RELATE

Five teenagers smiling

Relationship Education: linking adolescents, transforming expectations

Over the past year, the Health Department and the Public Information and Communications team have been in the process of transitioning the WeldWAITS program to a new name RELATE (Relationship Education: linking adolescents, transforming expectations). While the program was originally designed with a focus on preventing teen pregnancy in 1998, it was rebranded in 2005 as WeldWAITS, and focused on delaying the onset of sexual activity. The program has continued to evolve over time into something much broader and more impactful — equipping adolescents with the tools they need to make healthy, informed decisions — not just about sex, but about relationships and their futures. This rebranding reflects the evolution of services and the continued commitment to provide high-quality support to schools, teachers, students, families, and the community. Although the name will be changing, the core values, dedication, and the valuable services relied upon for almost three decades will remain readily available. The new identity will better communicate the scope of work — linking adolescents and transforming expectations — emphasizing the importance of linking young people to others through healthy relationships and transforming their expectations, so they don't settle for anything less than the best in relationships, education, health, and life.

Meet the presenter

Heidi has proudly served as a Health Education Specialist with the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment since 2003. From the very beginning, she has been actively involved in developing, enhancing, and expanding prevention programming focused on delaying the onset of teen sexual activity and reducing other risky behaviors, including unhealthy friendships, dating violence, and bullying. Over the past two decades, Heidi has had the privilege of speaking to more than 15,000 students across schools and youth-serving organizations throughout Weld County. One of her greatest passions is ensuring every student she meets feels seen, heard, and valued while equipping them with practical tools to build healthy relationships, make informed decisions, and realize they deserve the best. Heidi earned her Bachelor of Science in Community Health from the University of Northern Colorado in 2004.

Testimonials

"I liked the slides and the interactive activities we did.  Good Job! I will be using this info in the future!" -Student, Eaton High School

"The presenter does a very good job on keeping the students engaged. She is always energetic and seems very passionate about her job!" -Student, Our Lady of Peace Youth Group

"Thank you again for coming out and presenting! You were amazing, and I think the kids actually learned! Some of those kids who were asking questions and participating have never done a thing in that class, so to see them engaged is awesome!" -School Staff Member, Local Weld County High School

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