Articles

Project NATEEN Helps Teen Moms and Dads Grow Up
6/23/2008

It’s not easy being a teen and being pregnant, or being a teen parent. That’s why in 1985 Project NATEEN (Networking, Advocacy, Teaching, Empowerment, Education and Nurturing) was started as an Adolescent Family Life Program at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles.

Project NATEEN provides a full range of services to pregnant and parenting teens from different cultural backgrounds. NATEEN focuses on giving these teens the support they need to create a positive life for themselves. Teen parents, their families, and community partners work together to set goals and make this a reality.

When people think about teen pregnancy, they usually think about teen girls, but it’s important to support teen boys as well. Young fathers are invited to join Project D.A.D. (Determination Admiration Direction). Project D.A.D. is a program for young fathers between 14-24 that covers things teen dads think about like how a baby grows, how to be a responsible parent, what to do about violence at home, how to handle sex, and much more. The sessions are interactive and facilitated by trained, caring educators so young fathers can practice and learn from each other.

Project NATEEN works with various community organizations and schools. The program offers many other services for teens facing pregnancy. They have classes and offer personal coaching where teens can learn about everything from developing good relationships to how to get through school. Teens can also get information on job skills like how to write a resume or how to dress for a job interview.

For more information about Project NATEEN, call 323-669-5981