Prevention Services

One of the most proven and celebrated youth programs in the world, LST provides young people with the confidence and skills necessary to handle challenging situations. Students in 5th through 10th grade classrooms participate in 8 to 10 sessions exploring decision-making skills, communication, refusing negative peer pressure, the risks of prescription drug misuse, to provide guidance for making healthy choices and staying safe.

Created at Volunteers of America, Utah's Cornerstone Counseling Center, Living Skills has been cited by the U.S. Department of Education as one of the “20 Most Effective Programs” for youth. Children ages 6 to 11 are invited to attend small, weekly skills groups that cover topics such as: self-concept, cooperation, and expressing feelings in healthy ways. The program is provided as a pull-out group during the school day, in after-school programs, and at various community sites.

The Voices program helps adolescents build essential life skills and positive peer connections during a pivotal time of change and growth. Youth ages 10 to 17 are invited to attend small, weekly skills groups that cover topics such as: self-concept, managing difficult feelings, creating healthy friendships and refusing negative peer pressure. The program is provided as a pull-out group during the school day, in after-school programs, and at various community sites.

This Salt Lake School District program strengthens family management skills and improves communication between parents and their children (ages 11 to 14). The course consists of five 2-hour sessions held weekly at Horizonte Instruction and Training Center. Dinner provided. Also available in Spanish at Midvale Community Building. Questions? Contact denali.hale@voaut.org.

A substance use prevention program provided in partnership with the Salt Lake City School District. Students grades 7 through 12 and their parents/caregivers participate in four 2-hour classes exploring the risks of substances, the progression of addiction, and how to make personal changes. Enrollment is by referral.