Program works to lower teenage pregnancy rates

By Catherine E. Hanley, The Catholic Sun
April 19, 2007

PRESCOTT — Ten years ago this northern Arizona community recognized an alarming increase in teenage pregnancies and the subsequent ramifications.

They were determined to reverse the trend.

The Teenage Pregnancy Prevention Program, developed and operated by Catholic Charities Community Services, reported that an estimated 34,000 youth throughout Yavapai County have participated in their activities. Some 20,000 have attended abstinence and health education classes.

“The community concern was so strong that everyone — including families, schools, students, churches and other related social service organizations — partnered together to make the program work,” said Diane DeLong, program director since 1997.

During the first semester of the 2007 school year, pregnancy prevention educators presented 2,830 abstinence and health education classes in county schools. 

The program’s mission is to reduce adolescent pregnancy, enhance youth leadership and promote healthy parenting by collaborating with the Yavapai County community.

“Funding has also made it possible to again expand the program,” DeLong said.

She said the pregnancy prevention program will soon start in Flagstaff and they are searching for abstinence educators and program coordinators in Coconino County.

The month of May is teen pregnancy prevention month and May 2 is the national day to prevent teen pregnancy.

For more information, call (928) 778-2531, ext. 3414.