Nicole's journey began as a young, single mother. She learned early on that obstacles in life can be overcome no matter how difficult and overwhelming they may seem - including having a baby at a young age.
The most important thing for you to know as a teen mother trying to make it is that life is NOT over. Yes, you will have tremendous obstacles to overcome, some of which I never had to face. No matter how you got into this situation, you must know that it’s not glamorous, and it’s not a fairy tale. It’s hard. You will have to put your own doubts to rest and then on top of that, everyone else’s. But it’s not impossible. If you have dreams, make them realities. If you have goals, reach them. If you never dreamed, here is your chance to!
“Be a Different Story”
By this I mean, don’t let anyone tell you that you’re not going to make it just because very few people in your situation do. Prove the statistics wrong and be your own, unique story.
There are people out there who want to see you succeed. Below you will find some resources that either assisted me or that I have discovered through meeting others. This list is always growing so please let me know if you are aware of organizations that should be included.
And lastly, keep in touch. Sign up for our newsletter and email alerts that will motivate you as you reach for the stars.
W.I.C.
http://www.fns.usda.gov/wic/
A Federal program that provides supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education and counseling at WIC clinics and screening and referrals to other health, welfare and social services to expecting women and children under the age of five
Head Start
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/hsb/
A national child care/preschool program that promotes school readiness by enhancing social and cognitive development in economically disadvantaged children and families (some centers provide infant services)
Planned Parenthood
www.plannedparenthood.org
Has all of the answers to questions you may too scared to ask regarding your sexual health, decisions about your pregnancy as well as local resources
National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association
www.nfprha.org/clinics
Can help you find clinics and organizations working in family planning and reproductive health all over the United States
The Healthy Teen Network
www.healthyteennetwork.org
More of a resource for those working with pregnant or parenting teens, HTN is a national organization focused on adolescent health and well being
Girl Mom
www.girlmom.com
Offers support, community and education to young mothers
College Mom Magazine
www.collegemommagazine.com
Tells the stories of college moms all over the country who are fighting for access to equal education, offers a forum where mothers can exchange advice, words of encouragement, etc., and provides information on various resources, including scholarships specifically for young mothers who are attending college.
StandUpGirl
www.standupgirl.com
A great site with forums, discussion boards, advice, and information for teens on teen pregnancy.
Teen Mom In College
www.TeenMomInCollege.com
A young woman who has overcome the obstacles of teen pregnancy shares information on college, advice, and highlights her books to help others.
Books:
You Look Too Young to Be a Mom
By Deborah Davis (Perigee Books, 2004)
The Amazing True Story of a Teenage Single Mom
By Katherine Arnoldi (Hyperion, 1998)
Surviving Teen Pregnancy: Your Choices, Dreams, and Decisions
By Shirley Arthur (Morning Glory Press, 1996)
