Prevention is a proactive process, which focuses on skill building for individuals, families, institutions, and organizations, including specifically identified high-risk individuals and/or groups within the population.

This process is designed to promote the personal and social ability of the individual to act on behalf of self and others in ways that promote positive lifestyles.

Services are aimed to impact the general public and local school districts regarding such relevant issues as alcohol, drug and tobacco information, parenting skills, stress reduction techniques, building self-esteem, and life skills. These prevention services are provided by local staff who work in each of the five counties.

Specific programs include:

• K-12 alcohol and drug curriculum for schools
  
• Workshops/seminars for all ages
  
• Drug-free workplace seminars
  
• High-risk youth/early intervention
  
• Parenting classes targeted for parents of elementary and/or adolescent ages
  
• Resource and information networking
  
• Teen Living Skills classes & self-development groups
  
• Coordination with statewide organizations and initiatives
  
• Technical assistance to target population groups
  
• Adult DUI offender educational classes
  
• "Just Say No" programs at the elementary schools
  
• Project Teamwork peer groups at secondary schools
  
• Tobacco Education Classes
  
• Washington County Gang Task Force