Our Mission
STEPS makes prevention a priority in our community through education, limiting access, and advocacy for policy change.
Our prevention work focuses on underage drinking, tobacco/vaping, cannabis/marijuana use, prescription drug misuse, and more. We believe that positive youth development is an essential building block to create generations of youth that are caring, competent, successful, and substance free.
Our Focus on Youth
STEPS was founded in 2007 with a mission to help our youth grow up to be caring, competent and successful. We develop programs and opportunities for young people to step up and showcase their best selves.
STEPS partners with Southington Public Schools to follow an Asset Building Classrooms (ABC) model. We also have STEPS Youth Council leadership opportunities, a youth community service initiative, and a classroom-based curriculum to improve student health and safety.
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Stay informed about our latest prevention efforts, news, and events.
Our Prevention Efforts
Our work in Southington to keep young people healthy and safe is a top priority. Data shows that substance use at a young age can lead to:
All these reasons are why substance use prevention among young people is so important. Take a moment to learn more about our work in Southington right now.
We are just a few weeks away from the 33rd Annual Red Ribbon Rally! Can you believe we've had this impactful event in our town for over three decades?!
If you are the leader of a Southington club or sports team, please register to participate here: forms.gle/ZdRi7WNJDgT4RKDV8 ... See MoreSee Less
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October is Substance Use Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of substance use and the importance of prevention efforts in our communities. Together, we can empower individuals, families, and organizations to make informed decisions, promote healthy behaviors, and build supportive environments.
Stay tuned for resources, tips, and strategies throughout the month to help strengthen prevention efforts and protect the well-being of our communities.
#SubstanceUsePreventionMonth #PreventionMatters #HealthyChoices #CommunitySupport #PreventionWorks ... See MoreSee Less
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The Southington Apple Harvest Festival is looking for volunteers (ages 15 & up)! 🍎 This year's event runs October 4-6 & 11-13. Learn more and get the volunteer application at: www.southington.org/ahf/volunteers.php ... See MoreSee Less
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STEPS was created 17 years ago after a series of teen suicides. Students who were worried about their friends approached trust adults who came together to create a safety net for our youth. The conversation they had around a picnic table in those early days continues now.
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. This “STEPS Snippet” shares facts about suicide prevention and what our Southington kids are telling us about how they feel.
If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, emotional distress, or just needs someone to talk to, CALL 988 or VISIT 988lifeline.org
You are not alone! ... See MoreSee Less
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Guess where we spotted our It’s Not Cheesy flyer?
At @fancybagels1 of course! We are so grateful for their partnership and everything they do in Southington! ... See MoreSee Less
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Wishing a happy retirement to our K9 friend, Tank! He and Sgt. Ayotte were always game for our ideas, like being part of our annual calendar. Enjoy all of the extra treats and cuddles coming your way! ... See MoreSee Less
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