Prevent substance use
Practical education and skills that help young people make informed choices.
Get involvedRooted in Louisville since 2009
Youth voices.
Stronger futures.
STYC equips young people and families with the knowledge, support, and leadership skills to prevent substance use, promote mental wellness, and reduce violence.
15+years of community-rooted prevention
Why STYC exists
Prevention works best when young people help lead it.
We believe youth deserve more than warnings. They deserve trusted adults, meaningful experiences, accurate information, and room to shape the solutions that affect their lives.
Our programs are culturally responsive, youth-centered, and grounded in the strengths already present in Louisville’s neighborhoods.
Promote mental wellness
Supportive spaces where youth can name stress, practice coping, and build resilience.
Develop youth leaders
Real opportunities for young people to speak, create, organize, and lead.
Programs & services
Prevention built for real life.
Our work reaches youth, parents, caregivers, professionals, and community members through education, practical resources, and opportunities to take action.
Prevention + wellness
The Pivot Project
Pre-coordinated youth sessions focused on opioid prevention, mental wellness check-ins, and leadership experiences for ages 12–24.
View youth sessionsCreative expression
Pieces 2 Peace
Pre-coordinated youth and family engagement sessions using art, reflection, and practical skills to strengthen decision-making and build peace.
View youth sessionsHealthy choices
Bet on Yourself
Graphic novels, youth-created campaigns, and honest conversations that explore gambling risks and healthier choices.
Explore Bet on YourselfVoice + leadership
Youth Advocates
Young people learn to use their voices, lead prevention efforts, and create the change they want to see in their communities.
Learn about Youth AdvocatesParent awareness
Hidden in Plain Sight
An interactive learning experience that helps parents and caregivers recognize signs of possible substance use and begin informed, supportive conversations with youth.
View workshop detailsTraining + workshops
Community Capacity Building Series
Practical trainings—including trauma-informed care, QPR, Mental Health First Aid, and other prevention topics—equip community members to recognize concerns and respond effectively.
View the training seriesFamily + community safety
Resources & Safe Storage
Find information about STYC's medicine lock box and gun safe distribution, safe disposal, substance-use prevention, treatment support, and family resources.
Browse resourcesCommunity impact
Small enough to listen.
Experienced enough to lead.
STYC has spent more than a decade turning prevention research into relevant, local action—from peer education and community training to safe-storage resources and family workshops.
Bring STYC to your community2009Founded in the Shawnee neighborhood
416+Gun and medicine safety items distributed
12–24Youth and young adult age range served
501(c)(3)Public charity serving Louisville families
Working together
Community partners
We are grateful to the organizations whose partnership helps strengthen young people, families, and neighborhoods.
Louisville Metro Council District 5
My Chosen People
No More Red Dots
Seven Counties Services
Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels
RJ Ministries
NorthWest Area Health Education Center
There’s a place for you here
Help young people thrive.
Invite STYC to your school or organization, become a community partner, support a program, or ask about enrolling a young person.