Teen Peer Education
Through peer education, PPNC's award-winning Teen Advocate Project (TAP) helps teens make healthy and responsible choices.
Since its inception in 1984, the TAP program has helped promote healthy attitudes and behavior in over 150,000 teenagers. Our TAP teens reach out to their peers through activities including:
- Talking to their friends in the hallways at school
- Facilitating informational workshops and engaging dramatic presentations
- Answering questions submitted via the Teen Info Line, an innovative, on-line support and referral service for adolescents who may not feel comfortable asking questions of adults
- Conducting one-on-one street outreach at parks, beaches, malls and other teen hang-outs
Planned Parenthood's peer educators give kids the honest, factual information they need about everything from the benefits of abstinence, to different methods of birth control, to the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, to self-esteem and relationships.
Why Become a TAP Teen?
Every day four teenagers become pregnant in Nassau County, and the number of young women and ethnic minorities in our area contracting HIV is on the rise.
But, being a TAP teen can make a difference. The teens form a bond with their peers and really get to know them. Instead of adults talking at kids, the TAP program allows teens to communicate honestly and openly with other teens to relay Planned Parenthood's message of responsible choices and prevention.
So don't just sit back and let someone lecture you - empower yourself! Show the world that you are ready to make responsible choices about your life and help your peers do the same.
What Does It Take To Be A TAP Teen?
PPNC is looking for teens who add something creative to the group dynamic, who will not be afraid to speak their minds and talk about sensitive issues. Theatre skills are a definite plus.
TAP teens need to have a good personality, be able to work well within a group and be dedicated to learning the required information about sexuality. An effective peer educator is one who is charismatic, welcoming, willing to approach other teens, respectful and able to handle responsibility.
And, of course, you have to follow the rules:
- Attend all meetings and workshops
- Always arrive on time
- Get in touch with us if you are late or can't attend a meeting or workshop
- Take the time to prepare for workshops
- Keep in contact about upcoming meetings or important dates
- Perform a set number of outreach hours
- Attend scheduled supervision sessions
- Receive a yearly physical and TB test
- Be respectful to fellow teen advocates, supervisors and staff
If you are interested in becoming a TAP teen, fill out the application and mail it to: PPNC, Attn: Education Department, 540 Fulton Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550. For more information, call (516) 750-2650 or email ppnc@ppnc.org.
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