Success Stories
Although the mission of Teen Parent Connection is quite specific, the impact of our mission delivers success across a broad range of community and societal issues. Our programs are based on research and reality, made successful through the hard work of our participants, volunteers, donors, and staff. Statistically, children born to teens are at an exceptionally high risk for abuse and neglect. Teen Parent Connection provides support, education, and resources to promote a child’s healthy growth and development.
Did You Know?
Research suggests that inappropriate expectations of children’s behavior are associated with problems with parenting, including risk for child maltreatment.
Success:
Educational programs at Teen Parent Connection promote an understanding of development. This understanding allows for more appropriate parent expectations, resulting in lower risk for child maltreatment.
Did You Know?
Our programs are typically operating at full capacity, and several often have waiting lists.
Success:
Every donation helps. YOU can be a part of this SUCCESS with your gifts of money, time, and talent. Our very fulfilling volunteer opportunities provide a way for the community to share in our success, and more importantly, that of our participant teens and children.
Meet Alyssa:
Alyssa was an active high school student — involved in cross country, lacrosse, and theater — when she became pregnant at age 16. Alyssa’s relationships with her friends and family began to change, and she realized she needed additional supports. At 2 months pregnant, she began attending Teen Parent Connection’s Naperville group held at Knox Presbyterian Church.
Alyssa found out she was having twins and was put on bed rest at 5 months pregnant. Determined to graduate early, Alyssa had her schoolwork sent to her hospital room where she completed it from her hospital bed. Her twin boys, Jackson and Robbie, were born in May of 2010.
Currently, Alyssa is a full time mom, part-time student at College of DuPage, and works part-time. She continues to attend Naperville group and receives home visits from a Family Support Specialist. Alyssa also became a peer educator for Teen Parent Connection, sharing the realities and responsibilities of becoming a teenage parent with high school and middle school students. Jackson and Robbie are healthy and happy toddlers, attending pre-school two days a week.
“I just want to say thank you to everyone who enables Teen Parent Connection to provide the services they do and help me get the support I need,” Alyssa stated. “The help that I get from Teen Parent Connection has made a difference in my life because of all the relationships I have made though group, all the resources I get from my home visitor and I all the necessities I can get from the Parents’ Pantry.”
Talking Success
… Participants Have Learned From Teen Parent Connection:
“I learned to be safe, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.” (Female, age 15, commenting on what she learned from our Prevention Program.)
“Group taught me how important patience is when it comes to a child.”
“I learned how to communicate with my baby, and to understand why he cries.”
“I feel less shy and embarrassed and I realize that life is not over.”
“I am more determined than ever to reply on myself and be independent.”
“I am a happier person, and have seen myself be a good parent.”