When early experiences are shaped by instability and trauma, unhealthy dynamics may feel familiar—sometimes even normal. Without positive examples, distinguishing between love and control, support and manipulation, or devotion and obsession can be challenging.
All young people deserve relationships built on trust, respect, and mutual care. However, those with past experiences of instability and hardship may unknowingly accept harmful behaviors that put their well-being at risk. By providing education and support, we can help break the cycle of unhealthy relationships and empower teens to build strong, positive connections.
At Landmarks for Families, we empower teens and families through comprehensive Education Services, including our Resiliency Skill Building Program for teens and Connection Group Workshops for parents. These initiatives help strengthen family bonds, instill self-worth, and provide essential skills for building safe and healthy relationships. Through our Education Services in Charleston, we provide essential resources to help youth and parents develop skills that foster safe and supportive relationships.
Resiliency Skill Building Program: Empowering Teens for Success
The Resiliency Skill Building Program is a research-based, after-school initiative designed to help students improve academic performance, attendance, and overall resilience. By equipping students with essential social and emotional skills, the program empowers them to overcome adversity, handle academic and social pressures, and build a foundation for success. Youth take part in individualized assessments and create their own personal success plans to empower them to reach their goals.
Implemented in school districts nationwide, this evidence-based program has been proven effective in developing six key social and emotional skills that drive academic success. During the program, students learn about these resiliency skills and build upon them to reach their goals. The six resiliency skills include:
- Valuing Education
- Health and Well-being
- Connectedness
- Academic Confidence
- Stress Management
- Intrinsic Motivation
Connection Group Workshops: Strengthening Family Bonds
Landmarks for Families’ Connection Group Workshop is a research-based family engagement program that allows parents and teens to learn about positive family relationships during their transition to adolescence. Through our parent education in Charleston, we provide families with the skills to strengthen their connections and support their children’s development.
Strong family relationships are essential for a teen’s emotional, social and academic development. These bonds serve as a foundation for lifelong well-being—but they require effort and intentionality to maintain.
Connection Group Workshops provide interactive activities, discussions, and practical tools to help families strengthen their relationships and improve communication. These workshops empower parents and teens to navigate adolescence together, fostering deeper connections and lasting support. The workshops are for families of preteens and teens between the ages of 10 and 17.
Connection Group Workshops include time for:
- Parents to explore challenges and strategies with other parenting adults
- Youth to explore family relationships with other youth
- Parents and youth to explore their relationships together
- Strategies and tools to connect and build trust with their families
We extend our deepest gratitude to Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina Foundation for their generous support in funding these life-changing programs. Their commitment helps us keep children safe in their homes and equips them with life skills to navigate the world confidently and resiliently. Thanks to their support, we can continue offering support for children in Charleston, South Carolina, ensuring that youth and families have the resources they need to thrive. Together, we are shaping a future where every teen recognizes their worth and builds relationships rooted in respect, trust and empowerment.
Landmarks for Families Is Here for You
With more than 230 years of experience supporting our nation’s children and families, Landmarks for Families is equipped to lead your child or family through life’s challenges. Whether on-site or in-home, our compassionate team is ready to meet you where you are with the services you need. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and speak with a member of our team.
