Prevention Programs
We provide evidence-based differentiated programs for middle and high school students, 5th through 12th grade, as well as faculty and parent workshops. For more information, read below.
We have also introduced our programming in Israel. For more information see our Israel Programming page.
Not IF, But WHEN...
Our evidence-based prevention education programs go beyond just information. Tailored for students in grades 5-12, each presentation is designed to align with their stage of social and emotional development. They're led by Jewish individuals who bring their lived experiences with addiction to create personal connections that leave a lasting impression. We help students understand the real risks of substance use and how to make healthier choices.
Middle School
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Interactive discussion around decision-making and understanding healthy choices; exploring how to respond to stress and challenges; focus on mental health and wellness by developing resilience and coping skills
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​General introduction to the topic of substance use including understanding what is a “drug”, the basic science of addiction, the impact of substances on the brain, and exploring refusal skills through interactive role-playing scenarios​​
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Deeper dive into brain development, the science
of addiction and understanding the risks of substance use; facts around substances commonly encountered and their effects on brain/body; exploring healthy coping skills, protective factors in preventing addiction,
and knowing where to
turn for help
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In-depth exploration
of substance use and how
to help a friend or oneself; discussions around stressors including transition to high school, dealing with change and possible peer pressure, and exploring self-care; practicing refusal skills with interactive role-playing scenarios
High School
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Deeper dive into
the science of addiction
and brain development; the
facts and dangers around substances typically encountered
in high school; exploring common challenges for teens including transition to high school and peer pressure; discussions around the risks of use and employing healthy coping skills; recognizing when
someone needs help
and what to do
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In-depth discussion regarding substances and effects of use, and what to do in an emergency; hands-on activities with “fatal vision goggles” that mimic the physical effects of impairment of alcohol and marijuana use
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Understanding the
impact of process addictions
and the risk of developing a disorder; what to do in an emergency and how to help others; exploring practical tools for navigating peer pressure and making positive choices through interactive activities which encourage open dialogue
and discussion
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Focus on post-high
school changes; discussion
aboutincreased independence, lack of parental supervision and more availability of substances; in-depth exploration of ways in which to exercise refusal skills and harm reduction; dialogue around taking responsibility for choices and behaviors; understanding
how to help yourself or
someone else
Faculty and Parents
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In-person program
for faculty to understand
current drug trends among teenagers; how to recognize when
a child is struggling with substance use or mental health issues that might lead to substance use; utilizing skills and tools specific to school faculty and exploring information
and resources available to
support school staff; Narcan
kits are available to
participants
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In-person program
for parents to hear from
someone with lived experience; understand current drug trends;
how to recognize when a child is struggling with substance use or mental health issues that might lead to substance use; ways to discuss substance use with our children; the importance of modeling behaviors; understanding
current resources and
support available
"I strongly and unqualifiedly recommend the CCSA initiative to any school working on preventing substance use and misuse."
Dr. Jerry Zeitchik, Ramaz Upper School
"We continue to be awed by the incredible efforts of CCSA. The programs are constantly evolving and receive outstanding feedback."
Rabbi Jonathan Knapp, Yavneh Academy
"CCSA's presentations were engaging and impactful and their presenters were incredibly relatable. Their stories and the activities were particularly powerful."
Rabbi Moshe Adatto, SCY High School
"It is clear that this is a labor of love for you and your team and we are grateful for the passion and knowledge you infused into every portion of your presentations."
Dr. Etty Mizrahi, Yeshivah of Flatbush
"The entire CCSA program was one of the most impactful programs we have ever run in our school. Each of the speakers was well informed, articulate, relatable and empathic."
Ora Lee Kanner, Katz Yeshiva High
"I really appreciate the mission and investment you've made in making this conversation an important open, thoughtful, realistic and educational norm in our community."
CB Neugroschl, Ma'ayanot High School