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This comprehensive evidence-based model provides youth (ages 12-24) with the knowledge and skills needed to protect themselves from becoming infected with HIV and to abstain from drug use. There are 18 interactive sessions (2 days a week for 9 weeks).  Students receive a stipend and other incentives for program completion.

Focus on Kids is a comprehensive peer-to-peer HIV/AIDS, substance abuse, hepatitis and sexually transmitted infection (STI) education and prevention program for youth and young adults. The program has been adapted from a Center for Disease Control (CDC) approved curriculum, Focus on Kids, to prevent HIV and other youth health prevention and education programs. The program addresses cultural issues affecting youth and young adults. It has been translated to be implemented in Spanish. The following are topics that are covered in each session:

• Participant Development:
• Decision Making Skills;
• Values Clarification;
• Communication Styles;
• Knowledge about Risky Behaviors

Parent Involvement

The LAYC recognizes the importance of parent involvement in their children’s education. As part of this initiative, the LAYC encourages all parents to be actively involved. The Focus on Kids program staff provides youth and their parents with referrals to LAYC and other community programs. The program also includes a parent-youth communication session where the staff talks to the parents and their children about the importance of communication.

Track

Parent & Participant Orientation and Voluntary Pre-Test

Session 1: Trust Building and Group Cohesion

Session 2: Risks and Values

Session 3: Educate Yourself: Obtaining Information

Session 4: Introduction to STIs

Session 5: STIs Continued

Session 6: Educate Yourself: Examining Consequences

Session 7: Skills Building Communication

Session 8: Sexual Health Information Risk, Alcohol Use and Relationships and Substance Abuse

Session 9: Attitudes and Skills for Sexual Health Risk

Session 10: Hepatitis Review and Plan Community Project

Session 11: Substance Abuse Prevention: Tobacco

Session 12: Substance Abuse Prevention: Alcohol

Session 13: Substance Abuse Prevention: Other Drugs

Session 14: Substance Abuse Prevention: Review

Session 15: Review and Community Service Project

Session 16: Community Project

Session 17: Guest Panel

Session 18: Voluntary Post-Test, Graduation

Eligibility

• Youth between the ages of 13-21 years old
• DC resident
• Youth with a strong desire to learn about HIV/AIDS and substance abuse prevention

Requirements

• Complete LAYC Application Form
• Parent’s or Legal Guardian’s permission
• Attend the group sessions twice a week for 9 weeks (18 session total) and other program activities

Benefits

• Incentives throughout the program
• Team-building
• Field trips/retreats/events
• Community service hours
• Stipend

Contact Information

Please call This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 202.518.3535 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at 202.319.3085 for details.