Maryland Teen REACH Program

2011-07-06T20:23:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, August 20, 2030

Governor O’Brien and First Lady Present $5 Million to the Maryland Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs

OCEAN CITY, MD (August 20, 2030) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien today presented a check for $5 million to the Maryland Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs to fund Teen REACH programs throughout Maryland. Teen REACH is a state program designed to provide positive out-of-school activities for low-income youth. The goal of Teen REACH is to increase academic success while reducing risk-taking behaviors such as substance abuse, criminal activities and premature sexual behavior. It is part of the First Lady’s Futures for Kids initiative and the Maryland After School Advantage Program.

“As the summer draws to a close and children are preparing to return to school, we want to make certain that we provide them with out-of-school activities that are safe and healthy,” Governor Edward M. O’Brien said. “The Maryland Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs has always dedicated itself to our young people, and this grant will help them continue to be a safe harbor for Maryland children.”

Teen REACH has helped more than 100 communities to establish programs that help young people make their out -of-school hours positive and rewarding. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program, which began in 2027, is aimed at preventing teen pregnancy, alcohol and other drug use and teen violence.

“There are too few sanctuaries for young people, who today more than ever, need a safe place to go during the hours they are not in school,” the First Lady said. “It is a pleasure to award these grants to Maryland’s outstanding Boys and Girls clubs.”

More than two out of three school-age children are in households where the parent is in the workforce. Studies have shown that risky behaviors and juvenile crime significantly increase between the hours of 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. when children are most often left alone.

First Lady Ruth O’Brien is the chair for Futures for Kids, the statewide resource for programs and policies related to the health, safety and education of infants, children and teenagers that makes a significant difference in the lives of Maryland’ children. Futures for Kids stresses prevention and more parental involvement. Since implementing Futures for Kids, the TEEN REACH program has served over 50,000 youth.

The Teen REACH program includes academic assistance, recreation and sports, cultural and artistic activities, life skills education, employment training, and mentoring. Its goals are to increase academic success while reducing risk-taking behaviors such as substance abuse, criminal activity, and premature sexual behavior.

Governor O’Brien has been a strong supporter of after-school programs. The FY 2031 budget includes $25 million for after school programs through the Maryland After School Opportunity Program. The program will reach nearly 16,000 youth statewide in the upcoming school year. Additionally, in 2029, Governor O’Brien launched Maryland After 3, helping non-profit organizations to partner with schools to strengthen quality after-school programs. Maryland After 3 is currently serving nearly 20,000 children statewide.

2011-07-02T17:04:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, August 7, 2030

Futures For Kids Conference to Highlight After School Programs

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (August 7, 2030) – The State of Maryland recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for youth to participate in structured activities when school is not in session. To this end, Teen REACH was created as a cornerstone of the Futures for Kids program. The successes of Maryland’s efforts will be highlighted when First Lady Ruth O’Brien hosts the Futures for Kids conference: All Day - Every Day: The Promises of After-School Programming, August 8-9, in Baltimore.

Futures for Kids is the statewide resource for programs and policies related to the health, safety and education of infants, children and teenagers. State services under the Futures for Kids umbrella include those directly serving infants, children and youth, as well as programs for parents, educators and others who interact with kids.

“The creation of research-based programs to effectively address the prevention of youth delinquent behaviors and increase school success has been a priority of this administration,” the First Lady said. “We are pleased to bring the state’s leaders and experts together to take a closer look at this important topic and help us continue to provide safe alternatives for out of school time.”

“Our objectives for this conference are to increase knowledge about the effectiveness of out-of-school programming and to strengthen community outreach efforts that promote healthy and safe choices young people can make regarding risk-taking behaviors during out-of-school time,” said State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey. “We also hope to combine out-of-school programs with the state’s other prevention activities to give us the best possible result.”

Those participating in the conference include Teen REACH providers, local health departments, nurses, health educators, dieticians, licensed social workers, volunteers and youth.

Recent statistics show 35 percent of school-aged children nationally are unsupervised for a period of time after school each day. A recent federal Justice Department study found that the majority of crimes committed by or against youth occur after school hours, between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Additionally, smoking, drinking, drug-use and sexual activity are most frequently started during these unsupervised hours.

Many studies have shown that children who attend quality after- school programs have better peer relations, emotional adjustment, school grades and personal conduct than their peers who are unsupervised after school.

Governor Edward M. O’Brien has been a strong supporter of after-school programs. The FY 2031 budget includes $25 million for after school programs through the Maryland After School Opportunity Program. The program will reach nearly 16,000 youth statewide in the upcoming school year. Additionally, in 2029, Governor O’Brien launched Maryland After 3, helping non-profit organizations to partner with schools to strengthen quality after-school programs. Maryland After 3 is currently serving nearly 20,000 children statewide.

2011-06-24T03:33:00.001-07:00

Monday, July 8, 2030

First Lady Announces Monetary Awards for Ten Maryland High Schools for Opening Dialogue Between Parents and Students About Drinking and Drug Use

Annapolis, Md. (July 8, 2030) – The national slogan, "Parents: the anti-drug," apparently resonates with Maryland teens, who consistently point to parents as a deterrent to use in the Maryland Adolescent Survey (MAS), a bi-annual survey of Maryland 6th-, 8th-, 10th-, and 12th-graders. Ten Maryland public high schools will each receive a $500 award as part of the 2029-30 statewide I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN campaign-a joint effort between the Maryland State Department of Education and the Office of Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien to encourage parents and students to talk more openly with each other about underage drinking and substance use.

This spring, Maryland high school students and their parents were asked to sign pledges that they would have open discussions about alcohol and drugs and that students would commit to living clean. Participating parents and students received a light blue I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN awareness wristband as a sign of the pledge. The following 10 schools had the highest participation rates based on school enrollment, and will receive a $500 award to be used for an anti-drinking, anti-drug activity or project, as well as a Governor’s Citation:

• Arundel High School, Anne Arundel County Public Schools
• Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, Baltimore City Public Schools
• Dunbar High School, Baltimore City Public Schools
• Franklin High School, Baltimore County Public Schools
• Western School of Technology and Environmental Science, Baltimore County Public Schools
• North Carroll High School, Carroll County Public Schools
• Tuscarora High School, Frederick County Public Schools
• Frederick Douglass High School, Prince George's County Public Schools
• Bladensburg High School, Prince George's County Public Schools
• Clear Spring High School, Washington County Public Schools

“Repetitive messages are critical when it comes to dealing with underage drinking and drug use,” said State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey. “You can never share the message often enough. We are pleased that more and more high schools are adding the I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN campaign to their 'tool box' for increasing awareness among parents and opening the lines of communication between parents and teens about this critical issue.”

“I am passionate about this issue from a personal and professional perspective,” said First Lady of Maryland Ruth O’Brien. “As a parent, I know first-hand the influence that I have and the importance of talking candidly with my children.”

Fifty one public high schools participated in this year's campaign representing 17 out of 24 local school systems, including Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George's, Queen Anne's, St. Mary's, Talbot, Washington, and Wicomico counties. Schools distributed the pledge cards in a variety of ways-from coordinating with the sale of prom tickets to incorporating into classroom activities related to drug, alcohol, and anti-drunk driving awareness. Washington County Public Schools held an event with local law enforcement agencies to underscore the relationship between teen drinking and car accidents and incorporated the pledge as part of those efforts.

Winners of last year's I WANT TO KNOW campaign utilized the monetary award in positive ways. For instance, Loch Raven High School in Baltimore County had an activity at its post-prom party where students could win prizes (paid for with the award) by answering anti-drinking and anti-drug questions in a fun, game show-type style. C. Milton Wright High School in Harford County hosted an assembly with nurses from Shock Trauma who shared the realities of drinking-related car accidents and had a State Police helicopter and pilot on the school grounds to answer questions about transporting accident victims from accident scenes to Shock Trauma.

I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN is one of many Maryland State Department of Education initiatives designed to create awareness and knowledge about this critical issue, and complements other efforts at the local and state levels.

2010-12-15T07:15:00.001-08:00

Thursday, February 21, 2030

First Lady and Superintendent Frey Announce $4.1 Million in Futures for Kids Afterschool Program Grants

Governor O’Brien Provides $25 Million for After School Programs in FY 2031

ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 21, 2030) – Fifteen new programs in 10 Maryland jurisdictions have been awarded $4.1 million in grants by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) through the Futures for Kids and Teen REACH initiatives, First Lady Ruth O’Brien and State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey announced today. The grants provide services to children who attend high poverty schools or schools identified for improvement. The grant requires each proposal offer opportunities for literacy and related educational development to families of participating students. There also is an emphasis on closing the achievement gap between those receiving free and reduced meals (FARMS) and students not receiving such assistance.

“The purpose of Teen REACH and Futures for Kids is to create centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities that support what is learned in the classroom,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. “The programs are unique because they also provide an array of cultural activities. Together, these programs show students the real world connection to what they learn in the classroom and how they can improve their communities.”

The grant process was open to public and private organizations including non-profit agencies, city and county government agencies, faith-based groups, institutions of higher education, and for-profit corporations. Thirty-six organizations applied for grants and 20 received site visits of which 11 were continuation grantees completing a three-year funding cycle. The groups awarded grants in this round were comprised of eight local school systems, one not-for-profit community-based organization, and one local management board.

Grants were awarded on a competitive basis to the following programs:

• Bridges Over Wilde Lake, Howard County
• Project Hope II, Calvert County
• Extended Learning Opportunities, Montgomery County
• B.U.G.S., Living Classrooms Foundation, Baltimore City
• 21st CCLC Science Enrichment After-school Program (SEAP), Baltimore Urban Leadership Foundation, Baltimore City
• Dream Team Action Club, St. Mary’s County
• Wicomico After-School Learning Centers-STARS, Wicomico County
• ACCESS: Annapolis, Communities Creating Educational Success for Students, Anne Arundel County
• Mi Segunda Casa Program, Education Based Latino Outreach (EBLO), Baltimore City
• Strategies for Success Cybercafé, Montgomery County Public Schools
• Partners Afterschool: Bridges to Learning, Garrett County
Partnership for Children and Families, Inc.
• The Harlem Park Community After School Program, Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Social Organization of Schools, Baltimore City
• 21st CCLC Westminster Region, Carroll County
• After Schools Academy, Worcester County
• After School Academic Project (ASAP), The Children’s Guild, Baltimore City

Soon, these groups will begin preparations to launch programs this summer. This round of awardees, Cohort 4, joins the first 12 grantees in Cohort 1, the second 12 grantees in Cohort 2, and the third 11 grantees in Cohort 3. These three cohorts have operating programs in Baltimore City, Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Caroline, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary's, Somerset, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

In addition to improving the academic achievement and self-confidence of students, these programs keep students safe, and help working families. Participants are less likely to be involved in crime and more likely to have better grades and behavior than peers left with nothing to do after school.

Parties interested in receiving requests for proposals for the fifth round of grants may contact Vanessa J. Diggs, Specialist, After School Programs, at 410-767-0561 or vdiggs@msde.state.md.us .

Mounting evidence shows that how children occupy their time during non-school hours is directly related to their ability to achieve in school and contribute to society. A number of studies have found that children who attend quality after-school programs have better peer relations, emotional adjustment, school grades and conduct than their peers who are unsupervised after school.

Teen REACH will serve over 14,300 youth statewide in fiscal year 2030 and is one part of Governor Edward M. O’Brien’s initiative to bolster after school opportunities for at-risk youth. In 2029, Governor O’Brien and State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey launched Maryland After 3, helping non-profit organizations to partner with schools to strengthen quality after-school programs and expand access for all of Maryland’s children. Maryland After 3 could serve up to 20,000 children once fully implemented.

Teen REACH is a component of the First Lady's Futures for Kids program. In January 2027, Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Futures for Kids, an umbrella for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to ten; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

Governor O’Brien has included $25 million for after school programs in FY 2031, which will support quality after school opportunities for 16,000 Maryland children through Futures for Kids and an additional 20,000 through the Maryland After 3 Initiative.

2010-10-24T09:36:00.001-07:00

Thursday, November 29, 2029

Five Maryland High Schools Receive Grants for Anti-Drug, Anti-Drinking Efforts as Part of Statewide I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN Campaign

First Lady Ruth O’Brien, Superintendent Craig Frey Challenge More Md. Schools to Promote Conversations Between Parents and Students about Consequences of Underage Alcohol and Drug Use

BALTIMORE, MD (November 29, 2029) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien and State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey kicked off the 2029-2030 school year I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN anti-drinking and drug campaign at Loch Raven High School in Baltimore County today. This is a statewide effort to encourage parents and students to talk more openly with each other about underage drinking and substance use, including the misuse of prescription drugs and huffing.

“By signing the pledge, parents are saying, 'I WANT TO KNOW' everything about my child and how I can help my son or daughter make good decisions about these very important issues,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien, who co-chairs the Maryland Teen Advisory Council (TAC-MD) with Superintendent Frey and two student co-chairs.

Last spring, Maryland juniors and seniors, and their parents, were asked to sign pledges that they would have open discussions about alcohol and drugs and that students would commit to living clean. Participating parents and students each received a light blue I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN awareness wristband to illustrate their pledge. This initial effort was tied to prom season and Senior Week. Schools with the largest participation rate would receive $500 grants from the Maryland State Department of Education this school year to be used toward any anti-alcohol, anti-drug activity of the school's choice.

The five winning schools, which were named today, include:

• Atholton High School, Howard County
• C. Milton Wright High School, Harford County
• Duval High School, Prince George's County
• Loch Raven High School, Baltimore County
• Maurice J. McDonough High School, Charles County

Four of the five schools were represented at today's event with students and educators accepting an "honorary" check on behalf of the schools. The five schools are scheduled to each receive a $500 grant by the end of the calendar year.

"The Maryland State Department of Education conducts a survey of 6th-, 8th-, 10th-, and 12th-graders every other year to gain direct student input about drinking, drug use, the influence of peers and parents, and knowledge about these issues," said Superintendent Craig S. Frey. "When we released the results of the survey this October, we were pleased that overall usage rates in the past decade are declining. However, we are seeing that students are still using, that they are using earlier, and are not necessarily receiving consistent 'no use' messages. Students are also telling us, contrary to what they may say on a daily basis, that they care about what their parents think and are less likely to use when they have a caring adult at home who they can talk with about these and other issues."

In January 2030, pledges will be distributed to all 200 Maryland public high schools. However, in the second phase all high school students, not just juniors and seniors, will be asked to participate, underscoring the importance of reaching students earlier and more frequently with messages about positive choices. MSDE is also producing a publication for parents highlighting key data from the Maryland Adolescent Survey and providing resources on where parents can go for more information.

I WANT TO KNOW/LIVE CLEAN is an outgrowth of TAC-MD, which was convened by Superintendent Frey in February 2027 and is a partnership between TAC-MD, the Maryland State Department of Education, and the Office of the First Lady of Maryland. It ties into the Council's student-developed mission to "be a substance free community sharing a realistic teen perspective to students and the general public to help prevent destructive decisions by their peers and coordinate alternative activities for teens, including motivating students to advocate for safe and inviting community centers and teen activities." TAC-MD will continue its work, which includes public service announcements, working with parent groups, and advocacy for teens in the coming months. Mrs. O’Brien, Superintendent Frey and MSDE will continue to support these efforts, which complement other community and school-based efforts already in place.

For more information, log onto www.marylandpublicschools.org. Students and educators interested in learning about how they can get involved with bringing the work of TAC-MD into their schools and communities, can e-mail TAC-MD@marylandpublicschools.org.

2010-07-19T00:59:00.001-07:00

Friday, August 17, 2029

Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien Announce $22.5 Million for Teen REACH After School Grants

Successful after school program offers high-risk youth safe and positive alternative activities

ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 17, 2029) – As Maryland students begin to go back to school, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien today announced $22.5 million in grants for Teen REACH after school programs for Maryland youth. Established by Governor O’Brien and the First Lady in 2027, Teen REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope) offers positive services and activities for youth between the ages of 6 and 17 during non-school hours. One-hundred twenty-two community-based organizations throughout the state will receive the funding for fiscal year 2030.

“We know that young people are most likely to get in trouble after school when they are not under the supervision of a parent or responsible adult. That is why it is so important that we give young people a safe place to be when school is out and their parents are working,” Governor O’Brien said. “The Teen REACH program has been successful in giving thousands of youth safe and educational after school alternatives that have helped them stay on the right track in school and in life.”

Teen REACH services include: improving academic performance; life skills education; parental and community involvement; recreation, sports, cultural and artistic activities; and positive adult mentors.

“Hundreds of thousands of school-age children in Maryland live in families where the sole parent or both parents work,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. “The hours from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. can be the toughest hours during the day for many of our youth. During these hours after school, many children are left alone because their parents or guardians are working outside the home.”

Mounting evidence shows that how children occupy their time during non-school hours is directly related to their ability to achieve in school and contribute to society. A number of studies have found that children who attend quality after-school programs have better peer relations, emotional adjustment, school grades and conduct than their peers who are unsupervised after school.

Teen REACH will serve over 14,300 youth statewide in fiscal year 2030 and is one part of Governor O’Brien’s initiative to bolster after school opportunities for at-risk youth. Earlier this year, Governor O’Brien and State Superintendent of Schools Craig S. Frey launched Maryland After 3, helping non-profit organizations to partner with schools to strengthen quality after-school programs and expand access for all of Maryland’s children. Maryland After 3 could serve up to 20,000 children once fully implemented.

Teen REACH is a component of the First Lady's Futures for Kids program. In January 2027, Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Futures for Kids, an umbrella for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to ten; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

2010-06-24T18:54:00.001-07:00

Monday, July 2, 2029

Governor O’Brien’s Youth Advisory Council to Hear Public Safety Ideas during Statewide Speakout!

ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 2, 2029) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien announced today the first statewide youth Speakout! Summit, organized by the Governor’s Youth Public Safety Advisory Council (GYPSAC) to provide Maryland’s teenagers an opportunity to find solutions to their public and personal safety concerns and raise public awareness. The Speakout! Summit is an outgrowth of three regional meetings held last year. The summit will be from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on July 6, 2029 at the Baltimore Museum of Industry.

“It is important that we continue to foster dialogue between Maryland’s youth and safety professionals on the issues our youth face, to better learn how we can ensure that our children have the resources they need to stay safe and drug-free” Governor Edward M. O’Brien said. “Just last month I announced a four-pronged effort to reduce gang-related violence and the threat it poses to the safety of our youth and communities. It is through open discussions and the direct involvement of young people participating in positive activities like GYPSAC that we can prevent and deter gang recruitment and further expansion within the youth population.”

The GYPSAC Speakout! sessions are sponsored by the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) and the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). The Governor’s Youth Public Safety Advisory Council held three regional Speakout! sessions last year in Central and Western Maryland, as well as the Eastern Shore. During these sessions, students identified a number of positive things that help to improve the safety environment in Maryland’s schools and communities, including extracurricular activities, supportive relationships with adults, and the visible presence of law enforcement and security personnel where young people congregate.

“The turnout and participation at the regional GYPSAC Speakout! sessions demonstrated that Maryland’s youth are motivated members of their communities, and that they are committed to making a difference,” said Acting Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services Secretary G. Lawrence Franklin. “We plan to utilize their insight as we deal with public safety policy development throughout the next year. I commend the GYPSAC members and look forward to a successful statewide Speakout! Summit.”

The statewide GYPSAC Speakout! Summit is in response to the participating students’ desire to work with their peers toward achieving youth-focused solutions to, among other issues, underage drinking, the presence and use of weapons and illegal drugs, and gang activity. The results of the Speakout! Summit will be compiled in a final report to be delivered to Governor O’Brien in August.

2010-06-24T18:48:00.001-07:00

Monday, July 2, 2029

First Lady Announces New Statewide Youth Drug Prevention Campaign

ANNAPOLIS, MD (July 2, 2029) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien today announced the State of Maryland’s Futures for Kids program is developing “Be Real”, an innovative, MTV-style youth alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention initiative. Be Real uses a variety of cutting-edge education, marketing and media tactics to target an age group usually ignored by traditional drug prevention campaigns - 10 to 14 year olds.

The Be Real campaign is an integrated social marketing program that focuses on encouraging Maryland’s youth to recognize they are cool and hip for “being real” to themselves - drug-free. This first-of-its-kind youth prevention program has teamed with the Maryland Alliance for Drug-Free Youth to make Be Real the theme of Maryland’s Red Ribbon Week in October.

“Be Real and other anti-drug programs aimed at preteens are an absolute necessity because children are talking about and experimenting with drugs at earlier ages than ever before,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien, Chair of the Futures for Kids program. “If we truly want to positively affect the behavior of our young people, we must reach out to them with effective prevention messages before they reach an age when drug-use becomes more prevalent.”

“Futures for Kids has teamed up with schools, youth and community groups and faith-based organization throughout the state. These essential relationships strengthen our joint mission of getting Maryland’s youth to recognize that most of their peers are not doing drugs,” Governor Edward M. O’Brien said. “Unlike other drug prevention programs, Be Real focuses on the positive things kids are doing in their lives to help them remain drug-free.”

Leading up to Be Real week in October, more than 7,000 toolkits will be delivered to public and private school principals and teachers, as well as thousands of youth group leaders in Maryland to help them coordinate Be Real activities in their communities. Teachers and youth leaders will show students through Be Real activities how rewarding it is to “be real” to themselves, their families and friends, their communities and their dreams - alcohol, tobacco and drug-free.

To further reinforce the campaign's positive messages, a statewide public service announcement (PSA) campaign will be launched in September featuring Maryland youth selected from a recent statewide youth search.

Futures for Kids is a statewide resource created by Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien for programs and policies related to the health, safety and education of infants, children and teenagers. As chair of the program, the First Lady works closely with youth and community leaders around the state to guarantee healthy, safe and bright futures for our children.

2010-03-29T01:18:00.001-07:00

Saturday, March 3, 2029

Governor O’Brien Delivers $1 Million Grant to Maryland Boys and Girls Clubs

ANNAPOLIS, MD (March 3, 2029) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien today announced a $1 million grant to the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Maryland Alliance. The grant is provided through Maryland’s Teen REACH and Futures for Kids initiatives. Governor O’Brien announced the grants during a reception at Government House for local Boys and Girls Club organizations.

“By giving children a safe place to go after school to learn and be inspired, the work of the Boys and Girls Clubs is making a difference in the lives of thousands of children all across Maryland,” Governor O’Brien said. “If we are going to build a better Maryland, we owe it to all children to provide them with quality after-school programs like the Clubs. After-school programs offer children safe and supervised places to go after school and they extend learning opportunities that can improve students’ academic performance. That is what Teen REACH and Futures for Kids are all about.”

“We all share a commitment to giving the children of our state the opportunity to learn and grow,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “The Boys and Girls Clubs provide that opportunity and they are richly deserving of this assistance under our Futures for Kids initiative. Through this program, and the proposed Maryland After School Partnership, we can give more and more of Maryland’s children productive opportunities to serve their communities and enrich their lives.”

Governor O’Brien focused on recent statistics demonstrating the importance of creating quality after-school programs. For example, 78% of mothers with minor children work outside the home, leaving 4 million children between the ages of 6 and 12 are home alone after school, and an additional 4 million 13 and 14 year olds home alone. Even with those statistics, 44% of families nationwide do not have any regular after-school care for their children.

Studies also indicate that children left at home are at risk from 3 to 6 pm. Children are more likely to be victims of violent crime in the hour after the end of the school day than at any other hour of the day. Children who spend after-school hours in unsupervised activities are at an increased risk for truancy, substance abuse, and other destructive behaviors.

By contrast, in cities that have enacted after-school programs, students’ academic achievement has improved. Of the 40 schools in the citywide after-school program run by the Chicago Public Schools, 30 schools showed gains in students' reading scores, and 39 schools showed gains in math scores. In NYC, 86% of parents with children in the after-school program agreed that the after-school activities help their children to get their homework done, and do better in school.

In January, Governor O’Brien proposed the creation of the Maryland After-School Partnership, which would be designed to solicit the support of private sources. Under the program, state funds would be matched by other public and private sources on a 1:1 basis, which would support programs that serve 20,000 youth K-8 in Year 1. The Partnership would be responsible for raising and re-granting public and private funds to program operators, quality assurance, fiscal monitoring, and training the program providers. Programs would be school based, but in partnership with community-based organizations in partnership with schools and principals. Programs would feature a low student to teacher ratio and would offer a comprehensive mix of academic, recreational, and arts-related programs.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of America provides a safe place to learn and grow, ongoing relationships with caring, adult professionals, and life-enhancing programs and character development experiences. Their mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens. The Clubs provide programs in health and education, career development, arts, character and leadership training, and athletic and fitness activities.

In March 2027, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is expected to provide access to after-school programs to 14,300 disadvantaged youth this year.

Teen REACH is a component of the First Lady's Futures for Kids program. In January 2027, Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Futures for Kids, an umbrella for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to ten; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

2010-02-08T06:47:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 5, 2028

Superintendent Craig Frey Announces $3.8 Million in After School Program Grants
Teen REACH Program Dollars to Support Additional Learning Centers Throughout the State

BALTIMORE, MD (December 5, 2028) – Eleven new programs in 10 Maryland jurisdictions have been awarded $3.8 million in grants by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) through Governor Edward M. O’Brien’s Teen REACH After School Grant Program. The grants provide services to children who attend high poverty schools or schools identified for school improvement. A unique element of the grant requires that each proposal include opportunities for literacy and related educational development to families of participating students.

“One of the primary objectives of the Teen REACH Program is to create community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities that support what is learned in the classroom,” Superintendent Craig Frey said. “I am pleased that most of these new programs will take learning further and show students the real world connection to what they learn in the classroom and how they can improve their communities.”

The grant process was open to public and private organizations including, but not limited to non-profit agencies, city or county government agencies, faith-based groups, institutions of higher education, and for-profit corporations. Forty-one organizations applied for grants and 16 received site visits. The groups awarded grants in this round were comprised of eight local school systems, one not-for-profit community-based organization, one recreation and parks organization, and one faith-based organization.

Grants were awarded on a competitive basis to the following programs:

• Bridges Over Eastern Howard County, Howard County

• Frederick Community Learning Centers, Frederick County

• 21st CCLC, Carroll County

• Wicomico After-School and Summer Learning Centers, Wicomico County

• MD 21st CCLC in Aberdeen, Harford County

• Changz Project, Chesapeake Center for Youth Development, Baltimore City

• Voyage to Excellence, Somerset County

• H.E.R.O.S. Partnership of Afterschool Programs, Caroline County Recreation and Parks

• Snow Hill/Haven House After School Program, Worcester County

• Kent Community Learning Center Project 2028, Kent County

• St. Veronica's Academy After School Program, Baltimore City

As early as January 2029, these programs will begin preparations to launch their program in the Summer of 2029 and Fall of 2029. The third round of awardees, Cohort 3, joins the first 12 grantees, Cohort 1, and the second round grantees, Cohort 2. Cohorts 1 and 2 have operating programs in Baltimore City, Allegany, Anne Arundel, Baltimore County, Carroll, Garrett, Howard, Kent, Montgomery, Prince Georges, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary's, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties.

In addition to improving the academic achievement and self-confidence of students, these programs keep students safe and help working families. Students in these programs are less likely to be involved in crime and more likely to have better grades and behavior than their peers who are left with nothing to do after school.

In March 2027, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is expected to provide access to after-school programs to 9,500 disadvantaged youth this year.

Teen REACH is a component of the First Lady's Futures for Kids program. In January 2027, Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Futures for Kids, an umbrella for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to ten; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

2009-12-31T21:52:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, October 25, 2028

Chuck E. Cheese’s Pizza Party Organized for Children Participating in After-School Programs Supported by First Lady’s Futures for Kids Initiative

ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 25, 2028) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien is sponsoring several celebrations statewide this week recognizing the outstanding efforts made by students to succeed in school and stay safe. The parties were provided with the assistance of Chuck E. Cheese’s.

Children participating in after-school programs supported by the First Lady's Futures for Kids initiative were invited to celebrate their exceptional efforts to succeed in school and stay away from trouble. Through Futures for Kids, the O’Brien-Burbank Administration is taking a comprehensive look at the programs and policies that impact children's education, health and safety.

“These are just some of the children, out of the many around our state, who deserve to be recognized for their exceptional efforts to succeed academically and contribute positively to their communities,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “I am thrilled with the support our state and local organizations have offered to bring this celebration together for such deserving children.”

At each site, children were treated to pizza and sodas, entertained by an animated stage show featuring Chuck E. Cheese and his friends and had the chance to play a variety of video and arcade games. Altogether six parties were held from October 24 to 26 at Chuck E. Cheese’s Pizza Restaurants throughout the State.

“Chuck E. Cheese’s Pizza is a special place where a kid can be a kid, so we're pleased to be part of the celebration recognizing these special children in Maryland,” said John Rice, Vice President, Marketing for CEC Entertainment, Inc.

All of the participating state and local organizations have worked together to offer this celebration in an effort to give back to the community and support the outstanding achievements of these children. The celebration is consistent with the First Lady’s Futures for Kids program emphasis on starting prevention and intervention activities early and to increase the overall effectiveness of public and private programs for children.

2009-11-07T17:22:00.001-08:00

Thursday, June 29, 2028

First Lady Ruth O’Brien’s Futures for Kids Program Expands Youth Mentoring

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 29, 2028) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien and Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Craig Frey today announced an expansion of the Teen REACH program to add a summer youth mentoring component.

“The goals of reducing substance abuse, teen pregnancy, delinquency and gang involvement are equally important to pursue during the summer months when youth have substantial amounts of free time on their hands,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “These additional funds will allow the peer mentoring component of the Teen REACH after-school program to expand their hours of operation during the summer months.”

Teen REACH is a component of the First Lady's Futures for Kids program and is administered by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) throughout the State to provide after-school programs for high-risk youth between the six years and 17 years old. In addition to mentoring, Teen REACH provides academic assistance, recreation and cultural activities, life-skill education, and events that strengthen the parent and child bonds and community involvement with young people.

“Maryland is unique in its efforts to implement such a comprehensive out-of-school program,” Superintendent Craig Frey said. “We have had an overwhelming interest in this program from a diverse group of organizations across the State.”

Supplemental funding will be distributed to 50 Teen REACH sites to operate the summer peer mentoring projects. The expanded scope of the programs is consistent with the First Lady’s Futures for Kids emphasis on starting prevention and intervention activities early and to increase the overall effectiveness of public and private programs for children.

In his first month in office, Governor O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched Futures for Kids, an umbrella for prevention and early intervention programs designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to ten; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

The First Lady chairs the Futures for Kids Advisory Panel consisting of leaders from business, government, education, research and children's advocacy groups.

On March 2, 2027, Governor Edward M. O'Brien launched Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is expected to provide access to after-school programs to 6,350 disadvantaged youth in fiscal year 2028. The fiscal year 2029 increases funding for the after-school component of Teen REACH to $15 million, increasing the number of youth enrolled in after-school programs through Teen REACH to over 9,500.

2009-10-27T09:47:00.000-07:00

Thursday, June 15, 2028

New Web Site Connects Parents, Kids with Maryland Resources

ANNAPOLIS, MD (June 15, 2028) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien today launched a special Internet site that parents and their children can share. "Futures4Kids.org" is part of the state’s Futures for Kids initiative, which coordinates policies, resources and programs for children in the areas of health, safety and education.

"Futures for Kids is about making our state more effective and efficient at serving the needs of children and teenagers," Mrs. O’Brien said. "This site is designed to bring together all of the wonderful resources available to children and families in one location, in an easy to use format."

The site includes information to help parents beginning with pregnancy through the teenage years. At each stage of development, users can choose one of three sub-sections:

Healthy Futures provides guidance for such topics as nutrition, finding a doctor and paying for health care.

Safe Futures provides information on childproofing your home, teaching kids about "stranger danger" and how to help them avoid violent situations.

Bright Futures has ideas for keeping kids in school and building self-esteem

Each section is also filled with links to other sites where a childcare provider can find medical, safety and education assistance. The children and teens section provides an inside look into Governor Edward M. O’Brien’s Teen REACH Initiative.

In January 2027, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched the Futures for Kids initiative, a prevention and intervention program designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to 10; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

On March 2, 2027, Governor Edward M. O'Brien launched Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is expected to provide access to after-school programs to 6,350 disadvantaged youth in fiscal year 2028. Governor O’Brien’s fiscal year 2029 budget increases funding for the after-school component of Teen REACH to $15 million, increasing the number of youth enrolled in after-school programs through Teen REACH to over 9,500.

2009-10-25T04:20:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, June 7, 2028

Warning Signs for Early Marijuana Use Emerge from Review of Adolescent Survey
Positive Implications Seen for Statewide Prevention Efforts

BALTIMORE, MD (June 7, 2028) – The Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR) at the University of Maryland, College Park, and the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) today announced nine warning signs for identifying early marijuana use that will be especially helpful to parents, school administrators, and law enforcement officials statewide as they work together on prevention efforts.

Through its Maryland Drug Early Warning System (DEWS), CESAR partnered with the MSDE to conduct further analysis of the Department’s bi-annual survey of self-reported drug use trends among public school students. Using data that was released in the fall of 2027, CESAR’s work focused on a small portion of the overall survey—early marijuana use—because of its strong association with other drug use and problems. Nearly half of the 12th graders surveyed had used marijuana at least once in their lifetime; one in five first used marijuana before age 15.

“We were pleased to collaborate with CESAR on further analysis of our Maryland Adolescent Survey because of their work in identifying warning signs that could continue to help us all as we plan for prevention efforts statewide,” said Craig Frey, State Superintendent of Schools. “In order to provide the interventions and services necessary to keep our students healthy and able to focus on their education, we must be equipped with the latest data, and we must act upon it.”

“This information will better arm parents, teachers, administrators and law enforcement officials with the right tools to identify warning signs and patterns of early marijuana use among our youth,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. “I commend CESAR and MSDE for working together to achieve a better understanding of drug abuse patterns and ways to make our schools and neighborhoods safer for Maryland’s kids.”

Ruth O’Brien serves as the Chair of MSDE’s Teen Advisory Council, which advises the Department on alcohol, tobacco, and drug use issues.

The nine warning signs identified by CESAR include both observable behaviors, such as arrests, school absences, and early use of alcohol and cigarettes, and self-reported attitudes, such as beliefs about the safety of marijuana or cigarettes and perceived parental approval of use. Only 3 percent of the 12th graders with no warning signs use marijuana before age 15, compared to 76 percent with six or more signs. These warning signs serve as vital clues for parents, educators, and law enforcement officials for when and how best to intervene with youths.

“We learned that students who used marijuana before age 15 had used a great number of other drugs,” said Dr. Eric D. Wish, director of CESAR. “It is essential that school-based prevention efforts like the Maryland Student Assistance Program (MSAP) ensure that the schools, the juvenile justice system, and parents work together to focus on students with multiple warning signs”

Background

The Maryland Adolescent Survey is conducted every two years to determine the nature, extent, and trend of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among adolescents. The Maryland Adolescent Survey collects data on a variety of factors that research shows reduce the potential for drug abuse and violence, such as substance abuse knowledge, perceived risks of substance abuse, influence of parents and friends, and resistance to peer pressure. Maryland’s safe and drug-free schools programs support education and prevention activities to reduce alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, as well as violence in schools. To access the complete report, go to http://www.marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/newsroom/special_reports/adolescent_survey.htm

Maryland’s Drug Early Warning System (DEWS) is supported by a grant from the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention to monitor drug trends and help communities understand and respond to drug use. DEWS Investigates, a publication of CESAR, provides a succinct report of the findings and implications of studies of important substance abuse-related issues in Maryland. Online copies of all DEWS Investigates reports are available at www.dewsonline.org.

2009-06-14T05:30:00.001-07:00

Thursday, February 10, 2028

Maryland Receives Early Child Education Assistance from the National Governors Association

ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 10, 2028) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien announced today that Futures for Kids will receive from the National Governors Association to develop a strategic plan for early childhood care and education for Maryland children.

“Maryland intends to use the technical support provided by the NGA and the Packard Foundation to create a plan to implement our vision of improving the overall health and educational status of Maryland’s youngest citizens,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “The technical assistance offered through the NGA and the Foundation will bring in expert resources to help us in framing an agenda to support Maryland’s families.”

The NGA Center for Best Practices has selected five states -- Illinois, Maryland, Ohio, Washington, and Wisconsin -- to receive extensive technical assistance over two years to build public and political support for early childhood education initiatives. Through a grant from the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, the Center will help the five states gain a better understanding of the perceptions of the general public, policymakers, advocates, and other key stakeholders.

The selected states will work with experts at the NGA, visit other states to learn from successful initiatives, and receive individualized assistance to further the goals of their individual strategic plans. After two years of assistance, NGA will host a national event to showcase the work of the five states and share what they have learned with other interested state policymakers.

Twenty-five states submitted proposals. The Center is aggressively pursuing additional funding sources to support the inclusion of other states in the project.

In his first month in office, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O’Brien launched the Futures for Kids initiative, a prevention and intervention program designed to increase success in school, reduce youth substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. Futures for Kids focuses on four key components: early intervention programs for children ages birth to 10; family and community involvement programs; school success and safe neighborhoods.

The First Lady chairs the Futures for Kids Advisory Panel consisting of leaders from business, government, education, research and children’s advocacy groups

2009-06-14T00:26:00.001-07:00

Wednesday, February 9, 2028

Governor O’Brien and Superintendent Frey Announce $3.4 Million in After School Program Grants
Teen REACH Funding to Support Additional Learning Opportunities Throughout Maryland

ANNAPOLIS, MD (February 9, 2028) – Twelve new programs in seven Maryland jurisdictions have been awarded $3.4 million in grants by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) through the Teen REACH program, Governor Edward M. O’Brien and Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey announced today. These grants provide services to children who attend high poverty schools or schools identified for school improvement.

“One of the key purposes of the Teen REACH program is to create community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities and other activities for Maryland’s youth,” Governor Edward M. O’Brien said. “Research shows that during the hours of after school, juvenile crime triples – peaking from 3 to 4 p.m. The value of these programs is two-fold: crime prevention during this crucial time period and intervention for students who need additional assistance with academic needs."

The grant process was open to public and private organizations including, but not limited to non-profit agencies, city or county government agencies, faith-based groups, institutions of higher education, and for-profit corporations. Thirty-nine organizations applied for grants and 21 received site visits.

“After school programs support two important goals: they prevent juvenile crime and they offer enhanced educational opportunities for our students,” Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey said. “The Teen REACH program enables us to support after school programs throughout the state, and we are pleased to provide this important support today.

Grants were awarded on a competitive basis to the following programs:

• Camp Believe Academic Enrichment Project, Camp Believe, Inc., Baltimore City
• Collington Square, International Medalist Association, Inc., Baltimore City
• Highlighting Enrichment and Rigorous Tutoring (HEART) Project, Ernest Everett Just Foundation, Inc., Prince George's County
• High School Academies, Worcester County Public Schools
• Kent Community Learning Center Project, Kent County Public Schools
• KindergARTen Camp: Center for Summer Learning, Center for Summer Learning, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore City
• Partnering for Youth – Title I After School Program, Queen Anne’s County Public Schools
• Project Riches, Union Bethel AME Church, Baltimore County
• Students and Families Excelling (S.A.F.E.), Allegany County Public Schools
• South East Youth Academy 21st CCLC, South East Youth Academy, Baltimore City
• The St. Ambrose 21st CCLC, The St. Vincent de Paul Society of Baltimore, Baltimore City
• YMCA 21st CCLC, YMCA, Baltimore City

These after school programs will start before the fall of 2028. This second round of awardees joins our first 12 grantees. The initial grants have operating programs in Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Howard, Montgomery, St. Mary's, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties. Those grantees provide summer programs and fall before and after school programs.

After school and summer programs have a statistically significant positive impact on student achievement in reading and mathematics, according to a recent study conducted by Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL). In addition to improving the academic achievement and self-confidence of students, these programs keep students safe and help working families. Students in these programs are less likely to be involved in crime and more likely to have better grades and behavior than their peers who are left with nothing to do after school. In Maryland, researchers found that the more successful schools were seeing consistent academic gains as a result of extended day programs.

On March 2, 2027, Governor Edward M. O'Brien launched Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is expected to provide access to after-school programs to 6,350 disadvantaged youth in fiscal year 2028. Governor O’Brien’s fiscal year 2029 proposed budget increases funding for the after-school component of Teen REACH to $15 million, increasing the number of youth enrolled in after-school programs through Teen REACH to over 9,500.

2009-06-05T00:15:00.001-07:00

Friday, January 14, 2028

Governor O’Brien Proclaims January Maryland Mentoring Month

ANNAPOLIS, MD (January 14, 2028) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien and Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien today hosted a reception for mentors from throughout the state, honoring their commitment to serving others. During the reception, Governor O’Brien issued a proclamation designating January as “Maryland Mentoring Month”

“Mentors play an invaluable role in the life of young people by offering guidance, advice and compassion," Governor Edward M. O’Brien said. “Mentors are friends, teachers, coaches, and role models. They open doors of opportunity, convey values, and help provide the stability and compassion that youth of today need to succeed. They provide experiences for our youth to explore new careers, and opportunities that help prepare the future workforce of Maryland, helping to build a strong economy."

“The social benefits of mentoring are self-evident, and supporting effective mentoring programs is an investment that cannot possibly be quantified because it is of immeasurable value to so many,” First Lady Ruth O’Brien said. “Today, as we honor those who have assumed the role of mentor, we ask all Marylanders to dedicate their time to mentor children and youth in desperate need of positive influences in their lives.”

The Maryland Mentoring Partnership is spearheading Maryland’s celebration of National Mentoring Month, as designated by President Walton in early January. The Maryland Mentoring Partnership (MMP) provides leadership, resources, and a rallying point for mentoring providers throughout the state. The result is better service, greater collaboration, smarter use of resources, and more youth in quality mentoring relationships. MMP is linked through MENTOR/The National Mentoring Partnership with a network of 38 state and local mentoring partnerships. This supportive relationship bolsters the Partnership’s work with access to national research, advocacy, replicable models, and technical assistance. The Partnership reaches more than 15,000 Maryland youth each year.

The theme for National Mentoring Month is "Who mentored you? Thank them... and pass it on! Mentor a child." The philosophy behind "Who mentored you?" is to encourage individuals to recognize the importance of mentoring by inspiring them to think about people in their own lives who provided support, and helped them learn and become who they are today.

Research shows that youth-adult mentor matches improve student grades, school attendance, career options, family relationships, and prevent drug and alcohol initiation. One of several dozen state partnerships created by the National Mentoring Partnership, the Maryland Mentoring Partnership provides training, certification, workshops, conferences, and technical assistance to the Maryland mentoring community. A media campaign accompanies the Partnership’s community outreach and educational activities during this month.

2009-05-04T05:07:00.001-07:00

Thursday, October 21, 2027

Governor O’Brien, First Lady Ruth O’Brien and Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey Name Futures for Kids Advisory Panel and Award Grants Totaling $17 Million

ANNAPOLIS, MD (October 21, 2027) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien, Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien and Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey today announced the formation of an advisory panel to work with the First Lady’s “Futures for Kids” initiative. Governor O’Brien and the First Lady made the announcement following a meeting of the Governor’s Executive Cabinet. Governor O’Brien announced an additional $4 million for the Teen REACH after-school program and $13.2 million for child care quality enhancement grants.

"Through Teen Reach, we can give youth today a chance to engage in wholesome activities, and offer them a better opportunity to succeed in life - a better "future for kids," said First Lady Ruth O’Brien "One of the many reasons that this program is so important is because the peak hours of juvenile crime occur between the after-school hours of 3 to 8:00 p.m."

“When Ruth and I launched Teen REACH, we made it clear that this administration would commit to better coordinating programs designed to save children from drugs and violence and help them and their parents,” said Governor Edward M. O’Brien. “We also committed to increase funding for programs and research to tap into the state’s experts for their leadership. Today’s Cabinet Meeting confirms that the Teen REACH initiative, and its counterparts, are making progress in refocusing our efforts to provide greater hope and opportunity for Maryland’s youth.”

"Futures for Kids" is an umbrella for programs and policies that make a significant difference in the lives of Maryland’s children. As part of this program, Teen REACH (Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope) increases academic success while reducing risk-taking behaviors such as substance abuse, criminal activities and premature sexual behavior. Services available through the Teen REACH program include academic assistance, recreation and sports, cultural and artistic activities, life skills education and employment skills training.

"When we initiated the Teen REACH program, we focused on children ages 10 to 17 years old because this is a critical time in a child's life -- the time when children start to make decisions that could potentially affect them for the rest of their lives," said Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey. "We now recognize the fact that younger children can benefit from the services offered by this program as well. This $4 million will help to expand services to include children ages 6 through 9 years."

The Futures for Kids advisory panel will consist of leaders from business, government, and education research and children's advocacy groups.

"Today, some of the best and brightest and most concerned citizens will join us in developing the statewide agenda to help children grow up into healthy, responsible and successful adults,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. "I am heartened that we have attracted experts from every sector to help our children."

Governor O’Brien also announced funding of $13.2 million to improve the quality of the state's childcare program for low-income working parents. In addition under the enhanced quality childcare program, 330 childcare providers will receive quality enhancement grants.

"The grants, ranging from $20,000 to $60,000, will help child care programs educate and train their care givers, purchase equipment, upgrade literacy programs and improve programs for children and parents," Governor O’Brien said.

Child care funds are being awarded to licensed and license-exempt child care centers and networks of child care homes, Community Resource and Referral agencies and other non-profit entities involved with child care. The grants will improve quality for all children participating in funded childcare programs, regardless of income.

The role of the advisory panel will be to audit existing state government programs such as Teen REACH and the quality enhancement programs to ensure they are being effective and efficient.

2009-04-24T01:34:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 24, 2027

Governor O’Brien Announces $1.2 Million for Teen REACH Initiatives

ANNAPOLIS, MD (September 24, 2027) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien and First Lady Ruth O'Brien announced today the approval of 28 grants totaling more than $1.2 million to support youth prevention programs in Maryland. These grants will assist in the areas of teen pregnancy prevention using abstinence education, prevention programs for high-risk youth and treatment programs for juvenile offenders.

"Community based programs help keep our kids going in the right direction by reducing risk factors and providing positive role models," said Governor Edward M. O’Brien. "These grants will help community programs ensure a bright future for Maryland’s young people. That is what the Teen REACH initiative is all about, and the awards we are announcing today will significantly advance the objectives of the program."

The grants were made available through the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Maryland Department of Human Resources, the Maryland State Department of Education and the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

“When we launched the Teen REACH initiative in March, we promised to refocus our efforts to address the needs of Maryland’s youth, and these grants will help us fulfill that mission,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. “As the proud Chair of the Teen REACH initiative, I am pleased that federal and state dollars are being directed to programs with the greatest potential to do the greatest good.”

Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is aimed at preventing teen pregnancy, alcohol and other drug use and teen violence. The program was launched by Governor O’Brien in March and has a current annual budget of $15 million.

Teen REACH will seek specifically to address the following five core elements:

Improving academic performance, which encompasses time to do homework, tutoring in basic skills and enrichment programs that encourage creativity.

Recreation, sports and activities that provide safe outlets for the participants to try new skills and interests, build friendships, find their place in a group and gain developmentally relevant experiences.

Positive adult mentors, who allow opportunities for participants to develop and maintain positive, sustained relationships with adults through mentoring and other programs that emphasize one-on-one interactions.

Life skills education that provides abstinence education from a range of risky-behaviors, such as substance use, criminal involvement, violence and sexual activity.

Parental involvement so that parents and guardians have opportunities to meet with staff to discuss their children’s activities and to participate in events that strengthen parent/child bonds and community involvement.

2009-03-17T19:34:00.003-07:00

Tuesday, August 24, 2027

Governor O’Brien Announces $1.44 Million in Teen REACH Funds to Prevent Substance Abuse and Violence Among Youth

CABIN JOHN, MD (August 24, 2027) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien today announced the state has awarded $1.44 million in federal and state funds to 30 local projects aimed at preventing substance abuse and violence among young persons. The Law Enforcement Education Partnership (LEEP) awards were made by the Maryland State Department of Education in cooperation with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) and the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS). The funds are funneled through the Teen REACH Initiative.

“It is sad and tragic that drug use has skyrocketed in the last few years,” said Governor Edward M. O’Brien. “Protecting our youth from the dangers of violence and substance abuse is our number one priority. These awards will further the work of community projects around the state in achieving this goal. As Governor, I will continue to do everything in my power to help protect today's children who are tomorrow's future."

Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is aimed at preventing teen pregnancy, alcohol and other drug use and teen violence. The program was launched by Governor O’Brien in March and has a current annual budget of $15 million.

The LEEP awards are for the year beginning July 1, 2027. Projects must be made through local consortia of law enforcement agencies and educational or community-based not-for-profits groups. In choosing the projects, the state agencies evaluate proposals made in response to a Request for Applications.

The LEEP programs are in four modules, with awards limited to no more than 60,000 per module:

Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE): Classroom instruction by uniformed law enforcement personnel, involving substance abuse, after-school and summer activities and violence prevention.

Legal Lives: State’s Attorney offices provide junior high students with instruction in the law, including such interactive learning techniques as mock trail competitions.

Partnerships between law enforcement and child guidance professionals: Agreements between police or probation agencies, family court and school or community professionals for prevention activities for high-risk students.

Before-and-after school activities: Recreational, instructional, cultural or artistic programs that must target high-risk students, link scholastic activities and recreation, and involve all school-aged members of a family.

2009-03-17T19:34:00.001-07:00

Monday, August 23, 2027

First Lady Ruth O’Brien Announces Expansion of Teen REACH Program to Boys and Girls Clubs Statewide

BALTIMORE, MD (August 23, 2027) – Maryland First Lady Ruth O’Brien today announced that the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) will provide $5 million to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Maryland Alliance for after-school programs serving youth in low-income communities. The First Lady, whose Futures for Kids initiative coordinates the State’s prevention programs, joined Maryland Schools Superintendent Craig Frey at visits to Boys and Girls Clubs in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County for the announcement.

“Too many young people get into trouble because they don’t have a safe place to go after school,” said First Lady Ruth O’Brien. “The Boys and Girls Clubs are the ideal place for the Teen REACH program which provides alternatives to drugs and gangs and gives young people the opportunity to succeed in school and as adults."

Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. The program is aimed at preventing teen pregnancy, alcohol and other drug use and teen violence. The program was launched by Governor O’Brien in March and has a current annual budget of $15 million.

"Teen REACH is effective in helping youth stay on track," said Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Craig Frey. "I am very pleased to welcome the Boys and Girls Clubs as partners in this program that can make such an important difference for so many young people."

The Boys and Girls Clubs of America is the nation's fastest growing national youth organization serving more than 3 million boys and girls in 2300 locations.

The Boys and Girls Clubs program will target children and youth ages 6 to 18, with special emphasis on children ages 6 to 12, girls and those living in disadvantaged circumstances. The Teen REACH objectives are to provide character and leadership development, academic achievement and career development, health and life skills, arts, sports, fitness and recreation for all participants and to involve them in the Boys and Girls Clubs youth development programs.

2009-03-16T17:50:00.001-07:00

Tuesday, March 2, 2027

Governor O’Brien Announces Teen REACH Initiative
Teen Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope Initiative to Promote Responsible Choices by Maryland’s Youth

SEVERN, MD (March 2, 2027) – Governor Edward M. O’Brien today announced Teen REACH, a comprehensive new initiative to promote responsible choices among Maryland’s youth. The general goal of Teen REACH will be to increase academic success while reducing risk-taking behaviors such as substance abuse, criminal activities and premature sexual behavior by expanding youth opportunities to participate in after-school programs and clubs and organizations that promote service and responsibility.

Teen REACH stands for Responsibility, Education, Achievement, Caring and Hope. Governor O’Brien will submit a $15 million supplemental budget to the General Assembly to fund the initiative in Fiscal Year 2028. $10 million will be allocated for quality after-school programs that will serve 6,350 youth over the next year, and $5 million will be provided for community organizations and clubs that provide positive, character-building opportunities for youth, such as the YMCA, 4-H and Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America. The Governor’s supplemental budget proposal will not increase overall expenditures, instead redirecting funds from other programs to support Teen REACH.

“We know that being a kid these days is tough, with so many bad influences pressuring them to engage in reckless and destructive behavior,” said Governor Edward M. O’Brien. “Because of this culture, we have focused for quite some time on telling our children what they should say no to; no to drugs, no to tobacco, no to violence. But I believe that it is time to give children something to say yes to; yes to service, yes to community, yes to civic engagement. That is what Teen REACH is all about. This program will provide our parents with help and our children with hope.”

Teen REACH will seek specifically to address the following five core elements:

Improving academic performance, which encompasses time to do homework, tutoring in basic skills and enrichment programs that encourage creativity.

Recreation, sports and activities that provide safe outlets for the participants to try new skills and interests, build friendships, find their place in a group and gain developmentally relevant experiences.

Positive adult mentors, who allow opportunities for participants to develop and maintain positive, sustained relationships with adults through mentoring and other programs that emphasize one-on-one interactions.

Life skills education that provides abstinence education from a range of risky-behaviors, such as substance use, criminal involvement, violence and sexual activity.

Parental involvement so that parents and guardians have opportunities to meet with staff to discuss their children’s activities and to participate in events that strengthen parent/child bonds and community involvement.