Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-Free Youth

27 Years of Prevention, Connection, and Community.

Every day, New Hampshire youth face choices that can shape the course of their future.

At Communities for Alcohol- and Drug-free Youth (CADY), we work alongside schools, families, and communities to help young people build resilience, make healthy choices, and thrive.

Substance misuse continues to impact communities across New Hampshire. Last year alone, more than 430 lives were lost to drug overdoses in our state. Prevention remains one of the most effective, compassionate, and cost-effective ways to address substance misuse before it begins.

Through collaboration, education, and youth engagement, CADY empowers young people to lead healthy, substance-free lives while strengthening the communities that support them.

Through support from donors like you, CADY is able to engage youth and families through programs such as:

• Youth Advocacy & Advisory Council (YAAC) - Since 2008, 172 students have served as CADY YAAC members, taking action to be part of the solution to issues relating to substance misuse.
• Prime For Life Diversion Program - Since its inception, 490 young adults have completed this evidence-based motivational prevention and intervention program to reduce high risk and other substance use.
• Community Education - The popular CADY Lunch-and-Learn series provides an opportunity for community partners to connect with peers on issues that impact youth, families, and community well-being.
• Annual CADY Prevention Summit - In its 24th year, the CADY Prevention Summit provides information and inspiration to all community sectors who serve as partners in prevention.
• Annual Shout Out to Parents - This annual event celebrates parents and kinship caregivers while providing an opportunity to learn about strength-based prevention strategies in an encouraging and supportive environment. To date, 523 parents and caregivers have attended at least one 'Shout Out' event.
• Substance-Free Family Fun Activities - The CADY YAAC continues to lead prevention programming to support healthy youth and adult relationships.  Activities have included ice skating, slime making, friendship bracelets, tie dye, and gymnastics.

CADY’s innovative work prevents and reduces substance misuse and promotes the vital relationships and connections youth need to thrive. The organization also provides the tools for local communities to prevent the high costs and harms of substance misuse and addiction.

We often say that “Prevention is Everyone's Business.” It is impossible to fulfill our mission and achieve our vision without the support of our community.   You inspire us to reach beyond expectations and we will continue to do so with your help. 

During NH Gives, your donation will help:

• Support youth leadership and prevention programs
• Expand education and outreach efforts
• Strengthen community partnerships
• Build healthier futures for New Hampshire youth and families

Thank you for considering a donation to CADY.
TOGETHER, we can create communities where young people are mentally strong, resilient, and substance-free.