MAPPS Careers First

Through its Careers First program, the Columbia Urban League launched the Medicaid Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Services in July 2007. Program services are available to at-risk, Medicaid eligible youth between the ages of 10 and 19. The program currently serves approximately 400 participants who reside in the Columbia area.

All participants must be enrolled in school and obtain parental consent. The program provides family planning counseling that assists participants in making informed decisions regarding abstinence, delaying sexual activity, avoiding sexually transmitted diseases and infections, and knowing appropriate birth control methods. Under the direction of a licensed professional counselor, the participants receive counseling, educational services, assessments, individually tailored case plans, and home visitations.

Careers First is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services.