Building a Village: A Community Approach to Meeting the Needs of Expectant and Parenting Students

The 2023 ELECT conference provided a unique opportunity to expose youth workers to research on trends and issues facing pregnant and parenting teens, best practices, resources, and strategies that can be incorporated at the program level to promote successful outcomes. The conference was attended by The Guidance Center’s Project RAPPORT program staff who serve young families in Clearfield, Jefferson, Elk, Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties.

Special Guest and event speaker, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Tyson Alualu and his wife, Desiré, shared their story of defying the odds — from becoming teen parents, entering college in 2005, through where they are now — planting seeds of hope that will encourage students for a lifetime. Their story reminds us all of the value of authentic connection, student-centered services, and a community approach to student support.
Project RAPPORT Program Director, Tina Thomas and RAPPORT/ELECT Case Worker, Stacy Barber are pictured with Tyson Alualu while attending the conference held in State College April 26-28.