Austin, Texas – Country Singer Martina McBride and the National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline (NTDAH) have partnered in a new program called My Time to Shine, which has been announced in conjunction with the release of her new album called Shine.
As the mother of three daughters, the four-time CMA Female Vocalist is passionate about the need to increase awareness for teens and parents about teen dating abuse, and about how to develop healthy relationships. Recent research has shown that one in three girls who have been in a serious relationship say they’ve been concerned about being physically hurt by their partner. “Young people today have more opportunities to make decisions about their lives, and it places a lot of pressure on them early,” said McBride. “If we can help them to form healthy relationships at an earlier age in life, they will make better choices for life partners, and as a mom, I want to be part of that.” My Time to Shine was developed for Martina’s Shine CD and tour around the concept that the teen years should be a young person’s time to shine—the time in their lives when they discover who they are, what their talents are and how to have healthy relationships.
When the contemporary country singer released Independence Day in 1994, she never dreamed that the song would resonate so powerfully with victims of family violence. It opened her eyes to the issue and changed her life. On concert tours, Martina began visiting high schools to talk to young women about self worth. Since then, she has been involved in fundraising for several programs that benefit women. My Time to Shine expands her work and is an opportunity for her to include her 14-year-old daughter, Delaney, in a cause they can both relate to. Starting with the morning TV shows this week, Martina will promote both the new CD and the awareness program. In addition Martina will speak out in public service announcements that will be shown at her concert venues when her tour begins in October. My Time to Shine merchandise will be sold at Martina’s concerts to raise funds to benefit the teen helpline.
For more on the Shine album, visit www.martina-mcbride.com. To learn more about loveisrespect, the Teen Dating Abuse Helpline, visit www.loveisrespect.org or call 1-866-331-9474/TTY 1-866-331-8453.