It's often overlooked -- teaching young people how to build successful, healthy relationships. With so much emphasis on pregnancy prevention, teens sometimes don't get the education they need to learn the basics of dating.
But the Center for Self Sufficiency is there to help.
Located in Shorewood, the center teaches an evidence-based curriculum, focused on healthy relationships and positive decision making.
Angela Turner, President and CEO of the center, says teens are oftentimes moving too fast in relationships.
"A lot of the relationships these days are not based on friendships. They're based on sexual relationships. Individuals slide into sexual relationships without thinking about the ingredients of a successful friendship," she said.
But it's not only about sex. The center also teaches people how to overcome other challenges, including conflict resolution, effective communication and building solid friendships.
"The key ingredients to a friendship are common interests, self respect and respecting others. We teach people how to have effective conversations and communicate," Turner said.
The center brings the program wherever its needed. From high schools to community organizations, certified educators connect with people of all ages. Turner says the center will host educational events at any location where 10 or more people are gathered.
To connect with the Center for Self Sufficiency, click here.
Check out the audio version of this story by using the player below.
