PreventEd (Formerly NCADA)

PreventEd is the region's largest provider of school-based substance use prevention programming. Annually, we deliver evidence-based programs to approximately 60,000 students (K-12) in 260 area schools. PreventEd also extends prevention work beyond the classroom. PreventEd's youth leadership programs turn peer influence into a positive force by leveraging the powerful effect young people have on one another's attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

Our prevention education and youth leadership programs heighten awareness of the unique risks substance use poses to youth, correct dangerous myths and misinformation, encourage healthy choices and behaviors, develop leadership and resiliency skills, and counter false stereotypes of non-drug users as boring and "un-cool." Participants return to their schools and communities empowered to serve as credible sources of information and as role models for their peers.

Additionally, staff provide low- or no-cost virtual and in-person assessments, and trainings for community members on a variety of topics, including OEND (Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution) training for first responders, and other organizations. PreventEd is a certified Prevention Resource Center, and our Community Strategists provide support services to local community coalitions that deliver more localized grassroots solutions. These staff provide technical support and guidance with grant writing, education, strategic planning, seminars, and special events.