Youth participants demonstrate a greater awareness of health consequences and the ability to refuse alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs. Presented annually since 1989, these exemplary awards recognize prevention programs that excel in applying effective prevention strategies to meet the diverse needs of youth, parents, families and communities. The winning Pennsylvania State University programs are among 31 substance abuse prevention programs in 26 states to receive the 1999 Exemplary Award. These programs are showing us the way in our efforts to develop more effective and meaningful substance abuse prevention programs that identify and address community, family, school and mental health problems before they lead to substance abuse and other destructive behaviors. The Exemplary Awards this year for the first time recognize model prevention programs as well as promising prevention programs.
Promising programs are innovative prevention efforts producing positive initial results.
Model programs are implemented under scientifically rigorous conditions and must demonstrate consistently positive results. Theory the degree to which the project findings are based in clear and well-articulated theory, clearly stated hypotheses and clear operational relevance. Outcome Measures the operational relevance and quality of measures used in the evaluation, and the quality of supporting evidence. Utility the overall usefulness of project findings for substance abuse prevention practice. Representatives from state alcohol and drug agencies and national organizations nominated the promising programs.