Turn On To Teens is an exciting, innovative program using computer communications to address the problems of troubled or "at risk" teens. TOTT is an all-volunteer program, with no paid staff and no governmental funding - all services are free to the community. Operating costs are met through business contributions, small grants and individual donations from the public. The biggest contributor is the founder who has a $25,000/yr. 40 hr/wk job and donates 50 hrs of volunteer labor a week as well as footing the bill for incidentals as they arise

Established in 1986 as a private, non-profit organization, TOTT provides a strictly supervised program for youths who are troubled, "at risk", or limited in their outside contacts due to living situation, handicaps, shyness or other difficulties. Participants use a computer bulletin board to exchange messages on serious subjects such as child abuse, substance abuse, victim impact and lighter subjects such as sports and jokes. A young girl with epilepsy may share how hurt she feels when people laugh at her; a victim may talk about how his/her family has been affected by crime; a teen mother may warn other girls about the difficulties of being a parent; a boy may write about his brush with death as a result of drug use; or a stutterer may gain self esteem as he communicates without being hindered by his handicap. One participant remarked, "The computer doesn't see what kind of clothes you wear or what color you are. ...it's easier to open up when you don't feel you have to cop an attitude to be accepted."

Individuals of all ages in the community and around the nation can be cleared into the system and can become part of an electronic community. In addition, carefully selected youth at Fresno County Juvenile Hall are able to participate under the supervision of trained TOTT volunteers.