Orange County NC Website
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15 <br /> for the children of adolescent mothers has helped. Also, the mortality rate in Orange County has <br /> decreased because of the reduced rate of teenage pregnancy. <br /> In spite of all the progress, Orange County youths still have many unmet needs. The school <br /> dropout rate remains distressingly high. There is still far too much use and availability of drugs <br /> and alcohol. Adolescents are stressed by the multiple demands of our society. As the Research <br /> Triangle becomes a boom area, many of the children of the people who built this county are <br /> falling behind in their ability to panicipate in the economic growth. <br /> Dr. Loda challenged his audience to consider Orange County resources and problems, "not in a <br /> spirit of panic, not in a spirit of despair, nor in the spirit of blind optimism." Rather, he encour- <br /> aged seeking the help of adolescents, and setting about"correcting some of the situations that <br /> lead to failure and replacing them with opportunities for success." <br /> Six "break-out" groups met to discuss problems, issues and gaps in youth services. Their pur- <br /> poses were to find possible solutions and/or strategies. Following are outlines of key points cov- <br /> ered. <br /> Contents <br /> Teensin Crisis......................................3 <br /> Education and Drop-Out Prevention....4 <br /> Leisure .................................................6 <br /> Employment.........................................7 <br /> Teens and Their Families .....................8 <br /> Povenv ............................................... 10 <br />