WillPower is a teen pregnancy prevention program that utilizes peer theatre—supported by sexual education and parental involvement—to encourage Chicago-area students to think critically about their sexual choices and reproductive health. WillPower engages students in a series of interactive, improvisational mini-plays whereby negative sexual behavior is demonstrated and positive behavior is modeled by peers. Students are supported with factual information and discussion in the classroom made possible through support from community educators and funding from the Illinois Department of Health.

Students work with each other to create mini-plays that are authentic and appropriate. The program has 4 basic components: a teen ensemble, program facilitators, a program evaluator and community educators. By linking together outside health educators, theatre actors, students and their health teacher, WillPower is able to a create a safe space for students to express their opinions and ideas about their sexual health. WillPower allows students to model positive sexual behaviors. 

At the completion of this program, youth will:

• State accurate information about teen pregnancy, HIV, and other sexually transmitted infections, including means of prevention, transmission, and current community impact
• Believe in the value of safer sex, including abstinence and delaying sexual intercourse
• Have confidence in their ability to negotiate sexual situations and take pride in choosing responsible sexual behaviors
• Reduce sexual risk behaviors
• Demonstrate refusal skills, assertive communication, problem-solving, and risk reduction

If you are interested in learning more about WillPower, please contact Sarah at scummings@mgrf.org