Teen Services The mission of the Teen Services Program is to help prevent teen pregnancies by giving young people accurate information and fostering an understanding of rights, respect and responsibility in sexual relationships. Presentations are made to teenagers in school health classes and youth programs in the Maui community. Presentation topics can be designed to meet the needs and interest of specific groups such as parents of teens. Teen Group, a weekly support opportunity for pregnant teens and teen parents is provided every Wednesday afternoon at Maui Family Support Services. Pregnant and parenting teens come to "talk story", give and receive support, and gain knowledge and engage in skill building activities. During a recent Teen Group some participating teens explored the programs benefits and talked about their experiences. Reflecting on the experience of many young people who find themselves with an unplanned pregnancy, Jennifer said, "I was scared and uncertain. I didn't know what I wanted or where to go. I felt I wasn't prepared to be a mother. My whole life was changing and had no idea what it was going to be like." "I couldn't believe I had a baby," added Jastin, "I was angry and sad with myself. It was frustrating in the beginning but it's getting easier. When I thought about my future, I thought I wasn't going to be a good parent."  Both teens needed assurance that they would get through it and receive guidance on what they needed to know and do. Nakita commented, "I got a lot of support from my family and friends." The others agreed they needed that too. The Teen Services Program has been able to assist with obtaining medical coverage for participants' children and connecting parents to additional community resources. Beyond these, the program benefits they have received are much more personal and life changing for most. Jennifer said, "I appreciate having the opportunity to have this time with others who are in similar situations. We can relate to each other. It's also a safe place and what we talk about is confidential. This is my program where I get to develop who I am as a woman and a mother. I've gained confidence in myself which is making me a better parent than I thought I'd ever be." Jastin said, "I wasn't happy at first about being a parent. I didn't want to be around other people because I felt shame. I liked (Teen) Group from the beginning. I am more confident as a parent because of your help." Considering the future, the group participants agreed that it is going to be much brighter than they had imagined. "I am still ambitious about going to a prestigious college. My job as a mother is the most important and I know I'll be a great mom. I'm more determined and on top of things now. I look forward to it (Teen Group) every week." Said Jennifer, and Jastin added, "My future is happy now." The Teen Services Program is funded by Maui County, Hawaii Children’s Trust Fund, and contributions from donors. For information on these programs, please contact Harold Ames, Program Coordinator at (808) 242-0900 or via e-mail: harold@mfss.org.