SMART, Inc.- Southbury & Middlebury Acting Responsibly Together

SMART is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to creating safer and healthier individuals, families & communities by reducing substance misuse, promoting positive decisions, and supporting strong mental health wellness. SMART's goal is to EMPOWER...to offer opportunities to cultivate internal & external environments and experiences of strength, knowledge & wellness for youth, parents, and communities. We focus on building a culture of well-informed citizens across the developmental lifespan, who have the knowledge and awareness to create change at a fundamental level.

SMART continues to maintain the Local Prevention Council [LPC] for Region 15, collaborating with the State of CT's Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services [DMHAS], along with the Regional Behavioral Health Action Organization [RBHAO] for our area, Western CT Coalition. The LPC provides direct services to youth, invests in parent/ caregiver education, and builds resources within the schools and communities to create lasting & meaningful change. The LPC is comprised of key stakeholders & representatives from various groups, agencies, organizations, & community sectors [including parents, youth, local government, law enforcement, school admin, faith-based, persons in recovery, mental health providers, local business owners, etc.]

The LPC's primary goals are to:

• Identify relevant risk factors that Region 15 youth are facing

• Increase education around, and promote public awareness of, risks of substances in order to identify & help remove barriers to the healthy & successful development of our young people

• Create impactful standards that result in safe & educated communities & school environments

While SMART's primary focus is on the communities of Southbury & Middlebury, we have expanded our reach to neighboring towns, opening up opportunities for members of other local communities. Parent workshops focus on overall parenting support, trending social issues, risky youth behaviors, & family connection. We know that mental health concerns & increased risky behaviors have only escalated with the development and reliance on technology and social media. SMART collaborates with the Region as much as possible to help offer data to influence the schools impact, and continuously offers support to help ensure Region 15 youth thrive in all aspects of their lives. Our collaborations with other crucial & impactful community organizations support in developing connections & assist in creating environmental change that positively influences all citizens.

Overall, SMART strives to create relevant, community-wide learning opportunities to ensure all citizens have access to crucial resources and support, and remain educated and informed. Your support will allow us to strengthen our focus on bolstering prevention measures, improving capacity for early intervention, and providing timely strategies to support everyone & keep our communities safe. 

Who We Are

Our Mission
SMART is dedicated to strengthening the lives of individuals, families, and communities by making the towns healthier and safer for young people by preventing youth substance abuse and promoting positive decision making.