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A brief history of ULTRA Teen Choice

ULTRA (Urban Life Training and Reality Assessment )Teen Choice was founded by Richard and Stacey Urban in response to the pressing need of youth for clear guidance in making wise choices in the area of sexual health.

ULTRA Teen Choice has offered  classroom multimedia presentations  to students in Wards 6 and 8 in Washington, DC since1997.   ULTRA Teen Choice was incorporated as an independent nonprofit corporation in Washington, DC in March of 2003.  Classroom education has been offered at eight schools in Washington, DC.  In all, over 1300 students at these schools have participated in ULTRA Teen Choice programs. Additionally, 200 students have participated at the Lincoln Park United Methodist Church, the Washington Family Church, Imani Temple African American Catholic Congregation, and other churches.

The  ULTRA Teen Choice program provides a supportive peer environment for those students who choose to be sexually abstinent and drug free.  Older high school students model a lifestyle of living for the sake of others, including reaching out to other students in need of their example, friendship, encouragement and advice.  Peer counseling sessions for freshman and younger students led by upper classmen are an important part of this outreach.

ULTRA Teen Choice has also given presentations to community organizations, such as the Public Interest Civic Association.  Training seminars are another important element in spreading the ULTRA Teen Choice message.  ULTRA Teen Choice holds periodic  training seminars for youth and adults.

    Retreats for high school students are held each year.  A winter and a summer retreat were held in 2003, serving a total of 65 students.  Students experience new bonds of friendship in a supportive environment.  Students learn how to be a peer counselor and how to make smart life choices as they participate in group activities, games, and presentations.  Student testimonies were also recorded during a digital video taping session.  There is also time for personal meditation, reflection, or prayer.