All In, Kids Win

Episode 30 of the All In, Kids Win podcast is a compilation of three interviews related to substance abuse and dependency. We hope the content serves to inform the public about the risks of prescription and illicit opiate abuse and to convey the message that help is available. Part 1: Ellis and Patty Fitzwalter; Founders of H.E.A.L. Stop HeroinH.E.A.L. Stop Heroin is a local grassroots organization dedicated to spreading awareness about the opiate epidemic. Since the Fitzwalter's son’s death in 2014 from an accidental heroin overdose, it has been their mission to share their story with the community to raise awareness and educate others about the the dangers of opiates. Visit https://healstopheroin.org/ or www.facebook.com/healstopheroin to learn more. Part 2: John Buck, Alternative Treatment Court Administrator for St. Louis County Circuit CourtJohn Buck provides an overview of the Alternative Treatment Court here at St. Louis County Circuit Court. Part 3: Honorable Michael BurtonJudge Michael Burton shares insights and his perspective from the bench as the Judge of the Alternative Treatment Court.

Interview with Darryl Munden, PresidentThe Rx Outreach Team is located at our pharmacy in St. Louis, Missouri. Our team of licensed pharmacists and Patient Care Advocates are tied together by a shared passion for our mission and the patients we serve. At Rx Outreach, we believe that everyone deserves access to affordable medications. No one should ever have to choose between filling a prescription and feeding their family. That’s why Rx Outreach exists. Since 2010, we have saved our patients more than $631 million in prescription medication costs. 3171 Riverport Tech Center DriveMaryland Heights, MO 63043www.rxoutreach.org1-888-RXO-1234 (1-888-796-1234)

Interview with Frank Bell, Executive DirectorBuilding long-term, life-changing relationships with urban youth, equipping them to thrive and contribute to their community.Elevate’s unique, relationship-based approach employs full-time staff who represent the community they serve. Part teacher, part mentor, part life coach, our dedicated team members make themselves available 24/7 to build relationships with students. The strength of these relationships is developed through four key program components: Accredited Classes, Mentoring, Adventure and College Career Elevate St Louis6614 Clayton Road #303Richmond Heights, MO 63117Phone: 314-913-4136 elevatestlouis.org

Interview by Marlon ChambersInterview with Aaron Harris, ED & Dwayne James, Chairman The Ferguson Youth Initiative (FYI) is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization serving the youth of the Ferguson community. FYI empowers teens from Ferguson and surrounding communities to become productive, positive, & contributing members of the community. Contact info if you have any questions or want additional information. 106 Church StreetFerguson, MO 63135314-749-5379

Interview with Jason Beard, MS - Regional Director of East/Central RegionMain Number: (800)888-1904 Unlike other social service agencies, PCHAS combines data-driven program design and expertly trained staff with a philosophy of care that keeps everyone—from social workers to executive leaders—focused on the goals and strengths of each child and their family. Studies show that young people with mentors are 52% less likely to skip school and 32% less likely to act out violently. Families and school counselors may refer children ages 5-19 to this program. Therapeutic mentors, who are paid, have a degree in a social science or education. They meet with each child and his/her family to set goals and reach those goals. Mentors meet with the children at home, school or in the community at least once a week for up to a year. The program is free to any at-risk child in the areas served.  

Interview with Christina Helm, MA, LPC - Case Therapist SupervisorMain Number: (800)888-1904 Unlike other social service agencies, PCHAS combines data-driven program design and expertly trained staff with a philosophy of care that keeps everyone—from social workers to executive leaders—focused on the goals and strengths of each child and their family. We help:•Families in need of emotional support•Single parents who feel overwhelmed•Grandparents raising grandchildren•Families struggling with a child’s difficult behavior•Parents who are at the end of their rope and not sure where to turn•Our masters-level and state-licensed specialists have served more than 10,000 families over the past ten years. Their proven approach, as well as their compassion and patience, has saved many families from breaking apart. First, specialists make sure the children are safe. Then they help families create goals to work toward and support them when they need it, for as long as they need it. This may include:•Identifying a family’s strengths and areas where they can grow•Building up parenting skills•Individual and family counseling•Working on daily routines and healthy relationships•Assisting a family member with temporary out-of-home placement if needed

Dred Scott Heritage FoundationInterview with Lynne M. Jackson, President and Founder and Great-great granddaughter of Dred and Harriet Scott. The Dred Scott Heritage Foundation's mission is to educate the public of the critical impact of the Dred Scott Decision and the struggle for freedom of Dred and Harriet Scott through commemoration, education and reconciliation. To learn more about the foundation or the history of Dred and Harriet Scott, visit:www.dredscottlives.org www.thedredscottfoundation.org

Episode 23 - MarygroveRose Crofford, Chief Operating OfficerKelly Peplinski, Director of Intensive NeedsMike Baer, Director of Transitional and Independent Living 2705 Mullanphy LaneFlorissant, MO 63031 (314)837-1702www.marygrovechildren.org Marygrove has a rich history of more than 165 years caring for children, teens and young adults, offering a safe and healing environment for its residents. The children and adolescents who are placed at Marygrove have often been through multiple, failed placements in other residential facilities or foster homes. Many come from abusive, violent and severely disruptive family situations; some come from failed adoptions; and, in a few instances, children are discharged from psychiatric hospitals directly to Marygrove. Most of the residents are diagnosed with behavioral and psychiatric disorders as a result of abuse and neglect. Without Marygrove’s services, these children and adolescents would face a future living in a much more restrictive environment. The children and young Marygrove Arial revised adults at Marygrove live and grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, and they have an opportunity to heal in a stable, family-like setting. Professional caregivers provide structure while therapists provide an individualized treatment program and counseling to help each child overcome personal obstacles and establish responsible, attainable goals for the short and long-term future. Marygrove is one of the largest therapeutic residential treatment programs in Missouri and is a new beginning for the 200 children and young adults served each day. Many arrive at Marygrove’s doors with immediate needs that include clean clothes, food and medical treatment. They receive all these things in addition to a safe haven and the nurturing and care of round-the-clock staff and therapeutic treatment from licensed, Masters-level therapists. Today, through its broad spectrum of residential and community-based programming, including therapeutic residential treatment and foster care, transitional and independent living programs, crisis care, education and recreational therapy, family counseling, parenting education and mentoring Marygrove enriches the lives of over 1,000 young people each year. As part of the Archdiocese of St. Louis we participate in the Annual Catholic Appeal.

Court Appointed Special AdvocatesInterview with Steve Moergen, Executive Director105 S. Central AvenueClayton, MO 63105(314)615-2912www.voices-stl.org Since 1984, CASA Volunteers have been advocating for St. Louis' children and youth. As the only Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA Volunteer) member program in St. Louis City and County, our CASA volunteers offer a stable voice on behalf of the regions 1,700 children and youth in foster care. The National CASA Association is a membership organization that supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy programs like Voices for Children so every abused or neglected child in the United States can be safe, have a permanent home and the opportunity to thrive.

Interview with Jessica Woolbright, Children's Program CoordinatorP.O. Box 4950St. Louis, MO 63108(314)533-1313 (Available 24/7)www.saintmarthas.org St. Martha’s Hall is a not-for-profit agency, which provides a shelter care program for abused women and their children. Our mission is to help battered women and their children break the cycle of violence in their lives. In an attempt to accomplish this, we:•offer an immediate, confidential safe place for abused women and their children to live;•provide a supportive environment with a strong emphasis on peer support;•implement a self-help philosophy to enhance self-esteem and decision-making skills;•staff 24- hour crisis line;•provide accurate information and referrals to abused women and their children and when appropriate to their abusers;•provide advocacy services;•provide individual crisis, group and family counseling;•provide follow up support and•offer community education to increase public awareness and understanding of domestic violence. Strong emphasis is placed on peer support. Support groups with women in similar situations, facilitated by staff, encourage women to be aware of the dynamics of woman battering and their own worth, goals, options, and skills for being independent. The program tries to ensure community effort, cooperation, independence and support of the women and their children that reside here. The staff, volunteers, and Board of Directors of St. Martha’s Hall are dedicated to empowering women to live violence-free lives.

Monica Andrews, Program ManagerBaker Symes, Adolescent TherapistRob Cracchiola, Program Coordinator/Therapisthttps://centerpointehospital.net763 S. Ballas Road Suite 130St. Louis, MO 63141Adolescent Line: (314)292-7373Adult Line: (314)7323 CenterPointe’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), in the St. Louis area, provides half-day or evening programming during which many patients can continue with daily responsibilities. Patients in this level of care have substantial family and environmental support in working toward continuing improvement and successful management of their disorders. CenterPointe offers intensive outpatient programs for adults and adolescents.

Interview with Meghan Carter, State Executive Director, and Meagan Bowers, Program Specialistwww.madd.orgOffice: (314)426-1595National Help Line: (877)MADD-HELP (877)275-6233 The mission of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes, and prevent underage drinking.

Interview with Kate Dopuch, Chief Program Officerwww.bbbsemo.org(314)361-5900 PurposeTo ensure that children grow up with love, hope, and opportunity. How We ServeOur work is straightforward and dynamic. Our approach is unique in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America federation of over 300 affiliates. Today, our agency supports each young person, ages 5-25. What We DoOur day-to-day work is ever-changing but our commitment to helping young people build a better future is always consistent. We follow the best practices of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. We also support an active innovation laboratory partnering with local and national researchers and organizations to study and develop new models of mentoring and value-added support services.

Kids In The MiddleInterview with Katy Walter, Chief Program Officer www.kidsinthemiddle.orgInstagram: @kidsinthemiddle_stl(314)909-9922 (ask to speak to a clinical coordinator) MissionKids In The Middle empowers children, parents and families during and after divorce through counseling, education and support. PromiseKIds In The Middle promises healthier futures for children of divorced families. Kids In The Middle opened its doors in 1977, providing group counseling for children whose parents were separated, divorced or remarried. Since that time, our services have expanded to serving the whole family, including parents. Kids In The Middle has an unparalleled base of knowledge and relevant experience offering the most comprehensive, expert counseling in the field. Kids In The Middle has a passion for helping children. Kids In The Middle knows that children of divorce adjust much better when they are able to share their feelings with other children. Kids In The Middle also know that children cope more effectively when their parents are involved. By working with parents, Kids In The Middle helps them settle themselves emotionally and learn how to help their children. Most importantly, Kids In The Middle help parents reduce conflict, communicate and co-parent to provide their kids with safe, loving homes. Parents need not have been married to utilize our services. Families come to Kids In The Middle not only during the divorce process. They also find the services helpful even after many years have passed. Kids In The Middle provides a safe, confidential and objective place for children and parents to work through family transition issues.

Interview with Emily Koenig, Executive Director www.keepingkidsfirst.orgBehavioral Health Response (BHR) Hotline Numbers(314)628-2929, orText 4HLP to 31658 Starting in 2005 and continuing over the next couple of years, many communities across Missouri experienced reduced funding in mental health and substance use treatment services for children and youth due to budget cuts at the state and federal level. Recognizing the needs of children and families in St. Louis County, a coalition of committed local nonprofit agencies and community supporters decided to address the growing problem. An independent needs assessment was commissioned which provided the data St. Louis County voters needed to support the initiative. Using Missouri State Statutes RSMo 67.1775 and 210.861, which allowed local communities to create a community children’s service fund for ten specific behavioral health service areas through a referendum, the St. Louis County Putting Kids First Campaign was launched in 2008. Putting Kids First, also known as Proposition 1, passed on November 4, 2008 with a resounding 62% of St. Louis County voters’ approval. Today, St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund (CSF) is the largest children’s service fund in the state of Missouri, generating approximately $42 million annually through a quarter cent sales tax. Since the first allocation in 2010, CSF has invested over $300 million in local nonprofits and governmental agencies to provide behavioral health services for children and youth in the county. Through collaboration and partnership, CSF ensures children and youth have the support and resources they need to achieve their potential. The Children's Service Fund's Mission:To improve the lives of children, youth, and families in St. Louis County by strategically investing in the creation and maintenance of an integrated system of care that delivers effective and quality mental health and substance abuse services.

The St. Louis County Circuit Court has recognized the value and need for positive role model interaction with adolescents who are under the Court’s supervision. By becoming a Mentor, you can help a young person make a successful transition into adulthood. A Mentor is an adult, (21 years of age or older) who is willing to listen, give support, and spend quality time with a youth age 12-16 on a consistent basis. Through demonstration, instruction, and encouragement, a Mentor works with the youth to develop their self-esteem, positive attitudes, and socially appropriate behaviors. Interview with Marlon Chambers (Mentor Program Specialist), Rod Scott (Mentor) and "Martin" (Mentee). To volunteer, or for more information about the Court's Mentor Program, call (314)615-4400.Visit our website for more information: www.stlcountycourts.com

Samantha Stangl, Programs Managersamantha@clark-fox.comwww.clarkfoxstl.comwww.blueprintforsummer.com Founded in 2004, the Clark-Fox Family Foundation supports the growth and prosperity of the St. Louis metropolitan region through research, program development and investments in PK-12, higher education, public health, immigration, social justice and racial equity, community leadership, and entrepreneurship. The Foundation prioritizes programs and investments that empower the end user and leverage each other for broader access and greater impact for our children and community.

LISTENER DISCRETION ADVISED due to language regarding reproductive body part identification and discussions about trauma and abuse. Linda McQuary, MSW, Assistant Director•University of Missouri-St. Louis, South Campus 314-516-6798 (GPS Coordinates: 38.7038498,-90.3079441)•Kirkwood 314-516-8300•West Pine 314-516-4088 Giving Children Voices. Helping Families Heal. Children’s Advocacy Services of Greater St. Louis (CASGSL) is a University-based, multidisciplinary center that provides high-quality trauma-focused services to youth, families, and the community. CASGSL promotes resiliency, physical safety, and emotional stability through comprehensive research, forensic, clinical, educational, and advocacy programming. CASGSL serves children impacted by all types of traumatic events including childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, and neglect. CASGSL also serves witnesses of domestic abuse and violent crime and children who have suffered accidents, natural disasters, and traumatic bereavement. CASGSL also have therapies for children with sexual behavior issues and who are difficult to manage at home and school. CASGSL provides child-sensitive forensic interviews and individual, family and group counseling.

Goodwill strives to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by helping people reach their full potential through education, skills training and the power of work. Esther Williams, Assistant Vice President, discusses adolescent programming and Mark Arens, Executive Vice President, discusses programs available to adults. MERS Goodwillwww.mersgoodwill.org1727 Locust StreetSt. Louis, MO 63103Main: (314)241-3464

St. Vincent Home for Children helps youth facing significant life challenges through love, security and therapeutic supports that enable them to improve their lives and the community. St. Vincent provides trauma groups, psycho-education, art therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and residential care services. Call St. Vincent Home for Children at (314)261-6011Visit their website at: www.saintvincenthome.orgDrop in or mail to: 7401 Florissant Road, St. Louis, MO 63121

St. Louis County Juvenile Detention CenterCheryl Campbell, DirectorKellie Landaker, Assistant Director www.stlcountycourts.com(314)615-4400 Hear about what it’s like inside the St. Louis County Juvenile Detention Center. The Detention Center provides for the safe and secure custody of juveniles alleged to have committed an offense that brings them within the jurisdiction of the Court. These juveniles are detained only if it is believed that they present a threat to themselves or the community. They remain in detention until the Court hears their case or until appropriate alternative arrangements can be made. The Detention Center provides for the basic needs of its residents: shelter, food, clothing and medical care. But just as importantly, the Center’s staff provides a wide range of support services intended to help promote the juvenile’s physical, social and emotional development. These services include drug and alcohol counseling, arts and crafts, mental health screening and counseling, self-help programs, educational and vocational services, fitness sessions, voluntary religious services, recreational programs and many other activities. The Department of Health of St. Louis County provides a registered nurse, a nurse practitioner and visiting physician. The Center’s medical program is accredited through the National Commission on Correctional Health. The Episcopal City Mission provides Chaplains for the Center who, with volunteer staff, offer counseling, grief groups, enrichment programs and voluntary religious services to residents. The Court’s Family and Clinical Services Department has a staff member housed in detention five days a week and contracts for services on evenings and weekends to provide coverage seven days a week and late evening hours five days a week.

Captain Guy Means, Commander, 1st PrecinctSt. Louis County Police Department www.stlouiscountypolice.com Captain Guy Means talks about his experience with the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative and how the he and his Precinct are partnering with the St. Louis County Court. Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative Begun two decades ago as a pilot project to reduce reliance on local confinement of court-involved youth, the JDAI change model is now operating in nearly 300 counties nationwide, dramatically reducing detention facility populations. Detention is a crucial early phase in the juvenile court process. Placement into a locked detention center pending court significantly increases the odds that youth will be found delinquent and committed to corrections facilities and can seriously damage their prospects for future success.Yet many detained youth pose little or no threat to public safety. When the Foundation launched JDAI as a pilot project in the early 1990s, overreliance on detention was widespread and growing nationwide. Using a model rooted in eight core strategies, JDAI proved effective in helping participating jurisdictions safely reduce their detention populations. Based on its success, JDAI has been adopted by an ever-growing number of jurisdictions, leading to dramatic declines in detention populations.

Metropolitan Congregations United (MCU)Margaret Davis, Juvenile Justice Chair www.mcustlouis.org(314)651-7574 Metropolitan Congregations United is a community organization that brings together religious congregations, community groups, and individuals to work for a common purpose: to create a better life for all residents. The Ferguson experience continues to crystallize for us the center of our work: the intersection of race, economy, political power, gender and the structures of oppression at work within us individually, within our organizations and within the community of the St. Louis region. MCU strives to be an organization which is the platform for faithful confrontation of the powers, conversion of systems and individuals, and expression of true community of shared self-interest. Each person’s inherent dignity is celebrated by their shared investment in building community, toward a more just and equitable region. As an affiliate of the Gamaliel Network, we have joined our partners around the country to work towards four structural shifts.1. Build people’s control of government2. Build community control of the economy3. Expand the public sphere (for example, public transportation)4. Create structural racial equity

Father Support CenterHalbert Sullivan, MSW, Founder, President and CEO www.fatherssupportcenter.org(314)333-4170 Prince Hall Family Support Center4411 N. Newstead, St. Louis, MO 63115 Founded in 1997, Fathers’ Support Center is dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by encouraging committed and responsible parents. For 20 years, Fathers’ Support Center has served 15,000 fathers and their families — this includes almost 40,000 children. FSC has experienced continued success with its nationally-recognized partnerships. Fathers’ Support Center’s rigorous, full-immersion Family Formation Program boasts a 92% job retention rate for its clients. Of the 270 fathers enrolled throughout 2017, 76% report improved or developed healthy relationships with their children. The men who completed the program in the past year are paying a combined $230,000 annually to directly support their children. In 2017, on a $3.9 million budget in program expenses, FSC’s return on investment to the St. Louis community totaled more than $14.4 million. That’s just an initial return, and as parents, families, and communities grow stronger, the positive effect continues to multiply.

Marcia Hazelhorst, MJJA Executive Director and JDAI State Coordinator www.mjja.orgwww.jdaiconnect.org Missouri Juvenile Justice AssociationMJJA envisions a preferred future in which the public is aware and supportive of the delivery of quality juvenile justice services to the children of Missouri. Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative Begun two decades ago as a pilot project to reduce reliance on local confinement of court-involved youth, the JDAI change model is now operating in nearly 300 counties nationwide, dramatically reducing detention facility populations. Detention is a crucial early phase in the juvenile court process. Placement into a locked detention center pending court significantly increases the odds that youth will be found delinquent and committed to corrections facilities and can seriously damage their prospects for future success. Yet many detained youth pose little or no threat to public safety. When the Foundation launched JDAI as a pilot project in the early 1990s, overreliance on detention was widespread and growing nationwide. Using a model rooted in eight core strategies, JDAI proved effective in helping participating jurisdictions safely reduce their detention populations. Based on its success, JDAI has been adopted by an ever-growing number of jurisdictions, leading to dramatic declines in detention populations.

The SpotKelly Righton, LCSW, Director of Prevention www.thespot.wustl.edu(314)535-04134169 Laclede Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63108 MissionVision, Philosophy, and Guiding Principles: Youth partnering with community for social justice and health represents the vision for The SPOT. True to this vision, The SPOT welcomes ALL youth (13-24) and responds to their particular needs through a comprehensive model of health and social services. At the SPOT youth can1. access health and prevention services;2. strive for positive educational and vocational outcomes;3. have a voice and influence in their communities through leadership opportunities. Our philosophy requires that the SPOT be structured around the following guiding principles:1. remove barriers that currently impede youth from seeking or obtaining health and prevention services;2. create a center separate from a child or adult clinic environment that is youth-specific;3. combine needed health and social services into a single setting;4. engage youth in all aspects of the program development and allow opportunities for their leadership to be fostered;5. successfully link youth into the existing healthcare system by addressing and eliminating specific barriers.

Man of Valor, Inc.Bishop Luther Baker www.manofvalorinc.org(314)290-4103 To provide men and their families with the necessary resources and tools that can empower them to impact their communities and transform their lives. The more we can create positive and healthy relationships in the family. The stronger the family and community will be. The strength of the community is in the family and the strength of the family is within the father. Some things you cannot do in your own strength. There are appointed people and resources for one’s future. There are men, families, and communities that feel stuck. Being stuck can only bring frustration, that tries to wreck the plans of one’s destiny. The frustration won’t change by wishing and no strategy. It takes planning and strategy to move families and communities forward and to bring about change. True change can only come through a renewed mind and a total change of heart. For out of the heart of a man flows the issues of life.

Gail D. Mumford, Juvenile Justice Strategy Senior AssociateAnnie E. Casey Foundation www.aecf.orgTwitter: @aecfNewsFacebook: @AnnieECaseyFndnInstagram: annieecaseyfdnLinkedIn: annie-e.casey-foundation The Annie E. Casey Foundation is devoted to developing a brighter future for millions of children at risk of poor educational, economic, social and health outcomes. Our work focuses on strengthening families, building stronger communities and ensuring access to opportunity, because children need all three to succeed. We advance research and solutions to overcome the barriers to success, help communities demonstrate what works and influence decision makers to invest in strategies based on solid evidence. As a private philanthropy based in Baltimore and working across the country, we make grants that help federal agencies, states, counties, cities and neighborhoods create more innovative, cost-effective responses to the issues that negatively affect children: poverty, unnecessary disconnection from family and communities with limited access to opportunity. Since 1948, these efforts have translated into more informed policies and practices and yielded positive results for larger numbers of kids and families. Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative Begun two decades ago as a pilot project to reduce reliance on local confinement of court-involved youth, the JDAI change model is now operating in nearly 300 counties nationwide, dramatically reducing detention facility populations. Detention is a crucial early phase in the juvenile court process. Placement into a locked detention center pending court significantly increases the odds that youth will be found delinquent and committed to corrections facilities and can seriously damage their prospects for future success.Yet many detained youth pose little or no threat to public safety. When the Foundation launched JDAI as a pilot project in the early 1990s, overreliance on detention was widespread and growing nationwide. Using a model rooted in eight core strategies, JDAI proved effective in helping participating jurisdictions safely reduce their detention populations. Based on its success, JDAI has been adopted by an ever-growing number of jurisdictions, leading to dramatic declines in detention populations.

Safe ConnectionsZenique Gardner-Perry, Prevention Education ManagerHeidi Harbin, Adolescent Clinical Manager 24-Hour Crisis Helpline(314)531-2003 Main Office Number(314)646-7500 2165 Hampton AvenueSt. Louis, MO 63139 www.safeconnections.org Dani Smith, Events and Communications Managerdani@safeconnections.orgExt. 123 Our Mission The mission of Safe Connections is to reduce the impact and incidence of relationship violence and sexual assault through education, crisis intervention, counseling and support services. Agency Overview Safe Connections is proud to be one of the St. Louis region’s oldest and largest organizations working to prevent and end domestic and sexual violence while helping survivors reclaim their lives. Our services in prevention education, crisis intervention and counseling make a big difference for families and the health of our community. Safe Connections has grown steadily since our inception in 1976 when we began as grassroots domestic violence crisis hotline. It quickly became clear that counseling services for victims of abuse were needed, so our first mental health therapists were hired. In 1988, responding to research and our own recognition that breaking the cycle of violence must include reaching youth, we developed and introduced Project HART (Healthy Alternatives for Relationships among Teens), a violence prevention curriculum, in schools across the metropolitan area. Safe Connections is the only domestic violence/sexual assault counseling and prevention agency in St. Louis to be accredited by the Council on Accreditation, due to our best practice standards covering governance, human resources, financial management and program services. We are also a member of the Better Business Bureaus Wise Giving Alliance and maintain a top rating with the United Way of Greater St. Louis.

NCADANicole Browning, Clinical Director www.ncada-stl.org (314)962-3456info@mcada-stl.org 9355 Olive BoulevardSt. Louis, MO 63132 NCADA works to reduce or prevent the harms of alcohol and other drug use through education, intervention and advocacy. In all matters related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse, the NCADA has been the place to turn since 1965. Substance use disorder is the leading contributor to death and injury among young people. This is unacceptable. Teenagers and young adults—with their lives full of promise and untapped potential—are too often struck down from a condition which is not only treatable, but preventable. So one of the NCADA’s major goals is to teach young people the skills needed to resist the pressures to use and abuse drugs. We offer proven, evidence- and best-practices-based curricula for every grade from K-12 in nearly 300 schools in the region. Additionally, we offer youth leadership programs and a wide range of non-school-based prevention services. In a normal year the NCADA offers prevention and education services to over 100,000 people. NCADA is a proud member of the United Way, meets the 20 Better Business Bureau standards for charity accountability and was a 2013 recipient of the BBB TORCH Award for exceptional customer service and ethical business practices.