The Prevencion Sin Fronteras program is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the complex issue of youth substance use within the rural border town of Douglas, Arizona. Situated in a predominantly Latino community, the program recognizes the unique challenges faced by its residents, including systemic and historical traumas stemming from discrimination, violence, poverty, and toxic stress. At its core, Prevencion Sin Fronteras aims to provide tailored interventions that not only target substance use among youth but also address the underlying factors contributing to these behaviors. Utilizing evidence-based curriculums such as Catch My Breath, Thrive, and El Renacimiento, the program seeks to combat the prevalent issues of vaping and marijuana use while providing culturally responsive support for Latino youth. One of the distinguishing features of the program is its emphasis on trauma-informed care and cultural identity. By integrating the El Renacimiento curriculum developed by Amistades, Prevencion Sin Fronteras incorporates a unique cultural element aimed at fostering a positive identity and addressing cultural conflicts within the community. The success of the program is evident in its ability to reduce youth substance use, particularly in response to the alarming trends identified in the Arizona Youth Survey. Through success stories, testimonials, and case studies, the positive impact of Prevencion Sin Fronteras on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors is documented and celebrated. With a target audience of rural youth ages 10-18, along with adults, the program adopts a cost-effective approach to engage the community. Strategic partnerships with local entities such as the Douglas Unified School District, the Cochise County Youth Health Coalition, and law enforcement agencies facilitate outreach efforts and ensure a collaborative approach to addressing substance use. Sustainability is a key focus of Prevencion Sin Fronteras, achieved through securing funding via grants such as the TISAP grant, as well as through ongoing community partnerships and collaborations. The program envisions long-term growth and viability, with plans to expand outreach, refine curriculums based on feedback and data, and establish a resilient, trauma-informed school system. Prevencion Sin Fronteras aspires to serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges. By prioritizing cultural sensitivity, trauma-informed approaches, and community engagement, the program aims to inspire positive change and foster healthier, more resilient communities beyond Douglas, Arizona.
Latinos, Racial Equity, Social Justice, Cultural Preservation, Health Equity, Intergenerational Education, Narrative Change, Substance Abuse Prevention