KOSCIUSKO — All Kosciusko County Schools will be back in session this month, it is an exciting time, but it can also be a time of anxiety for many youth and parents. Youth need to be prepared with skills when it comes to peer pressure to use substances. Are you a parent, grandparent or other significant adult in the life of a young person?  Kosciusko Cares Youth Services Bureau and the Drug Free Kosciusko Coalition can help you prepare to talk about substance use. Kosciusko Cares has resources on its website. Kosciusko Cares is committed to continually find and share reliable resources which features great ideas to help youth with issues of peer pressure. Kosciusko Cares is here to help prevent substance use and build resilience skills among Kosciusko youth. Link to Additional Resource 

Kosciusko Cares has programs proven to help students get along with others, foster caring, cooperation and respect including peaceful problem-solving, and appreciation of differences and the value of positive social relationships.  Not only do these programs convey clear messages about the harms of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, but they build abilities to make healthy choices and cope with life’s difficulties.

These programs are designed to reach children, youth, and families across the lifespan to provide a comprehensive reach throughout Kosciusko County.  Al’s Pals for Pre-K and Kindergarten classrooms, Botvin Life Skills for elementary, middle school, and high school age groups and Strengthening Families. 

Kosciusko Cares can bring these programs to a school classroom, after-school program, preschool or any youth serving group. 

If anyone have a desire to assist with the mission, Kosciusko Cares has open spots on the board and the Drug Free Kosciusko Coalition.  Contact Marsha Carey, at (574) 372-3528 or email [email protected]