Our Program

Since 2007, Mission WV’s THINK Program has been walking alongside West Virginia youth, families, and communities with one goal: helping young people build healthier futures.

Over the years, nearly 200,000 students and adults across 30 counties have taken part in THINK’s lessons, conversations, and resources. Behind every number is a story — a teenager choosing confidence over pressure, a parent having an honest talk at the kitchen table, a classroom learning how respect builds stronger relationships.

Our work focuses on five core areas:

• Preventing Teen Pregnancy
  We equip middle and high school youth with the knowledge and skills to make informed choices, helping them avoid unintended pregnancies and stay focused on their goals.

• HIV and STI Prevention & Education
  Through age-appropriate, evidence-based lessons, we teach students how to protect themselves and others, reducing the spread of HIV and other STIs.

• Healthy Relationship Education
  We guide youth in recognizing the signs of unhealthy relationships, understanding different forms of abuse, and building safe, supportive connections with friends, family, and partners.

• Positive Youth Development
  THINK isn’t just about prevention—it’s about preparation. We help students strengthen life skills like communication, decision-making, and goal setting so they can move toward a brighter future.

• Parent and Community Education
  We know it takes a village. That’s why we provide parents, educators, and youth organizations with tools to start meaningful conversations about love, sex, and relationships.

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

Bring the THINK Program to Your School or Community

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.