FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q.	How old do you have to be to attend a Silver Ring Thing?
A.	High School and Middle School students are invited to attend the Silver Ring Thing, as these are the years during which they are forced to make decisions about their sexuality.
Q.	How do you talk about sex without becoming graphic?
A.	At a SRT program, we are careful not to speak in "graphic" terms for three reasons, (a) the age differences in the room, (b) this is basically a parent's role, (c) this kind of information is better explained one-on-one and not in a group setting. We focus instead on the emotional, mental, and relational results of engaging in pre-marital sex.
Q.	Do you involve parents?
A.	We offer a special seminar and support groups for parents. Parents are also welcome to view any part of the program presentations. SRT staff is always available to answer parents' questions, or to address any special concerns. Parental support is vital to the success of the program.
Q.	What happens to students whose parents are not standing behind them?
A.	We recognize that not every student is fortunate enough to have a supportive parent who is involved in his or her life. For many kids the information they receive at an SRT program is the first really healthy and positive information they have ever received about their sexuality. For these kids, the SRT follow-up program, with one-on-one mentoring and peer group support offers an essential alternative to parental support.
Q.	What about kids who are already sexually active?
A.	We address this question in the Second Virginity message which speaks directly to the issues and problems that sexually active students have encountered. We recognize the fact that many students who attend the SRT are, or have been, sexually active and they need to know if it is possible to begin again. The answer is YES YOU CAN START OVER and, in fact, for this reason many students attend our program.
Q.	What happens after you sign the pledge? How do you deal with temptation?
A.	Once a person puts on the ring, the second phase of the Silver Ring Thing begins. It is a rare thing for a person not to be tempted, and we want SRT to be available whenever it is needed. The silver ring and the abstinence vow are a critical first step. Our ongoing support includes follow-up materials, peer-group activities, one-on-one mentoring, an accountability partner, SRT website, and e-mail or Instant Messenger access to SRT advisors.
Q.	Who runs the SRT program and who is behind it?
A.	The national office of SRT is in Sewickley, Pennsylvania where the Silver Ring Thing is part of the national outreach of the John Guest Team. Silver Ring South Carolina is an independent non-profit organization working in association with SRT national to bring the message of sexual abstinence to the youth of South Carolina.
Q.	What kinds of people are on the Silver Ring Thing Team?
A.	Silver Ring Thing program is presented by a high-energy group of talented young people who possess an exceptional ability to relate to middle and high school students. Specific training in communications, leadership, drama, presentation stills, and technical support is provided by experienced adult staff who constantly monitor the quality of the presentations and the message being conveyed.
Q.	What do you do to make the evening exciting and keep everyone interested?
A.	Humor and technology are the two main vehicles used for communicating the message. Humor is used to get everyone comfortable about being there and talking about sex. Humor is also used to make a point. Comedy skits explore the ways teens relate to each other and the careless way they make decisions about their lives and their sexuality. The kids may be laughing but they get the message that there has to be a better way. In addition, a vast array of technical equipment is used to present the program. The Speakers and actors are supported by special effects, lights, cameras, and videos. Teens are drawn to this "cool" club-like atmosphere which they associate with the types of activities they normally enjoy. Our goal is to attract their attention by using high-tech equipment, and maintain a high level of enjoyment while presenting the message of sexual abstinence and purity. The use of excellent and exciting technology helps us earn the right to be heard.
Q.	Does the SRT really work?
A.	Yes, it really works, but change doesn't come easily. The SRT program only succeeds where parents, schools, churches, youth leaders, and, of course, teenagers, commit to working together to change the future.
Q.	Where does all the high tech stuff come from, and how expensive is it?
A.	The SRT program is dependent for its success on its high-tech format and the equipment is expensive. Silver Ring South Carolina is currently using equipment provided by SRT National, and is in the process of raising funds toward the purchase of SRT event equipment for use in South Carolina. Gifts toward this purchase are tax deductible. Contact Silver Ring South Carolina for more details.