Excellence in Prevention Awards
National recognition for protecting youth from the pediatric onset disease of substance use disorder
What
The SafeLaunch Excellence in Prevention Awards recognize cities, counties, school districts, youth service providers and Drug Free Coalitions that demonstrate extraordinary success in preventing exposure to and use of addictive substances before age 21, prioritizing youth wellness within a community.
Awardees will receive:
- A presentation at a meeting of the local City Council, County Board of Supervisors, School Board, or other scheduled public event
- A framed certificate
- A pre-written press release
- A letter describing the Award and the recipient's achievements
- Recognition on the SafeLaunch website and social media
Why
Communities that prioritize their youth are healthy, vital communities for all residents. There are actions that can be taken to protect our nation's young people from contracting substance use disorder, mental illness and chronic homelessness that often follows. Organizations that demonstrate a consistent and proactive commitment to fostering the mental and behavioral wellness of youth deserve to be spotlighted and awarded. Public recognition of specific actions taken within communities will inspire other communities to follow their lead. The intention of the Excellence in Prevention Award is improve the general health, wellness and vitality of our country, community by community.
Who
Any city, county, school district, youth service provider or Drug Free Coalition can apply for the recognition or be nominated.
How
To be considered for the award, the organization must provide evidence of exceptional accomplishments taken to protect youth from the incurable chronic brain disease of substance use. Examples of some primary substance use prevention achievements are provided on the application. The person nominating the organization will be an integral part of the award presentation.
Deadline
Applications and nomination forms are due no later than November 15 of each calendar year.
Award Determination
Nominees will be notified of their status within 1 month of submission, and recognized within 6 months of a positive determination on a mutually agreed upon date.
Award Presentation
SafeLaunch representatives will present awards at a meeting of the City Council, County Board of Supervisors, School Board, or other scheduled event. The specifics will be determined on a case by case basis. In some cases, awards may be given at a local airport with the SafeLaunch Addiction Prevention Aircraft and crew.