Tips 4 Teens, Inc. Introduces a Free Youth Development Program for Clayton County Students Ages 11-17

Riverdale, GA, August 13, 2010 --(PR.com)-- Georgia’s juvenile delinquency, school dropout and teen pregnancy rates are on the rise, and will account for an $18 billion deficit in Georgia’s economics. Fifty-three percent of Georgia’s juvenile population have been involved with the juvenile court system, school dropout rates are above the National average and teen pregnancy has increased by ten percent (University of Georgia, 2009).

Tips 4 Teens introduces the PHAT (Promoting a Healthy lifestyle through Abstaining from Toxic decisions) Program, which has taken the initiative to reduce the above noted statistics. “Tips 4 Teens has serviced Clayton County since 2008 and since its inception has noted a difference in over 35% of the population that we’ve served,” says Dr. Akins, Tips 4 Teens, Executive Director. PHAT is a researched-evidenced based program for youth ages 11-17. The program integrates Choice and Cognitive Behavioral concepts, which have been found to change maladaptive self-defeating behaviors, negative thought processes, improve self-esteem and help youth build closer relationships with care takers and others. The goal of the program is to improve flawed cognition, improve school connectedness, and problem solving skills.

Our children are our future, in order to save them from destructive paths, Tips 4 Teens and citizens from surrounding communities have joined forces to win our communities and children back. Dr. Akins states, “It is time that we step up and win our children back from negative influences, such as media, that have taken precedence in children’s lives. In order to make a difference in children’s lives, we must first understand them, and employ strategies that will assist them in dealing with issues that may be affecting their behaviors and their willingness to learn, do better and become better.” Bianca, a PHAT participant states: “I’ve learned about being a chief. A chief in my own words is someone who is a leader and not a follower. I attended Tips 4 Teens PHAT program because it helped me work out my problems. I would recommend the PHAT program to other kids because it helps you work out your problems.” More information about Tips 4 Teens, Inc. can be obtained on its website www.tips4teens.org.

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