The non-denominational Christian organization Young Life plans to launch a new group at Woodrow Wilson High School to help teenage mothers.

The group would serve as a support system and mentoring opportunity for the girls, but would not necessarily focus on parenting skills, says Kristin Klungvedt, area director for Young Life Lakewood.

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“That’s not really our job. We’re not going to be telling them how to parent,” she says. “We’re just going to be there for them … older women coming along and walking beside them.”

More than 100 teenage mothers attend Woodrow, Klungvedt says, and another 30 girls are pregnant.

“I just realized that we have a huge need for this type of ministry in the community.”

Young Life has chapters based in more than 78,800 high schools nationwide. Through meeting and camp activities, the organization aims to bring God into young people’s lives, Klungvedt says.

“Basically we meet kids where they are,” she says. “We try to get the kids who don’t really go to church.”

Young Life’s teen mom ministry will be separate from the chapter that already operates at Woodrow.

Monthly meetings will serve as fellowship for the girls, Klungvedt says — a time to eat, talk, do crafts and relax. Free babysitting will be provided.

Meetings will start in September with the new school year.

In the meantime, Klungvedt is recruiting volunteers to help the new club. All types of jobs are available, such as babysitting, planning activities and direct interaction with club members.

“There’s a lot to be done to get this going,” she says.

A meeting for potential volunteers will be at 7 p.m. April 10 at the Young Life Lakewood office, 11300 N. Central Expressway, Ste. 600.

For information about membership or volunteering, call 214-773-4348.