Prevention
The Prevention Program equips youth, families, and the community with the knowledge and skills needed to make healthy, substance-free choices.
Through school-based education, outreach events, and evidence-based training, we work to empower individuals and build a stronger, more resilient community.
Why Prevention Education is Important
2023 La Crosse County Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) Reports:
22 percent of high school students stated that they had used marijuana at least once in their life (up from 18 percent in 2021)
25 percent of high school students reported having drank alcohol within the last 30 days prior to the survey (up from 19 percent in 2021)
9 percent of high school students used prescription pain drug without a doctor's permission
11 percent of high school students reported they binge drank within the last 30 days prior to the survey (up from 7 percent in 2021)
13 percent of high school students reported having used a vape or e-cigarette in the past 30 days (up from 12 percent in 2021)
8 percent of youth attended school under the influence of alcohol or drugs
La Crosse County Youth Risk Behavior Survey was completed by 3,410 high school students in La Crosse County, School Districts of: Bangor, Holmen, La Crosse, Onalaska, West Salem.
The YRBS also collects data related to mental health, suicidal thoughts, physical health, bullying, school safety, sex and dating violence, traffic safety and adversity. This data can be found here.
The unfortunate data increases show why it is so important to increase and continue any substance use prevention programs that can be done.
Too Good for Drugs
Too Good for Drugs (TGFD), developed by the Mendez Foundation, is an evidence-based prevention program for students kindergarten through 12th grade (ages 5–18). It helps youth develop the skills they need to make healthy choices and resist substance use.
Through engaging lessons and activities, students learn essential life skills such as goal setting, decision making, managing emotions, building positive relationships, and effective communication. Each age-appropriate curriculum strengthens protective factors that support wellness, confidence, and lifelong success.
For more information about bringing Too Good for Drugs to your school or organization, contact Coulee Recovery Center at (608) 784-4177.
Educational Presentations / Community Forums / Health Fairs
Educating individuals about substance use helps them to make informed decisions. The presentations help individuals understand substance use problems, triggers and other causes, coping tools and avoidance techniques, treatment options, and the recovery process.
Coulee Council actively participates in community forums, health fairs, and other events to educate the public about substance use, addiction, intervention and recovery issues, support groups, and related issues. The ultimate goal is to promote healthy lifestyle choices and minimize substance use.
For more information about presentations, call Coulee Recovery at (608)-784-4177