Each October, communities across the nation observe Substance Use Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of preventing substance misuse before it begins and to honor those who work every day to build healthier, drug-free communities.

Prevention Works, Inc. and the HOPE Chautauqua Coalition are proud to join this national observance by promoting education, early intervention, and positive community engagement throughout Chautauqua County. The organization emphasizes that prevention is most effective when families, schools, and communities work together to support healthy decision-making and resilience in youth.

“Substance use prevention starts long before a young person ever faces a decision about drugs or alcohol, it’s important to prevent early onset of use of alcohol and other drugs,” said Melanie Witkowski, Executive Director of Prevention Works, Inc. “By building protective factors like strong family communication, positive peer relationships, and supportive school environments, we can reduce the risk of substance misuse and promote long-term well-being.”

Throughout October, Prevention Works, Inc. will participate in a variety of community events and educational activities, including:

— Red Ribbon Week (Oct. 23 to 31): Encouraging students, families, and community members to show their commitment to living drug-free lives by wearing red, lighting up homes, schools, and municipal buildings in red.

— School-Based Prevention Programs: Providing evidence-based lessons that teach self-regulation, emotional awareness, and healthy coping skills.

— Community Outreach and Social Media Campaigns: Sharing prevention resources, facts, and stories of hope to inspire collective action.

Substance misuse continues to be a pressing public health issue across the country. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to addiction due to their developing brains. Brain development and maturation do not complete until the mid-20s. Early substance use can interfere with impairing memory, learning, and overall cognitive functioning, potentially leading to long-term deficits and increased mental health problems. Prevention programs, especially those focused on youth, are proven to reduce risk factors and increase protective behaviors, leading to healthier and safer communities.

There is good news to share. The HOPE Chautauqua Coalition recently conducted the Community Level Youth Development Evaluation (CLYDE) survey in the Spring of 2025, reaching 1,500 students across Chautauqua County in grades eight, 10, and 12. The anonymous survey results revealed a positive trend, showing a decline in alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana use between 2023 and 2025, along with an increased perception of harm associated with all substances. The expansion of Evidenced-Based Prevention Programming in schools, and the collaboration and partnerships across the county are making an impact.

Prevention Works, Inc. encourages all community members to take part in Substance Use Prevention Month by learning more about prevention strategies, talking with youth about the risks of substance use, and participating in local events that promote health and wellness.

For more information about local prevention efforts or to get involved, visit www.preventionworks.us or follow Prevention Works, Inc. on social media.

Prevention Works, Inc., is Chautauqua County’s only dedicated substance use prevention agency. The organization provides evidence-based education, training, and community initiatives designed to reduce risk factors, build protective factors, and promote healthy, drug-free lifestyles for youth and families.