Program helps at-risk adolescents

At risk adolescents can often grow up into adults that end up getting into bigger trouble. But, one local program has found a way to turn young people's lives around.

The Foundation 2 Skill Building Program aims to change their behavior and improve their family life.

"I had really bad anger outbursts and I couldn't really tell myself to stop. When I got upset, I was physical. I threw things,” one teen said.

Another teen said, "I was always getting into trouble."

Now, both teens rarely get into arguments and often rely on techniques they learn at Foundation 2 when they get into frustrating situations.

"Our group isn't fun and games. We're really dealing with tough topics, difficult situations these kids find themselves in,” Foundation 2 Supervisor Amie Kaster said.

Program coordinators also reach out to parents who have lost patience with their troubled teen.

"You know those commercials with the hair products and the girl's hair is out to here? That's how I was with my daughter,” parent Chastity Bishop said, "There are no more storms at our house…Craziness went to calm."

Creating that change requires a commitment from the entire family.

"We really work on positive decision making, good communication, anger management, how to use your coping skills,” Kaster said.

By showing teens they're not alone and giving them a chance to learn how to cope with anger, the program can turn at-risk adolescents into high achieving adults.

A recent study found the program has an eighty percent success rate -- meaning teens stop getting into as much trouble after they complete the program.

Programs are available year-round, including the summer when teens find themselves getting into trouble because they have nothing to do.

**NOTE: Teens' names are not included in this story at the request of Foundation 2.

For more information, visit: http://www.foundation2.org

By Mark Geary, KCRG-TV