Promoting health & reducing harm
Charlotte’s leader in substance use prevention and care
Our Mission
The Center for Prevention Services promotes health and resilience through progressive approaches that integrate evidence-based substance use prevention programming, harm reduction, and multifaceted systems of care.
"I felt like I wasn't alone."
In prevention work, we believe in meeting youth and families where they are. Our culturally-tailored, evidence-based prevention programs serve youth and families in a variety of settings including schools, community centers, and faith-based settings. No matter where you live, we’re here for you, building positive environments that promote resilience, reduce youth substance use, and foster long-term well-being.
— Familia Adelante youth particiant
What we do
Youth Prevention
Our evidence-based youth and family prevention programs, including Strong African American Families, Too Good For Drugs, and Familia Adelante, provide essential skills and support to prevent substance use and promote healthy living. These culturally tailored programs foster strong social and emotional skills, addressing factors leading to substance use and proactively supporting healthy development.
Harm Reduction
Our Queen City Harm Reduction (QCHR) program enhances the health and safety of our community by minimizing the negative health, social, and economic impacts of drug use. We provide free sterile equipment and Naloxone (Narcan) to people who use drugs. Our evidence-based Syringe Service Programs (SSPs) reduce infection rates and drug misuse and our comprehensive services empower individuals through education, connection, and access to resources.
Education & Advocacy
Promoting healthy communities involves educating the public about substance use and advocating for policies addressing its root causes. We provide specialized training and CEU opportunities for professionals in substance use prevention and harm reduction. Our advocacy targets local and state policies to create supportive environments and systems for effective substance use prevention and support.
Tracking Youth Substance Use
Since 1972, the Youth Drug Survey (YDS) has assessed youth use of, perceptions of, and attitudes toward tobacco, alcohol, prescription drugs, marijuana, and other substances. Because of its longitudinal nature, the data are able to show trends in youth substance use behaviors over time.
Enhance your skills, elevate impact: Expert training in substance use and harm reduction
Develop your professional skillset and receive continuing education units (CEUs) through the Center for Prevention Services training opportunities.
What our training participants are saying
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"I have greater tools to use to engage one of my most vulnerable clients in tobacco cessation."
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"After this training, I will encourage discussion [at my workplace] to reduce stigma and promote safety."
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"[In my workplace], I will raise awareness and add evidence-based programs to our outreach and education efforts."