Youth Programs
Student-Led Prevention
ECHO Coalition understands the importance of involving our teens in the effort to prevent substance abuse. By supporting student-led prevention the youth of Williams County have an opportunity to become involved in planning and implementing substance use prevention efforts in our schools and the community.
Our youth councils are learning leadership skills, prevention messaging and are serving as role models for their peers. These teens have committed to staying drug-free and are doing their part to empower younger kids to make healthy choices as well. Their bright minds and unique perspectives are key to helping us understand the risk factors and pressures that today’s youth are dealing with when it comes to substance abuse.
Ohio Youth-Led Prevention
Ohio Youth-Led Prevention or OYLPN is a network of youth-led substance misuse prevention providers and youth across the state who are committed to the cornerstones of youth-led prevention, peer prevention, positive youth development, and community service.
The network provides needed support for students, schools, and parent organizations, and can connect you with other like-minded groups in addition to providing resources, training, and more.
More information on OYLPN can be found at preventionactionalliance.org.
Youth Health Assessments
Williams County Youth Health Assessments Data and Trends
Recursos en Español
Youth Leadership Programs
November
World Kindness Day is a day that promotes the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world. The purpose of this day is to help everyone understand that kindness is what binds us all together. In November we take the time to share kindness and gratitude. Quitting vaping & smoking are not easy! YLP students believe you can do it! And we are here to provide resources to help you start.
December
Spreading the message of hope and positivity while encouraging positive mental health throughout the holiday season. Youth Leadership Council Retreat at 4-H Camp Palmer in Fayette, Ohio. A great time for Youth Lead Program members in High School to help strengthen the vision of the group, develop their leadership skills, and build strong, new friendships. RSVP November 15th.
January
A time to raise awareness about how to care for one’s mental health, to help reduce stigma, and provide information about mental health. And highlight the ways mental illness and addiction can affect all of us.
February
In February, YLP raise awareness about teen dating violence throughout Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This annual campaign, last all month-long to advocate and educate to help stop dating abuse before it starts.
March
Parent information evenings or activities provide opportunities for schools and community resources so parents can feel better informed to talk to their youth about underage alcohol and drug use.
National Drug and Alcohol Fact week is March 18th-24th.
April
A time to raise awareness and understanding of alcohol abuse Activities have included sicker shock or educating peers before prom season. A statewide celebration and gathering of youth dedicated to elevating the message around youth choosing to be substance free. The rally is held April 19th, 2024.
May
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, during this time YLP raise awareness about Mental Health and wellness.
National Prevention Week is a public education platform showcasing the work of communities and organizations across the country dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of substance misuse prevention and positive mental health.
#WeAreFree is a week used to educate and raise awareness about the dangers of substance misuse. Activities within the schools are student-led and vary to include banners signed by students pledging to remain substance-free throughout the summer.
June
This conference will be exciting, idea packed and full of creative new ways for youth and adults to work together in their communities. Participants leave with new skills and a deeper personal commitment to their positive decision-making and ability to create change within their own schools and communities.
Held the third week in June.
July
CADCA’s Mid-year Forum is the premiere training event for prevention professionals, youth, community leaders, advocates, and experts to convene, share insights, and collaborate on innovative strategies to drive lasting and impactful community change. Will be held in Chicago, IL July14th-18th
Youth Summits
*Prevention starts young! Youth Summit provides the opportunity to increase youths awareness of the harm of substance use on their academic, emotional, and physical development. Connecting them with community resources that are at their finger tips and build those protective factors. Usually planned twice a year.
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