Alongside their families, 27 teen parents proudly celebrated the completion of their high school education during a celebration hosted by our Adolescent Family Life Program (AFLP) at John’s Incredible Pizza. AFLP’s annual graduation celebration recognizes the challenges and accomplishments of teen parents completing their high school diploma.

One of this year’s participants also happened to be her high school’s valedictorian. “She’s a perfect example for all teen parents,” says AFLP Manager Christy Gorden. “While it’s more challenging, balancing a child and school is not impossible. That’s why we’re here; to encourage teen parents to continue on a successful path and become wonderful role models to their children.”

Graduates received Walmart gift cards, annual family zoo passes, and a special community donation of colorful tie-died baby blankets from Pilgrim Congregational Armenian Church’s youth group .

AFLP is a comprehensive case management project that provides teen parents with workshops and activities to enhance their parenting skills, support and guidance needed to pursue their education, and the help needed to obtain social and economic independence. AFLP serves approximately 150 teen parents every month.