LANSING - The Michigan Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Board today unveiled a teen dating violence Web site, www.michigan.gov/datingviolence, to help teens and young adults recognize the signs of dating violence, stalking, sexual assault and domestic violence and how to seek help for themselves or for their friends experiencing violence.

The Web site also honors Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm's proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan.

"The seeds of domestic violence often germinate at early ages as young teens experience dating relationships," said Debi Cain, director of the Michigan Domestic Violence Prevention and Treatment Board. "The more we do to educate all ages and help connect individuals with resources and programs, the more we can do to prevent all forms of violence in relationships."

The board, whose members are appointed by the governor, is charged with efforts to eliminate domestic violence and is housed within the Michigan Department of Human Services. It provides support and grant funding for local organizations that will be hosting individual events through the state to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The teen dating violence Web site, developed with input from teens and domestic violence service providers, serves as a companion to the educational materials released in 2006 to all Michigan public, private and alternative high schools. These materials also are available now in Spanish.

A 2005 report from the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center identified 58 intimate partner homicides and 70,056 domestic violence offenses. One in every five high school students reports being physically or sexually abused by a dating partner.

"Domestic and dating violence affects all ages and all races," said DHS Director Ismael Ahmed. "It impacts every person's humanity. Our partnerships with local community organizations are critical in serving victims of domestic violence and helping to educate people about the devastating impact of abusive behavior."

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, local domestic violence programs throughout the state will offer a variety of events. Please contact your local domestic violence program to find out more information about events scheduled in your area. The national hotline for help with domestic violence is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) voice and 800-787-3224 TTY.