Hi Michigan Team,

November is National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM), spearheaded each year by the National Runaway Safeline (NRS) and National Network for Youth (NN4Y).

The goals of NRPM are two-fold:

-To raise awareness of the runaway and homeless youth crisis and the issues that these young people face

-To educate the public about solutions and the role they can play in ending youth homelessness

Keep in mind that between 1.6 and 2.8 million youth run away in a year. If all of these young people lived in one city, it would be the fifth largest city in the United States.

The theme of NRPM 2017 is “Friends Helping Friends.” This theme is designed to recognize the role key people play in the lives of at-risk youth. Our goal is to unite all communities together to help support youth as they navigate their world.

There are many materials to support you in promoting NRPM:

-Download the NRPM 2017 ToolKit and Messaging Guide , which includes information on easy ways to get involved, event planning, fundraising, and getting the word out.

-Spread the word about NRPM through a media press release with our Sample Press Release

-Make a request to your local elected official to sign a proclamation for NRPM. Sample Proclamation Request

-Click here for the link to our first national event, Facebook Profile Picture Day Nov. 22nd by downloading a “selfie sign” and posting your “Friends Helping Friends” story on social media.

In addition, National Runaway Safeline has other materials to use:

-A free, evidence-based, interactive, runaway prevention curriculum intended to educate young people about alternatives to running away as well as to build life skills

-Promotional materials free of charge including posters, bookmarks, brochures, and wallet cards

-A prevention specialist to lead a youth group discussion by phone

https://www.1800runaway.org/runaway-prevention-month/