
Prevention of substance use and gambling disorders is NOT simply about telling kids not to do these things. Effective prevention starts with identifying what children and youth in the community need, and then meeting that need with research-backed strategies. Risk & Protective Factors: The Foundation for Effective Prevention Risk factors are those things that increase…

An old-fashioned balance scale serves as a good metaphor for how we do addiction prevention. When our prevention specialists are out in the community, we’re asked some predictable questions about our work. Q: Are most kids using opioids? A: Definitely not. In both Lebanon & Lancaster Counties, less than 1% of kids have ever tried…

The Advocacy Team at Compass Mark created a packet containing three lessons with corresponding worksheets for students and families to enjoy at home. The lessons taught on personal strengths, time management, and goal setting. Even the cover page offered a chance to color and cut out your own bookmark! The packets were printed and dispersed…

A few months ago, a 17-year-old high school senior and her nine-year-old brother came home from their Lancaster County school and their mom wasn’t there. Kira (not her real name) and Michael had faced this circumstance before, so they went on with their day—snacks, homework, bedtime and getting up for school the following day. Another…

The springtime weather is so beautiful as I write this post, it’s as if Mother Nature were trying to make up for all the cold days of rain. I get to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I’m very grateful. With a slower pace of life, I’ve been noticing all the helpers in…

Compass Mark’s mission is to prevent addiction through education, skill-building, and community mobilization. On Monday, October 7th, Compass Mark hosted two of the original Freedom Writers, Tony Becerra, and Cynthia Ray, to share their stories with our community. The night was filled with messages of inspiration, empowerment, and resiliency. We celebrated both the 20th…

The DUI Council of Lancaster County is proud to unveil its latest billboard created by the Leaders of Future Generations program students. It is located on Route 30 EB between the Mountville Exit and the Centerville Exit. The students message of “I want the best for my future” depicts making good decisions, asking for help…