The Problem

• Approximately 2,054 teen girls become pregnant  each day.
• 1 in 4 girls in the U.S. has a STD.
• 80 percent of teen mothers end up on welfare.
• Over 9 million new teens are infected with a STD  each year.
• Adolescents having children cost society approx.  $29 billion annually in the U.S.

The Solution

• Our School-Based Program uses a proven ESTEEM  curriculum that offers 10 hours of education for  students in grades 6 – 12. We provide certification  training in ESTEEM for teachers and staff.
• The Community-Based Program offers group classes  for teens ages 12 – 18 and their parents/guardians.  We also offer other free training to community  organizations.
• Our Youth and Adult Clubs work together to plan  various events, give presentations, and assist as  facilitators and mentors.
• Our Special Events bring youth together in a fun and  uplifting environment, raise community awareness,  and provide opportunities to recruit new members.
• The Media Campaign educates the public about our  mission using television, radio, billboards, Internet,  newspaper, and special events. The Youth Coalition  members are continually involved in the planning and  creativity of the Media Campaign.

The Goal

Our goal is to educate and raise awareness among  teens and parents about the importance of abstinence.  By raising awareness, we hope to reduce the number  of sexually transmitted diseases and pregnancy rates  among teens.

We strive to promote healthy relationships that will  encourage youth to refrain from engaging in unhealthy  lifestyles (drugs, alcohol, etc.) and save sex until  marriage.

Get Involved

The East Texas Abstinence Program offers parents  and teens a variety of opportunities to get involved. We  educate parents and teens on topics including teen  pregnancy, the risks of teens engaging in sexual  activities, and teen risk behaviors. The program  accepts adolescents ranging from 12 to 18 years of  age.

Teens are encouraged to sign a membership  agreement and to make a Virginity Pledge as a  member of E.T.A.P. Teens in the program have the  chance to be mentors and participate in peer group  activities. Parents have the opportunity to be actively  involved in mentoring, counseling, and planning events.

To find out how your school or organization can get  involved, call 903.248.0493.

Parents and teachers, click here to find curriculum and evaluation information.