Prevention incorporates education/information activities and programs that are aimed at increasing knowledge and understanding about drugs, tobacco and alcohol and their effects on youth, family and community. Prevention activities are targeted at the total population with emphasis on reducing the possibility of alcohol, tobacco and substance abuse before it occurs.
The York/Adams Drug and Alcohol Program contracts out for Prevention Services through licensed prevention provider agencies located in the two county areas. A Prevention Program Specialist on staff at the Program Office (SCA) provides coordination of the contracted prevention services. The prevention specialist located in both counties meet with the providers once a month to review service plans and discuss areas of improved community relations. Prevention specialists provide services to schools, social service agencies and other community organizations in need of education and alternative prevention "Best Practices" strategies using a reporting system titled Performance Based Prevention System (PBPS) software program that evaluates the effects prevention is having on the communities serviced.
The prevention program at the SCA offers materials such as pamphlets, bookmarks and posters with drug and alcohol information listed. These materials are available free of charge to providers, social service organizations and educational programs in the York and Adams Counties area.