Program Overview

Day One partners with New York City youth to end dating abuse and domestic violence through community education, supportive services, legal advocacy and leadership development. All of our programs operate on an empowerment model that invests young people in maintaining safe relationships for themselves and their peers, and engages youth in designing projects tailored to raise awareness in their communities. All services for youth are free and available in English and Spanish.

Our Community Education Program offers interactive, law-based workshops that educate youth in public school classes, after-school programs and foster care group homes; we train social service providers, teachers and parents on domestic violence and the law. The Legal Services Program provides free and confidential information, advocacy and representation in family and criminal courts to youth under the age of 22 from low-income families. Day One conducts policy advocacy to increase rights for youth in local schools and the justice system. Through our Peer Leadership Program, we organize students and build leadership skills among college-aged youth. Students educate their peers, design education systems, develop materials, and perform outreach and advocacy.

A Day One staff member holds a "Not a Wifebeater" tank top created by a student.