Prevention

The Improving Tomorrow: Prevention Focused Mentoring program is a grant funded program through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services

The Improving Tomorrow: Prevention Focused Mentoring program is a grant funded program through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services that Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa received surrounding substance abuse and problem gambling reduction and prevention using life-skills approaches to youth behavior change. Littles starting in 4th grade qualify for the program. Participation in this program is voluntary for Bigs and parents/guardians and is one year in length, with reenrollment options.

Participants in this program are asked to have conversations with their Little (child) about substance abuse, problem gambling prevention, and life skills from the tools and trainings provided. Participants will provide updates on usage of the materials and successes with their Little on connections related to life-skills and prevention to their Match Support Specialist on match support calls and with the program specialist.

Our ultimate goal is to bring knowledge, understanding and awareness so our youth will make wise decisions when faced with these possible pressures in the future. If you have any further questions about this program, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jada Alexander, Substance Abuse Prevention Mentoring Coordinator, at [email protected]