CE26-0220 -the thrive alliance's goal is to promote prevention through education and awareness to prevent youth substance misuse of alcohol and prescription medications. - thrive alliance is a local…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded $125,000 to the 525 Foundation Inc. on July 1, 2026, under the Drug-Free Communities Support Program Grants (CFDA 93.276).

The 525 Foundation, leading the THRIVE Alliance community coalition, will deliver youth substance misuse prevention programming in Granger and Osceola, Indiana, targeting alcohol and prescription drug misuse among young people. Planned activities include "WISE UP" and #ONECHOICE school presentations on substance use risks; youth-led community events such as Say Boo to Drugs; evidence-based programming for student athletes through the Substance-Free Athletes Program; distribution of lock boxes and medication storage and disposal education at community events and medical offices; and social media and radio awareness campaigns. The coalition will measure progress through feedback from youth and families and track changes in attitudes and behaviors.

The award period runs through June 30, 2031. Place of performance is Indiana. The Drug-Free Communities Support Program establishes and strengthens collaboration among community coalitions, public and private non-profit agencies, and federal, state, local, and tribal governments to prevent and reduce substance abuse among youth and, over time, among adults by addressing community risk factors and promoting protective factors.

CE26-0220 -the thrive alliance's goal is to promote prevention through education and awareness to prevent youth substance misuse of alcohol and prescription medications. - thrive alliance is a local community coalition working to prevent youth substance misuse in granger and osceola, indiana. Our focus is on reducing alcohol and prescription drug misuse among young people by connecting families, schools, and community partners to support youth with the tools, knowledge, and encouragement they need to make safe, healthy choices. Led by the 525 foundation, thrive alliance empowers youth to play an active role in prevention efforts, not just as participants, but as leaders. We provide opportunities for teens to get involved in planning events, leading peer discussions, creating awareness campaigns, and shaping the coalition's work. When youth take the lead, prevention becomes more relatable, engaging, and impactful. Some of the activities planned include: bringing our "wise up" and #onechoice presentations into local schools to help students understand the risks of substance use and how to avoid IT. Hosting youth-led community events like say BOO to drugs, where students and families come together for prevention, resources, and fun. Supporting student athletes and school leaders through evidenced based programs such as substance-free athletes program, promoting positive choices both on and off the field. Distributing lock boxes and materials about safe medication storage and disposal at community events and doctor's offices. Launching social media and radio campaigns to raise awareness and reduce stigma around talking about substance misuse. We'll measure progress by gathering feedback from youth and families, tracking changes in attitudes and behaviors, and staying flexible in our approach. Thrive alliance believes that real change happens when the community comes together, and when youth are part of the solution. This project will give young people a stronger voice, more support, and a healthier path forward.