We’re really fortunate that the faith community in Washington County has come behind us to support our efforts to reduce teen pregnancy! Our Faith-Based Initiatives (FBI) workgroup is very active and plans many activities throughout the year. Anyone can join this group, which typically meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7pm at First Christian Church in Hagerstown. Please contact FBI Chair Diane Eves for more information: deves@dhr.state.md.us.

Just Say Know: We are especially proud of our association with Rev. Linda and Richard Goddard of CLER Ministries in Texas (www.CLERMinistries.org ). They have developed the Just Say Know curriculum for various age groups to teach the biblical basis of human sexuality and relationships (download a brochure here). Two classes for high schoolers have been offered in Washington County, at Beaver Creek Church of the Brethren and First Christian Church. We are currently offering a class at Faith Christian Fellowship in Williamsport. We are also able to offer the class at churches throughout the county, so please let us know if you would like more information on bringing this class to your church.

Created to Be Me/ Eighters Camp: In summer 2009, we offered the first Created to be Me Camp to be held in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Created to be Me (a.k.a.Eighters) camp is a week-long camp for eighth graders going into ninth, teaching the basics of human sexuality and relationships from a biblical perspective as the teens face the important transition into high school. The camp will be offered again from August 1-7, 2010 at Camp Mary Mac near Sharpsburg. Please contact Camp Director Lara Shepherd for more information: laras@fred.net.

Just Say Know Training: Interested in finding out more about the CLER Ministries classes, bringing them to your church, or training to teach a class? On March 19 and 20, we will host a training for church leaders and potential teachers at First Christian Church in Hagerstown. Anyone is welcome; please contact the Coalition to register: TeensHaveChoices@gmail.com.

Download the schedule and registration forms here.

UPDATE: Registration for the training has been extended till Friday, March 5. There are still PLENTY of scholarships available for Washington County residents! You also have the option of emailing your form and paying at the door.