What is RESPECT?

RESPECT is Reducing Early Sex and Pregnancy by Educating Children and Teens -  a mentoring program for teens.  Youth may enter the program in 7th grade and continue  through graduation from high school.

Our Goal

We work intensively with teens who are at high risk of becoming teen parents. RESPECT offers guidance and helps develop self-esteem, teaching the life skills needed to be successful in school, work, dating and other relationships.

Activities

Teens meet twice a month to discuss topics such as:

• Decision-making skills and consequences
• Goal setting and future planning
• Abstinence and human sexuality
• Drug, alcohol and tobacco use prevention
• The negative influences of TV, radio, movies and advertising

Additionally, mentors work with the teens as positive role models and provide guidance as needed.

Rewards

RESPECT helps teens gain knowledge, responsibility, self-esteem, and good decision-making skills. These qualities are strengthened by the friends made and confidences shared within the group, as well as by the influence and involvement of mentors.