Austin ISD Athletics has been doing its part to promote safe and healthy relationships during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

In partnership with the Travis County Sheriff's Office, Texas Advocacy Project and SAFE, student-athletes have been wearing purple ribbons in October to encourage others to stand up against dating and domestic violence.

“Student-athletes can engage their fellow students in conversation about dating, social media and bullying,” said Sheriff Sally Hernandez. “They can interject their opinions about treating each other with kindness and respect and use their influence as leaders in their respective schools to set a standard of healthy behavior.”

In addition to the helmet stickers worn by players during district football games, announcements made before and during each contest aim to increase awareness.

Coaches from multiple sports received educational materials on how to support young people in becoming positive role models.

Any students who need immediate assistance should first turn to the School Resource Officer on campus. If the danger is not imminent, students are encouraged to contact one of the resources listed below:

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE)
  Provides confidential, one-on-one support to each caller. Bilingual advocates are on hand to speak with callers, and the group's language line offers translations in more than 170 languages.
  The hotline is also a good source of help for concerned friends, family, coworkers and others seeking information and guidance on how to help someone they know.
• SAFE PLACE 24/7 Hotline (512-267-SAFE)
  Provides safety for individuals and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault exploitation through campus-based prevention and intervention services.
  In addition, the organization promotes safe and healthy relationships, increasing the capacity for abuse prevention in Central Texas.
• Texas Advocacy Project (800-374-HOPE)
  Provides FREE legal services statewide to victims of domestic and dating violence, sexual assault and stalking.