Since 1976, YouthZone has been a cornerstone of support for youth and families in Colorado’s 9th Judicial District. We’re proud of the reputation we’ve built in the last 50 years: meeting young people where they are and walking alongside them through life’s challenges. Today, one of the most pressing issues facing families is underage drug and alcohol use — and YouthZone is uniquely equipped to respond.
Last year, we conducted 461 comprehensive assessments for 392 youth between the ages of 10 and 18. While only 30% of our clients are referred to us by local courts for possession of drugs and alcohol, our assessment data shows that nearly 60% are engaging in risky substance use behaviors, oftentimes to cope with the challenges of today’s tough world.
Staffed by a team of six dedicated professionals – including a Certified Addiction Specialist (CAS) and three Certified Addiction Technicians (CAT), our Substance Use Prevention and Education program blends group education with individualized support. Most youth participate in in-person group sessions where they explore the effects of substance use on their bodies, relationships, and communities. These sessions are supplemented by weekly one-on-one check-ins with case managers, and in cases where group settings aren’t appropriate, individual treatment is provided. For low-risk clients, virtual groups via Zoom offer a flexible alternative.
The results speak volumes. In the past year, YouthZone delivered 181 substance sessions totaling 590 hours of direct service to 163 youth. Among those served, 90% did not reoffend while in the program, and 91% successfully completed their contracts. More than half reported improved alcohol refusal skills, and 67% showed increased confidence in resisting marijuana and other drugs.
Behind these numbers are stories of resilience — teens who found new direction, families who reconnected, and communities that grew stronger. A key part of this healing process is the CRAFT program (Community Reinforcement and Family Training), which equips parents and caregivers with tools to support loved ones struggling with substance use. YouthZone’s Parent Coordinator and two CAT-certified staff are trained in CRAFT, ensuring families are not left out of the recovery journey.
YouthZone’s success is built on a foundation of collaboration. We maintain formal agreements with municipal and county governments, school districts, and state-level agencies to provide substance services to families in need. We are also a contracted provider for regional and national health plans, reflecting the trust and credibility we have earned across sectors.
Yet despite our proven impact and broad partnerships, YouthZone is facing a significant funding shortfall. Due to unexpected and unprecedented funding cuts from a variety of partners, we’re currently experiencing a budget shortfall of more than $250,000. Due to the unpredictable nature of today’s political and economic climate, this number could grow at any time. The need for sustainable funding is urgent — not just to maintain current services, but to ensure that no youth falls through the cracks.
Right now, the stakes are high. Substance use among teens remains a pressing public health concern, and early intervention programs like YouthZone’s are essential in preventing long-term harm. As our local, state, and national communities consider how to allocate scarce resources in trying times, the question isn’t whether YouthZone deserves support. It’s whether we can give up on a model that works, a team that’s trained, a program that’s proven, and a community that’s counting on it.
