On October 7, 2011 Gloves-On, a Birmingham, MI business-with-a-cause launched its clothing line and campaign against bullying at The Community House. Birmingham business owners Michael Collins and David Zawicki (Oliver’s Trendz and Sumh-thing), were moved to create Gloves-On following the increase in press and attention on bullying related suicides of young people across the nation. Reminded of their own bullying experiences, the creators have implemented a two faceted campaign against bullying.

The first is being a “Cornerman.” A cornerman can be a child or adult that supports the bullied victim by providing comfort, identifying strengths, standing up for the underdog and encouraging a peaceful resolution.  Gloves-On has partnered with WDZH-FM (98.7 AMP radio) for a contest where anyone who pledges to become a Cornerman by Nov. 1 is automatically entered to win tickets to a Nov. 26 Jay-Z and Kanye West concert at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Those interested can pledge at http://ampnation.987ampradio.radio.com/CustomContest.aspx?AID=162831

The second component is to find, wear and share your strengths. Bullied youngsters are often silenced and made to feel that their unique skills and qualities are to be ashamed of in some way. Gloves-On encourages people to be proud of their strengths and share them openly.

Birmingham Maple Clinic has partnered with Gloves-On by providing mental health support and education to local children, families, and schools. Birmingham Maple Clinic therapists will accept referrals for children and families dealing with the psycho-social-emotional consequences of bullying such as anxiety, depression, trauma, suicide ideation, cutting, eating disorders, school refusal as well as helping parents to reduce aggressive, bullying behaviors that may exist. Birmingham Maple Clinic therapists will also participate in educational assemblies with students, teachers, and parents to provide information about suicide prevention, raise awareness about mental health symptoms that can result from bullying and teach techniques to prevent and reduce negative, harmful behaviors.

Birmingham Maple Clinic is committed to the message behind Gloves-On and is thankful to be a part of this campaign from its inception. To make an appointment or learn more about services provided by Birmingham Maple Clinic please visit www.birminghammaple.com. For more information about Gloves-On go to www.gloves-on.com.

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