The MATURE Plus Project and More Than Conquerors, Inc. will be holding its 15th annual mock wedding ceremony at the Rockdale Medical Center East Tower Classroom on Saturday, June 22, 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Each year, the MATURE (Marriage Appreciation Training Uplifting Relationship Education) Plus Project holds a mock wedding ceremony as part of their curriculum that aims to promote positive youth development. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including dating violence prevention, abstinence, STD awareness and budgeting.

According to More Than Conquerors, Inc. Director Viola January, the mock wedding ceremony will serve as a good model for students who have never attended a wedding. In addition to this, students will learn what a good relationship looks like and the importance of fatherhood. There will be a reception following the ceremony.

"The goal of the wedding is to show other teens that they do not have to give in to the pressure of society and media" said Ta-Tyonna Buck, a current PEERsuader. The PEERsuader program trains students to teach other students about healthy life choices. "We want to show that there is a better way to do things. Waiting until marriage to have sex and kids is still okay and I wanted to be a part of this event to help spread that message." These empowered youth from high schools in DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale, and Newton counties are part of the MATURE Plus Program of More Than Conquerors, Inc.

The teens not only assume the roles in the wedding, but also played a key role in the planning. Business sponsors of this event include David's Bridal in Lithonia, Savvi Formalwear at the Mall at Stonecrest, and Tiers by Lisa Reid in Lilburn.

For more information, email vjanuary@mtciga.org or call 404-298-0777. For more information on the MATURE Plus project, please visit their website at www.mtciga.org.