DCFS SPONSORS CONFERENCE
FOR PREGNANT AND PARENTING TEENS

CHICAGO, IL, JUNE 6, 1997 --The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is sponsoring its third annual conference for pregnant and parenting adolescents to be held at Olive Harvey College, 10001 S. Woodlawn on Tuesday, June 10 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.
The event, which surrounds the theme "Breaking Down the Barriers to Effective Parenting for Young Adults," is expected to attract 400 pregnant and parenting adolescents from around the state. Scheduled workshops topics include effective parenting, health issues for mothers and children, domestic violence, self-esteem, nutrition, employment and independent living.

"The purpose of this conference is to motivate and encourage our pregnant and parenting teenagers to become better parents by providing them with information that will enhance their self-esteem and general knowledge," said Frances Elbert, Pregnant and Parenting Teen Coordinator for DCFS.

Dr. Dennis R. Watson is the featured speaker of the event. Dr. Watson, a renown motivational speaker, has received more than 500 awards for his work with youth nationwide, including five commendations from the White House. In his career he has addressed more than 1,000 national organizations including the National Governor's Association, the Child Welfare League and the NAACP.

Workshops will be conducted by DCFS and private agency staff. There will also be former DCFS wards on hand to share their experiences and assist with the sessions.

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