“Wyman is disappointed in the recent developments in Congress and the Administration related to the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program (TPPP). A program developed to address and prevent the high economic costs associated with teen pregnancy, using evidence-based approaches that empower youth to make responsible decisions about their lives, TPPP and the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Adolescent Health have contributed greatly to the lives of hundreds of thousands of teens across the country,” said Claire Wyneken, Wyman President and CEO.
“Wyman’s Teen Outreach Program® (TOP®) is one of those programs funded by TPPP. Thousands of teens’ lives have been made better by having the opportunity to participate in TOP, and programs like it, since TPPP’s inception. Programs such as TOP help youth build their strengths and potential, versus intervening only when problems occur. Not only do TOP teens demonstrate healthy relationships and behaviors, and risky behavior avoidance, they also do better in school and serve their communities through meaningful service projects. Cutting this program is short-sighted and will mean that many youth will not have the programs they need, like TOP, to help them succeed in learning, work and life.
“Going forward, Wyman is committed to working with members of Congress and the Administration on solutions to the challenges facing our nation’s teens. Early fatherhood and pregnancy, substance abuse and dropout are the tip of the iceberg, and we firmly believe that evidence-based programs like TOP can help solve these challenges. We hope that Congress and the Administration will identify other funding sources that will support programs that achieve results for teens and our communities.”
About Wyman
Wyman has been dedicated to serving youth from disadvantaged circumstances for more than a century. Wyman empowers teens, equips adults and strengthens systems. Wyman’s engaging, empowering and experiential programs and services help teens build skills, develop a sense of self, and connections to their world. As a result, teens achieve educational success, develop healthy behaviors and relationships, and exhibit life and leadership skills. From thousands of teens in St. Louis – to tens of thousands nationally – Wyman programs and services make a difference in the lives of today’s teens and tomorrow’s leaders. To learn more, and get involved, visit WymanCenter.org.
For more information, contact:
Katie Manga
Senior Vice President, Advancement, Communication and External Affairs
Katie.Manga@WymanCenter.org