The Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention (ADAP) Teen Coalition
Santa Barbara, CA

The Alcohol & Drug Abuse Prevention Teen Coalition, known as ADAP, is a group of teens from local high schools who work together to address the problem of substance abuse among underage youth. ADAP members recognize the dangers of substance abuse and have a strong desire to make a positive impact on their peers.

The approach used by ADAP to combat drug abuse & addiction is called Environmental Prevention. It addresses the settings in which substance abuse takes place: our community. Over time a successful campaign will decrease drug abuse and addiction; for example, by making alcohol and drugs less accessible to underage youth.

ADAP's current focus is the Social Host Ordinance. Click here for complete information on our campaign.

Environmental Prevention Does:
Focus on the community
Look at how the environment effects individuals' decisions
Look at broader solutions to alcohol & other drugs like public policy
Examine the cultural, political and economic dynamics that lead to alcohol & drug (ab)use.

Environmental Prevention Does Not:
Focus on the individual
Work directly with addiction and/or recovery
Advocate for prohibition
Blame youth for underage drinking

ADAP members receive training in leadership development, public speaking, event planning, working with the media and public policy. Teens who are interested in being part of ADAP can earn community service hours and incentives for their time & efforts. Meetings are held weekly after school at Twelve35 Teen Center, located at 1235 Chapala Street.

Download your ADAP Application here.

What they are saying about the ADAP Teen Coalition:

"The Youth Speak Outs we have provide a place for teens to address topics that are important to us" - Art, 4 yr. member of ADAP

"It's a win-win situation; ADAP teaches students teamwork, leadership and how to make positive choices. The community service credit is great too!" - Mr. D, High School Teacher

"If you could design your own community - how would it look? ADAP demonstrates how teens, working with authority figures, can improve their community. My son has learned so much from his ADAP experience" - Renee, Parent of ADAP member

"ADAP members are part of the solution, not the problem!" - Christina, ADAP member

As these prevention efforts continue, the Coalition will need the support of the community to make positive changes that improve the quality of life for everyone in Santa Barbara.

If you would like to support the Coalition in other ways, or if you would like more information, please call the ADAP Teen Coalition Office at (805) 897-2547.

Click here for facts about drug & alcohol use among California school youth grades 7-11.

This program is made possible through Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Grant through the County of Santa Barbara Alcohol and Drug Programs.