How to Develop Alcohol & Drug Abuse Programs for Teenagers
The Office of National Drug Control Policy provides millions of dollars to anti-drug task forces and nonprofit agencies dedicated to stopping substance abuse. Linking your agency with schools, local police departments, county mental health and social services is key to winning federal grants for new and expanded programs and making those programs successful. It's also important to comply with all regulations from any county health departments and state health care or mental health offices.
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Things You'll Need
- Nonprofit designation for the agency
- Necessary permits
- Grant application materials
- Computer spreadsheet to organize survey input
Instructions
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Partnering with Community
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Solicit input from local teachers, parents, police officers, youth bureau employees and health and mental health workers and the young people themselves to identify the population of teens that are vulnerable to illegal drug use. and understand what education programs or services, like a recreation center, are needed in the community.
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Research grant opportunities from the Office of National Drug Control Policy or state departments or nonprofit agencies. Consider including someone with career grant-writing experience on your volunteer board of directors, to reduce the cost of hiring a grant writer. Review other potential revenue sources measures, including low- or no-interest loans or capital campaigns/fundraising events.
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Network with other nonprofit agencies that serve teenagers, including schools, to help with the new prevention education or associated recreation programs. If it's a detox or rehab center you're planning instead of prevention programs, ask schools, police departments and county health, mental health and social service departments to provide referrals for those who need treatment.
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Tips & Warnings
The effort can start informally with a group of parents dedicated to teen drug prevention, which does not require any money or permits from the state. If there's support at that level, then consider the start-up of a non-profit agency. For profit agencies are less likely to win grants fro drug prevention and treatment efforts.
