The Children's Aid Society (CAS) - Carrera Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Program helps young people (ages 10 to 18) avoid pregnancy and risky sexual behavior. Guided by a philosophy that sees youth as "at promise" instead of "at risk," the program uses a holistic approach that empowers youth and helps them develop a desire for a productive, risk-free future. This approach centers on the belief that success in school, meaningful employment, access to quality medical and health services, and interactions with high-caliber adult role models have a potent contraceptive effect on teens. The CAS-Carrera program follows youth beginning in fifth grade until high school graduation and beyond, providing opportunities for them to discover interests and develop talents, as well as emphasizing education and employment.

Evaluation Status: Proven Effective

An evaluation by Philliber Research Associates found the CAS-Carrera program yielded a 50 percent reduction in birth rates in communities served among the girls it served along with a multitude of other positive outcomes for both boys and girls, including increased likelihood of high-school graduation and college admission, increased employment experience, greater fiscal responsibility, and increased adoption of healthy living practices. The program is the only fully evaluated teenage pregnancy prevention program in the country with statistically proven effectiveness. More information about the evaluation can be found at the organization’s website.

EMCF Investment

Since 2004, the Foundation has invested $4.5 million in the CAS-Carrera Program to help develop and implement its business plan. During this period the organization has embarked on significant national expansion, establishing several new program sites in cities outside its home of New York City.

For more information, visit CAS-Carrera’s website at www.stopteenpregnancy.com.