Switched-On Magazine

November is National Runaway Prevention Month. We recently held a Green Light event on November 12th to pass out green light bulbs to allow you to both show support for the goals of the National Runaway Switchboard and to promote awareness during the event. Throughout this month, we at the National Runaway Switchboard hope to raise awareness about what role people can play in runaway prevention and the issues facing the runaway youth. Runaway youth often end up homeless due to having nowhere to run to when they leave their family. It is important for us to address and resolve these issues as there are many problems that could result from homelessness that can potentially be avoided.

There are a variety of issues that can lead to youth running away from home. Family-related issues have been shown to be a major part of what issues runaways may have been facing prior to their departure including (but not limited to) substance abuse in family, family conflict, or abuse. Emotional instability and mental health problems could also lead to an increased chance of running away or can result from the homelessness that results from running away. These are both issues that can be addressed before it's too late as long as someone is willing to take the initiative to address them. However, addressing these issues is not the only way you can help.

There are also many other things that the people like you, who are a part of the community, can do to help prevent youth from running away or to help the currently homeless runaway youth, regardless of the person's role in regards to the youth in question. For instance, if you are a youth yourself, you can still help. You can volunteer at the National Runaway Switchboard or similar community organizations to help promote awareness or volunteer at nearby shelters or food banks to help provide for their needs. There are many organizations out there that  Parents are also very crucial in runaway prevention. With proper support and care, family members can provide a reason for the runaway youth to remain at home rather than run away. So, spend a little family time together every day and communicate with each other - a little time can make a big difference. Various organizations in the community such as businesses or community organizations can also help to provide for the basic needs of the runaway youth.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is all this can be done even when November is over. Continue to help promote awareness even when it's no longer National Runaway Prevention Month because there are cases happening year-round and you could help them!