Family/health issues

Our Future Foundations Family Center, under the direction of Laura Jaramillo, is providing a place to address community family and health issues. January has been a very busy month for the staff preparing for programs and events.

S.W.A.G (success with adolescent goals) began on the 13th with an orientation meeting with parents. This the second year for S.W.A.G., which is a program for teens ages 12-15, focusing on teen pregnancy prevention. The program began when the New Mexico Department of health targeted Cibola County as one of the counties having a high rate of teen pregnancies. Part of the program invites teen parents to share their experiences with the students. There are also opportunities for the students to help with community projects. Those completing the 16 week program will receive a $200 Wal-Mart gift card.

The second event sponsored by Future Foundations and Cibola General Hospital takes place tonight and is also in its second year. It is called Paint the Town Red:Ladies Night Out. It is a fundraiser to raise awareness about heart issues and obesity prevention. For $25 ladies over 18 will be offered food, entertainment,local vendors and live music. The first 100 guests will also receive a gift bag. Yesterday the "SWAG kids" helped decorate the Kights of Columbus Hall where the event will be held.

I am very happy to be involved with a group that cares about family/health issues. As a member of the family center staff I am also looking forward to working at the event tonight.