Coffee & Conversations Speaker Series
March 18, 2026 12pm - 1pm Online
Love Shouldn’t Hurt: Preventing Teen Dating Violence Through Awareness, Connection, and Support
Speaker:
Ms. Veronica Freeman, La Early Start Association
About the guest speaker:
Veronica Freeman
Community Advocate | Youth Prevention Strategist | Faith & Family Engagement Leader
Veronica Freeman is a Louisiana-based community leader and prevention advocate committed to strengthening protective factors for children, adolescents, and families across the state. With more than two decades of experience in behavioral health, youth development, and faith-based community engagement, she works at the intersection of prevention, empowerment, and systems collaboration to address issues impacting vulnerable young people.
In partnership with the Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund, Ms. Freeman will present “Beyond the Red Flags: Preventing Teen Dating Violence Through Awareness, Empowerment, and Connection.” This Coffee & Conversations session focuses on teen dating violence as a critical public health and child well-being issue, addressing emotional, physical, sexual, and digital abuse and the unique vulnerabilities faced by adolescents.
Her work emphasizes early awareness, prevention-centered education, and the role of caring adults in shaping healthy environments for young people. During this session, participants will learn to recognize common warning signs of teen dating violence — including subtle forms of emotional and digital control — while exploring risk and protective factors that influence adolescent relationships. Ms. Freeman will guide attendees through practical strategies to model healthy communication, reinforce boundaries and respect, and promote youth voice as a powerful prevention tool.
Grounded in trauma-informed practice and community collaboration, her approach equips educators, caregivers, faith leaders, and service providers with tangible tools for early intervention. She believes that when trusted adults are informed and connected, teens are more likely to seek help before harm escalates.
Ms. Freeman is widely recognized for her ability to navigate sensitive topics with compassion, clarity, and actionable insight. Her commitment to prevention reflects a broader mission: creating safe, supportive spaces where young women and young men can build healthy relationships and thrive.
Sign up today! You must be present for over 50% of the presentation for us to award credits.
CLE HOURS SPONSOR: CEU HOURS SPONSOR:
Questions? Registrations, Connectivity and Credits can be supported by contacting Team Dynamics (985-624-3514).
LCTF Program Support Questions can be directed to Michele Rabalais (225-342-2245).
