Wyman’s Teen Outreach Program (TOP) is a nationally recognized, evidence-based program providing teens with the tools and opportunities to build life and leadership skills, strengthen relationships, and avoid risky behaviors.
Using interactive lessons facilitated by trained, caring adults, TOP youth become prepared to navigate life’s challenges through their teenage years – and beyond – and to make a difference in their communities.
TOP is a 9-month program for 6th through 12th graders implemented in a variety of settings, including:
- In schools
- After school
- Through community-based organizations
- In systems or institutional settings
TOP is customizable to meet the needs of all teens.
It’s unique approach to youth development includes:
- An engaging curriculum
- Weekly peer group meetings
- Opportunities for skill building, including goal setting, communication, teamwork, and problem solving
- Positive adult guidance and support
- Opportunities for teens to sharpen their newfound skills during community service learning
Annually, Wyman directly serves over 1,200 middle school teens in partnership with the School District of University City and the Ferguson-Florissant School District, both in Missouri. Through our National Network partners, TOP reaches more than 25,000 teens across the country.
More about TOP
Teen Outreach Program (TOP) teens…
- Build important skills, including communication, decision-making, and how to set goals.
- Learn about themselves by exploring their values and taking care of their personal health and wellness.
- Engage with their communities through community service projects and discover how they can make a difference in the lives of others.
Rigorous research shows the Teen Outreach Program (TOP) works.
TOP teens show academic improvements.
Lowered risk of failing grades and failed courses.
TOP teens show decreased risky behaviors.
Lowered risk of risky sexual behavior and pregnancy.
Lowered risk of suspensions and skipping school.
“An important part of TOP is meeting students where they’re at. Sometimes that means students aren’t in a place where taking full responsibility for themselves or emotion management come easily. But that doesn’t mean it won’t happen. Students are able to build these important skills through TOP, even when it seems challenging.” – TOP Facilitator
Bring the Teen Outreach Program (TOP) to your community
TOP is recognized as a Promising Program by Blueprints for Healthy Youth Development and received CASEL’s highest designation for quality programming, among several other evidence-based recognitions.
Visit our National Network page or contact Nate Hilliard (636.549.1251) for information on how you can become a partner!