A Step Ahead Chattanooga is one of eight subcontractors nationwide selected to participate in a project replicating evidence-based pregnancy prevention programs.
ASAC researched and adapted Healthy Teen Network’s Power Through Choices program to be applicable to teens in its 11-county service area.
The program educates youth ages 12 to 16 about the prevention of behaviors that result in HIV, sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.
Over a five-week period in June and July, ASAC implemented the first round of classes in coordination with its network of referral partner agencies.
ASAC is now looking forward to expanding and continuing the programming throughout its service area.
Power Through Choices consists of 10 90-minute sessions, held during a period of five weeks, with each class consisting of three to 15 students.
Each session addresses a specific risk factor, such as understanding sexually transmitted infections, contraception options and communicating about personal choices.
The initial offering of the program reached 125 teenagers. Partner organizations included Bridge Chattanooga, The Bethlehem Center, The Heard, Net Resource Foundation, The Pearl Group, Reach One Teach One and Youth of First Cumberland Presbyterian.
ASAC serves Bledsoe, Bradley, Franklin, Grundy, Hamilton Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Polk, Rhea and Sequatchie counties.
Information: AStepAheadChattanooga.org.