by Lynne Smith, Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic

Most people probably know that Planned Parenthood is a place to go for birth control or pregnancy tests. But we offer a lot more – including breast exams, pap tests, emergency contraception, men’s health care and prenatal care.

Even less well known is the fact that Planned Parenthood does other things like running a cool program in Rockland high schools where teens are trained as peer sexuality educators to work as mentors for other students. When a teenager has questions about sex, they’re much more likely to turn to a friend or fellow student, rather than a teacher or parent. That’s why the Teen Information and Peer Services (TIPS) program works so well.

And if you think this is important work, it’s a place where you can help. Fortunately, it doesn’t involve trying to being a teen or young adult, again.

For almost 30 years, students in Rockland schools have been counting on this vital program for getting information about healthy relationships, disease prevention, and contraception. Unfortunately, a grant that has helped offset costs since the ‘90s was reduced this year and Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic has launched a fundraising campaign to raise $40,000 to keep the program going.

I hope you can join us on Thursday, June 6 for a special evening to benefit this program at a scenic, historical, beautiful river side setting in the historic Bath House at Nyack Beach State Park.

Mediterranean wines and hors d’oeuvres will be served, and a silent auction and raffle will help Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic celebrate its 80th anniversary. The fundraiser will run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Rockland residents Dr. Sonya and Milton Shapiro and Susan Hito-Shapiro are being honored.

Tickets are $80 for adults and $40 for young professionals (persons 30 and under). For tickets or information, contact (914) 467-7342or Catherine.mason@pphp.org.

Learn more about what Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic offers at www.pphp.org.