Kentucky
20.4teen births per 1,000 females ages 15–19 in the CDC's 2023 state table.
An unmet relational ministry need
Young mothers deserve a place to belong.
Western Kentucky is rich in churches and compassionate organizations. Yet a specific gap can remain: the young mother who needs someone to share life with her, not merely a service to refer her to.
She can find herself between worlds.
A pregnant or parenting teenager may no longer feel she fits naturally in youth ministry. She may also feel much younger—and in a different season—than adults in a typical women's ministry or small group.
Childcare, transportation, exhaustion, shame, or fear of judgment can make belonging difficult.
YoungLives enters that space relationally.A mentor goes to her, builds trust, shares life, and creates the opportunity to share the hope we have in Jesus.
What defensible data tells us
The numbers show young mothers are here. They do not define their stories.
United States
13.1teen births per 1,000 females ages 15–19 in 2023.
McCracken County
29.8teen births per 1,000 females ages 15–19 during 2017–2019 in Kentucky KIDS COUNT.
The McCracken County figure is historical and labeled by reporting period. The data demonstrates presence, not helplessness or destiny.
The missing layer
Services matter. Relationships can change what feels possible.
Practical care
YoungLives can help a mother navigate helpful organizations while adding consistent friendship.
Church connection
A relational bridge helps a young mother experience Christians who know her and remain present.
Long-term presence
Mentorship walks through pregnancy, parenting, school, work, relationships, setbacks, and growth.
Our local vision
Paducah first. Western Kentucky as the ministry grows.
We are establishing an official ministry with the blessing and support of the existing Greater Paducah Young Life parent chapter and local leadership.
Now
Build mentors, committee, partnerships, prayer, and recurring support.
January 2027
Target the first YoungLives Paducah club.
Next
Grow faithfully and expand relational reach responsibly.