Making a Difference

Making a Difference (M.A.D.): Is an abstinence approach to prevent teen pregnancy and STD’s including HIV. This evidenced-based program specifically advocates abstinence and postponing sexual involvement as these are the only two ways to completely eliminate the risk of unplanned pregnancy and STD’s. The curriculum does not mention any other contraceptive methods or safe sex practices because abstinence is the safest choice. This curriculum is offered to the 7th grade.

The goals for the Health Educators are:

  • To educate you about responsibilities regarding pregnancy and STD’s.
  • For the youth to have more positive attitudes about abstinence
  • Increase youth’s confidence
  • Teach youth how to “say no” and create/maintain healthy relationships
  • Decrease the risk of disease
  • Give youth an opportunity to speak with a trusted adult

Helpful Links

Student comments:

  • “How to say no and deal with the peer pressure”
  • “How to say no to sex and the consequences for it”
  • “How to stay away and how you can tell them no”
  • “I learned and understood abstinence”
  • “I learned that abstinence is good for you to achieve your goals in life.”
  • “How to tell people I don’t want to do it and how to tell them”

Teacher comments:

  • “This program is awesome. It is a great start to empower our students to be able to choose abstinence.”
  • “Provides students the information they may not have previously known and that it stresses the importance of abstinence. Presenters are very knowledgeable and professional.”
  • “All parts of the program were well planned out. The strategies were appropriate for the students. So thankful I got this program!”
  • “Presenter was well prepared, knew the subject matter, and she kept their interest. Students seemed comfortable enough to make statements and ask questions in class. Good speaker! Great job!”
  • “This program provided valuable information to students who might not otherwise get educated in the proper manner”