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honoring pioneers and changemakers

Highlights from the 2024 Healthy Futures Luncheon

Our [2024 Annual San Antonio Luncheon]([link removed]) was a celebration of vision, commitment and impact for a healthier Texas. Since its inception in 2010, this luncheon has been a key gathering for San Antonio's civic, business, and philanthropic leaders to raise awareness of sexual health and to support programs that foster positive outcomes for Texas youth and women. This year, we proudly honored outstanding community leaders who have made remarkable contributions to our shared mission.

[Dr. Kristen Plastino]([link removed]), a professor at UT Health San Antonio and the founder/CEO of UT Teen Health, was honored with the prestigious Trailblazer Award, named in honor of Dr. Janet Realini, for her groundbreaking work and inspirational leadership. Dr. Plastino's vision and commitment are impacting countless youth, women, and families through her innovative efforts. Watch her inspiring speech, introduced by our CEO, Evelyn Delgado, [here]([link removed]).

[Live the Life Church]([link removed]) (LTL) received the Community Service Award for their unwavering dedication to community well-being. Through tireless efforts, compassion, and a collaborative spirit, they have empowered families toward better health and brighter futures, making a meaningful impact in the lives they serve and standing as a shining example of community service. Catch Pastor Melissa Caddel’s inspiring speech, representing LTL, [here]([link removed]).

Thank you to everyone who attended and supported this year’s luncheon. Your contributions enable Healthy Futures of Texas to continue delivering transformative programs for youth, families, and communities across Texas.

new insights on teen birth rates

The teen birth rate declined by 5% in 2023, reversing increases that Texas saw in 2022. However, rates of disparities continued to worsen. In 2023, Hispanic teens had a teen birth rate that was 2.7 times higher than their white peers, increasing from 2.6 times higher in 2022. Hispanic teens make up 64% of all teen births in Texas.

For a deeper look into the recently released 2023 data and what it means for Texas youth, visit [hftx.org]([link removed])

advocacy update

The White House has announced a [proposed rule]([link removed]) that would require private insurance companies to pay for over the counter birth control pills and other contraceptive methods. This regulation would also expand access to birth control methods such as IUDs without cost sharing. If approved, it would go into effect next year. The new rule would cover Opill, the first over the counter birth control pill, which was approved for sale in drugstores without a prescription earlier this year.

partner spotlight

[Incarnation House]([link removed]) provides a safe space for Dallas youth facing housing insecurity, offering wrap-around services where youth can build relationships, enjoy a meal, and gain new skills and resources in the community. Driven by their mission to break the cycle of generational poverty and transform young lives, Incarnation House has been a valued partner for over four years, collaborating with us to deliver sexual health and healthy relationship programming to their youth while equipping their team with essential training and support.

let's talk month recap

October is recognized as Let’s Talk Month, a time to foster open communication with youth. As we conclude this month, we encourage you to initiate simple conversations about relationships and feelings, laying a safe groundwork for discussing more sensitive topics. When teens see you as a trustworthy listener, it enhances their willingness to engage in future dialogues.

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Using “I statements” can make tough conversations easier. For example, instead of saying, “You never listen to me,” say, “I feel unheard when I can’t share my thoughts.” This approach fosters understanding and enhances communication. Also, open-ended questions like “How do you feel about…?” encourage youth to share their thoughts openly.

Let’s commit to the importance of meaningful dialogue in shaping healthier futures for Texas youth. Thank you for supporting our mission to make every conversation count.

upcoming events

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The 14th Annual Healthy Futures of Texas Symposium is a unique educational event uniting professionals across Texas. It provides in-depth training, technical support, and networking with experts in adolescent and women's sexual and reproductive health, equipping attendees with effective strategies for driving positive change. The Symposium will be offered in-person only from April 28-April 30, 2025 in Dallas, Texas, with one-day of virtual programming scheduled for May 1, 2025.

Deadline to Submit your presentation is now Friday, Nov. 8, 2024. For details, contact Melanie Chasteen at [email protected] or 512.791.5110.

[join our lineup of speakers]([link removed])

Make your voice heard in Dallas ISD's planning

If you're a Dallas resident, please complete this survey to help Dallas ISD prioritize the community's needs. Showing support for sexual health education can play a key role in promoting the well-being of our youth.

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Healthy Futures of Texas

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2300 W. Commerce St.,
Suite 212
San Antonio, TX 78207


[email protected] / 210.223.4589

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