Program Overview
The Youth Substance Prevention Team is a student-led initiative designed to equip young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and experience to make a positive impact in their school and community. Team members will take an active role in promoting substance use prevention and mental health awareness through education, social media campaigns, podcast production, magazine contributions, and community events. Students will gain hands-on experience in leadership, communication, and event planning while developing a deeper understanding of prevention strategies and public health. This program not only empowers students to influence their peers but also provides valuable preparation for future careers in health, education, and community service.
Projects
- School Prevention Campaigns
- Social Media Campaigns
- Prevention Podcast
- Prevention Magazine
- Community Education
Project Objectives
- Promote Substance Use Prevention
- Peer-to-Peer Education
- Build Student Leadership Skills
- Promote Community Involvement
- Career-Connected Learning
Timeline
February
Applications/Selection
March
Orientation/Induction/Leadership Day
April
Monthly Meetings Start
Applications/Selection
March
Orientation/Induction/Leadership Day
April
Monthly Meetings Start
June-August
Summer Activities
September-November
1 Training/Project per month
January
Final Training/Project
Summer Activities
September-November
1 Training/Project per month
January
Final Training/Project
Program Highlights
Prevention Messaging
Leadership Development
By the end of the school year, team members will create and deliver prevention-focused campaigns through social media, school announcements, events, or posters.
Each student will take on a leadership role to accomplish program objectives such as event planning, social media management, and podcast preparation to build communication and organizational skills.
Peer-to-Peer Education
Community Engagement
The team will produce original student-created content (podcasts, magazine articles, or social media posts), designed to encourage healthy decision-making among peers.
Students will represent the prevention team in at least 3 city prevention events, strengthening partnerships between the school and community.
Career-Connected Learning
Team members will participate in at least one professional development opportunity (workshop, training, or guest speaker session) related to prevention, public health, or mental health careers.