Prevention Services

Covenant House Washington has identified teen pregnancy, teen parenting, poor health, and economic issues of young parents as widespread crises. Through the Prevention Services Program, CHW offers three unique programs to help at-risk youth, ages 11- 17, develop good decision-making skills regarding sexual activity and drug use.

Peer Supported Pregnancy Prevention (PSP³) and Teen Life Choices (TLC) confront the issue of teen pregnancy and enable youth to make value, moral, and information-based decisions through structured after school and school based activities. The goal is simple: foster within youth a healthy sense of self that encourages them to abstain from sexual activity and other negative behaviors. Both programs are comprised of curriculum-based youth leadership development training and are facilitated through developmentally appropriate recreational and cultural enrichment activities, homework assistance and tutoring, and community service projects. There is also a Parents En-Power component to equip parents and guardians with information and strategies to encourage and reward positive behaviors in their maturing adolescents.

In an effort to reach more youth, Prevention Services regularly hosts a Health and Prevention Fair. Partnering with community-based organizations and health service providers, the bi-annual event is a public health and education campaign designed to raise awareness about prevention efforts, namely teen pregnancy, substance abuse, and violence prevention. The Fair reveals to youth the impact these issues have on their own communities. To keep youth constructively engaged during the summer, when school is out, Prevention Services annually conducts a theme-based summer enrichment program. The seven-week program focuses on academics, cultural activities, and an overnight youth retreat all geared toward helping youth enjoy the summer while sharpening their skills in preparation for a new school year.