Teen Intervene
Teen Intervene is a FREE early intervention program tailored to youth with mild to moderate alcohol, vaping, nicotine or marijuana use. The program is delivered on-site within Calhoun County school districts.
Youth meet individually or in a small group setting with a SAC Specialist to discuss coping skills, goal setting, and behavior changes to reduce or eliminate substance use. The program is a 1-day, small group, classroom setting or an individualized session. Referrals to other programs may be made at the conclusion of the program if further support is needed.
Harm Reduction for Teens
Teen Intervene is based on the widely recognized Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model, this evidence-based program offers a full spectrum of tools to help address teen behaviors and decision-making related to substance use. Recommended for ages 12-19, Teen Intervene is designed to assist youth with an identified need to screen for substance use concerns.
The 2022-2023 academic year was the inaugural phase of Teen Intervene in Calhoun County. This special program was made possible by a grant from the Miller Foundation. We want to say a special "thank you" to the Foundation for making this harm reduction program readily available to our local youth.
An Interactive Classroom
A Teen Intervene class begins by introducing the program, focusing on educating participants about vaping, nicotine, and marijuana. Together, we explore these topics in an engaging and interactive manner, delving into questions about what these substances are, what they contain, and how they affect us. Following this, the class transitions to a discussion about personal experiences, aiming to discern the positive and negative aspects of using these substances and understanding the reasons why youth might opt for them.
Parents Are Prevention
Teen Intervene may involve parents to help teens make positive changes. It teaches parents ways to support their teens using research-based techniques. This includes building a good relationship with their teen, setting a healthy example regarding substance use, and showing a positive attitude.
Parent sessions last around 30-80 minutes and happen after the teen’s sessions. Parents play a big role in their child’s efforts, both positively or negatively. The parent part of the program aims to unite the family and the teen in achieving goals. Good communication is key, so we work on strategies to talk effectively. This opens up conversations about the teen’s triggers, needs for support, and how parents can help.
By The Numbers
2022-2023 Academic Year
Teens By School
146 students served from Battle Creek HS, W.K. Kellogg Prep, Lakeview HS, Pennfield MS, Harper Creek MS, and Springfield MS.
Ages Served
3 5-11 years old, 40 12-14 years old, 82 15-17 years old, and 7 18-20 years old.
Ethnicity
59 African American, 19 Mixed, 74 White, 3 Hispanic/Latino, and 1 Asian.