WV Teen Health: The THINK Program by Mission WV 

The THINK Program is Mission WV’s flagship initiative for advancing teen health across West Virginia. Since 2007, THINK has empowered more than 10,000 youth and adults in over 30 counties, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make healthy, informed decisions. Our evidence-based curriculum addresses the unique challenges faced by West Virginia teens, from rural communities to urban centers. 

Why WV Teen Health Matters 

West Virginia ranks near the bottom nationally in overall child well-being, with high rates of teen pregnancy, substance use, and mental health challenges. The THINK Program is designed to address these issues head-on, providing practical education and support that makes a measurable difference. 

Core Program Areas 

Teen Pregnancy Prevention: 

THINK equips middle and high school students with the information and confidence to avoid unintended pregnancies and stay focused on their goals. Since the program’s inception, the teen birth rate in West Virginia has dropped by over 56%. 

HIV and STI Prevention: 

Age-appropriate, evidence-based lessons teach students how to protect themselves and others, reducing the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. 

Healthy Relationship Education: 

THINK helps youth recognize the signs of unhealthy relationships, understand different forms of abuse, and build safe, supportive connections with friends, family, and partners. 

Positive Youth Development: 

Beyond prevention, THINK prepares students for life by strengthening skills like communication, decision-making, and goal setting. 

Parent and Community Education: 

We provide parents, educators, and youth organizations with tools to start meaningful conversations about love, sex, and relationships. 

Program Impact 

• 10,000+ teens and adults served since 2007 

• 30+ counties reached, including rural and urban areas 

• 200,000+ lessons delivered in schools, community centers, and online 

Resources and Support 

• Downloadable lesson plans and parent guides 

• Links to local health clinics and support services 

• Ongoing training for educators and youth leaders 

What People are Saying

Student Voices

“Before this class, I didn’t feel like I had a choice in some of my relationships. Now I know how to set boundaries and stick to them. It feels good to be respected.” — 11th grade student

“I used to think STI education was just scary facts. But the lessons helped me understand what’s real, what’s not, and how to make smart decisions for my future.” — 10th grade student

Parent Voices

“I’ve always wanted to talk to my daughter about dating and relationships, but I didn’t know where to start. Mission WV gave me the words and the confidence to open that door.” — Parent of a high school student

“After Mission WV came to my son’s school, he actually opened up to me about things he’d never talked about before. That’s a first! It’s something I’ll always be grateful for.” — Parent of a middle school student

Teacher Voices

“I’ve seen students light up when they realize they have the power to choose healthier paths for themselves. Mission WV uses lessons that stick with the students long after the class is over.” — High school teacher

“These aren’t just health lessons—they’re life lessons. Students leave with tools they can use in friendships, family life, and their future relationships.” — Middle school teacher

Get Involved

Bring the THINK Program to Your School or Community

• Volunteer as a guest speaker or mentor 

• Support THINK with a donation 

• Share your story to inspire others 

Ready to partner with us? We’d love to talk about how Mission WV can serve your students, staff, and families.

Contact: Salina Lyter, Program Manager
Email: slyter@missionwv.org

This website is supported by a Grant Numbers 90SR0179 from the Family and Youth Services Bureau within the Administration for Children and Families, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Neither the Administration for Children and Families nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse this website (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided). The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Administration for Children and Families and the Family and Youth Services Bureau.