ANNVILLE, Pa. – Lebanon Valley College Athletics is doing its part to make each LVC student's college experience as rewarding, comfortable, and most importantly, safe as possible. The College recently implemented the Step UP! program in hopes of encouraging student-athletes to recognize when their peers are suffering any sort of mental, emotional, or physical abuse and help put a stop to it.

LVC head field hockey coach Carol Miller hosted trainings this fall for all freshmen and sophomore student-athletes. The sessions highlighted ways for the underclassmen to make a difference in uncomfortable situations they come across in their everyday lives.  These range anywhere from cheating, drugs and alcohol abuse, and anger, to depression, unhealthy relationships, and discrimination.  Regardless of the situation, students were encouraged to recognize the problem, step up, and help each other out. 



The Step UP! program revolves around one essential question: Have you ever been concerned about a situation and wanted to help…but didn't? If you can answer yes to this question, you're not alone. This situation is more common than you might think and is known as the bystander effect. Step UP! is the Bystander Intervention Program with five decision-making steps and strategies for effective helping in difficult situations.

Step One
Notice the Event 
- Be aware and keep an eye out for others.

Step Two
Interpret It as a Problem
- Investigate by asking questions and getting others involved.

Step Three
Assume Personal Responsibility
- What would you want someone else to do for you?

Step Four
Know How to Help
- Know yourself. Understand what you are capable of doing without putting yourself in harm's way.

Step Five
Step Up!
- Be the first to take action to resolve the situation.