Serving Over 1,500 Young Families Every Year
Since 1979, Insights has been nurturing young mothers, fathers, babies, and families with respect-based services. Insights' empowers young parents and involves them in taking positive control over their lives.
The young parents who seek our support genuinely desire to be competent and confident parents. And, they face many challenges.
Most teen parents come to Insights because they lack the information, skills and support system necessary for healthy pregnancies, competent parenting, strong family relationships and safe homes. Our programs address physical and mental health, housing, domestic violence, child abuse, parenting and social isolation.
In-house statistics show that 94% of our clients live below the poverty level, 77% were sexually molested prior to becoming pregnant, 55% live in a home where substance abuse is an issue for someone other than herself, and 50% were severely physically abused as children.
Although adolescent parents come from diverse backgrounds, they share the strong desire to be good parents and provide safe homes and healthy lives for their children. Our clients' motivation and hard work is our inspiration.
“If I could get the world's attention I would like everyone to know that me having a baby is not a regret in my life, it's nothing but a joy.” —Jessica, age 17
We Count Our Successes One Young Family at a Time
• When a young dad has the courage to attend a parenting support group because he really cares about being a good father —our entire community benefits.
• When a Spanish-speaking single teen mom is able to use public transportation and learn English, we applaud her determination.
• When we are able to place a young family in safe housing, we all breathe easier.
• And, each week, when we deliver over 30 boxes of emergency supplies —food, diapers and personal items —we connect with each young family in a meaningful way.
“Insights has taught me to be open and speak up.” —Desiree, age 19
Insights is Unique
Insights is one of the few nonprofit agencies in the United States that is devoted exclusively to the needs of young parents.
We are recognized as a viable agency by government agencies, foundations, corporations, community organizations and schools that support us with partnerships, collaborations and funding. From a two-person agency operating out of donated space, we now lease a 5,350 square foot building in central Portland, employ more than 40 staff members, have 33 volunteers and a dedicated Board of Directors.
Insights consistently has a waiting list of teen moms waiting to enter our programs. Over half of the referrals to our program come directly from young parents who hear about Insights and call us to find out about participating. Other young parents are referred to Insights from local youth agencies, government agencies, and Community Health Nurses.
“Insights has taught my child how to interact with other kids and how to share.” —Tonya, age 20
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