Through a novel partnership with religious organizations, our FAITH program combines the spiritual and moral guidance of religious leaders with the health and educational outreach expertise of Planned Parenthood to attend to the whole person--mind, body, and soul.
FAITH strengthens the positive role of the place of worship in the decision making of teens and adults as they struggle with questions related to being both a healthy, sexual being and a strong person of faith. We are confident that these concerted efforts result in reduced rates of teen pregnancy and disease, increased academic achievement, improved family communication, and enhanced community connection for program participants. In 2007 Planned Parenthood provided 118 people (80 youth and 38 adults) with comprehensive sex education through five faith partnerships in the Palm Beach and Treasure Coast areas.
The goals of FAITH are to:
- Train spiritual leaders to become sexuality educators in their places of worship
- Address the complex issues related to adolescent- and adult sexuality
- Develop programs that promote positive family communication and responsible decision making
- Provide comprehensive knowledge of reproductive health facts
- Familiarize faith leaders with community health and reproductive-care resources
- Address specific sexuality and health issues facing men and boys
Interfatith Council
Planned Parenthood's Interfaith Council is comprised of local faith and lay leaders, representing different denominations such as Unitarian, Episcopal, African Methodist Episcopal, Baptist and Jewish faiths. Members of the Interfaith Council receive advocacy training and meet with local legislators regarding the need to implement comprehensive sex education in our public schools. An Interfaith Council in West Palm Beach meets each month to break bread together at a prayer breakfast to discuss ways to work together on issues affecting our community. Another Interfaith Council is being launched in Miami-Dade.
Want to learn more?
Email us at: faith@ppsoflo.org or call us at 561.848.6402
