Reducing the Risk /Curricula:

1. Introduction: Overview of the program and its goals.
2. Refusal Skills: Techniques to confidently say no to risky behaviors.
3. Delay Tactics: Strategies to postpone risky situations.
4. Information Skills: Gathering and using accurate health information.
5. Risks of Unprotected Sex: Understanding consequences of unprotected sex.
6. Contraception Facts: Information about different contraceptive methods.
7. Role-Playing Refusal: Practicing refusal skills in various scenarios.
8. Communication Skills: Effective communication techniques with peers and partners.
9. Assessing Risks: Identifying and evaluating risky situations.
10. STD Information: Facts about sexually transmitted diseases.
11. Role-Playing Delay: Practicing delay tactics in different scenarios.
12. Influence of Alcohol and Drugs: Impact of substances on decision-making.
13. Getting Help and Support: Accessing resources and seeking help when needed.
14. Role-Playing Information: Using accurate health information in discussions.
15. Understanding Relationships: Building and maintaining healthy relationships.
16. Review and Reflection: Recap of key lessons and personal reflections. 

What is TOP Club?

TOP Club (Teen Outreach Program) is a youth development program that supports middle and high school students in building life skills, forming healthy relationships, and giving back to their community. Much like other school clubs (e.g., Debate Club or Chess Club), TOP Club can be offered during or after school hours and is led by a trained Health Educator.

A key component of TOP Club is community service. Students are required to complete a minimum of 20 hours of volunteer work, which helps them build real-world skills, boost their confidence, and strengthen college and job applications.

TOP utilizes three student workbooks and a facilitation guide, designed to help students explore and develop essential social, emotional, and decision-making skills. Below is a summary of each book and its lessons:

Learning About Myself

Helps students understand their identity and well-being.

• Self-Understanding – Students explore their personal strengths, values, and beliefs.
• Social Identity – Students learn how background, culture, and community shape identity.
• Health & Wellness – Focuses on developing healthy habits for physical and emotional well-being.

Connecting With Others

Encourages positive communication and relationship-building.

• Community – Highlights the importance of contributing to and engaging with the community.
• Empathy – Teaches students how to understand and respect others’ feelings and experiences.
• Communication – Builds active listening and clear expression skills.
• Relationships – Helps students identify healthy and respectful relationships.

Building My Skills

Develops key life skills that prepare students for future success.

• Emotion Management – Helps students recognize and regulate their emotions in healthy ways.
• Decision-Making – Guides students in making responsible, thoughtful choices.
• Problem-Solving – Equips students with tools to resolve conflicts and challenges effectively.
• Goal-Setting – Encourages students to set, plan, and achieve personal goals.

Facilitation Guide:

Health Educators use a detailed Facilitation Guide to lead each lesson confidently and effectively. This guide ensures that all activities are engaging, age-appropriate, and aligned with the learning objectives. The TOP Club is an evidence-based program, meaning its curriculum and approach are backed by research and proven to positively impact teen development, decision-making, and emotional wellness.

Why Join TOP Club?

By participating in TOP Club, students gain:

• Leadership and teamwork experience
• Volunteer hours for college/job applications
• Stronger communication and life skills
• A safe, supportive space to grow personally and socially

For more information, please contact the Bourbon County Health Department’s Health Educator or your school counselor.