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Summer Leadership Institute This free summer program provides a safe and fun environment for youth (ages 11-17) to learn how to succeed as a leader in their world. Using the "Positive Potential 6th grade" curriculum and a community service project, participants learn skills such as how to resist peer pressure, effective communication, building healthy relationships, self-esteem and goal setting. Each day of this 5-day program provides opportunities to learn in small and large group settings and collaborate with peers about topics and issues of interest to youth. Prizes and snacks are provided during the institute. REGISTER HERE The Positive Potential 6th grade curricula have been presented in schools and communities at a local and national level. This week-long program helps youth learn about: Self-esteem and sense of purpose Making healthy decisions Communicating effectively Understanding healthy relationships such as friendship, dating, and familial Avoiding high-risk behaviors And many other topics related to healthy relationships. The primary goal for these programs is to provide information that will enable youth to understand that they are valuable and that attached to that value is purpose. AZYP believes that each one of the youths that participate has a significant role to play in society. By incorporating refusal skills and reinforcing positive youth development, youth can become more confident in themselves and in their ability to take on life's greatest challenges. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CURRICULUM HERE For more information 520-744-9595

Copper Basin Coalition The Copper Basin Coalition has been functioning since 2006 as a grass roots community substance abuse coalition in the Globe/Miami area. It began as a Drug Free Communities funded coalition supported by Arizona Youth Partnership. That funding ended in 2011 and the Coalition has continued to provide youth and community programming since then with local support. The mission of the Copper Basin Coalition is to empower the youth and adults in Southern Gila County to choose a drug-free and healthy lifestyle by uniting citizens and organizations to reduce substance abuse and promote community safety through community-based education, awareness, and advocacy The Coalition utilizes the Strategic Prevention Framework to design its yearly action plan utilizing proven strategies to lower youth use of drugs and alcohol and increase protective factors such as school and neighborhood attachment, conflict resolution skills, healthy parenting skills, and strong social supports. The Coalition works to build capacity in our communities for a healthier environment for families to raise healthy and successful youth. Our Locations: Globe, Arizona Miami, Arizona Contact: Julie Craig 928.961.0426 JulieC@AZYP.org

Mental Health Intercept Map Treatment & Recovery Treatment Now Treatment is broken down into two main boxes—Medical and Non-Medical. The former is the route which involves medical management or intervention. The latter is any other form of treatment that does not require medicine. These include therapy, groups, and communities. However, both have some issues: Lack of knowledge about mental health coverage Some people are unaware of the fact that mental health is covered on health insurance. It is not "advertised" as much as regular health insurance. Lack of professionals. This is an ongoing theme for Arizona. Difficult to find information about nonmedical treatments beyond therapy People may not know where to find them or if they can be credible. Some possible solutions to make it easier: Promote behavioral health insurance coverage the same as physical health (like intervention) Telehealth services to be able to extend to communities in underserved areas. Most help beyond therapy is small and community based, how can the word be spread? Recovery Finally, Recovery. This is the intercept when people are on track to achieving a state of mental health that does not require intervention. This could look like beginning to wean off medication, seeing a therapist less frequently, etc. It important to keep in mind that people may flow back and forth between this intercept and the previous one, treatment. Sometimes, this intercept can be skipped altogether-- for example, being on antidepressants for life to manage depression. People can still have good mental health even if they stay in treatment. There are some issues within this intercept: Based on how the person feels. while this also a good thing, stopping treatment "cold turkey" can have regressive effects on mental health. Lack of professionals for continued guidance. The theme! Potential solutions may include Create a plan that can be stuck to long term Include professional guidance to ease off treatment and create the plan. Have a unified definition about the person's subjective feeling. possibly use concepts such as quality and outlook on life, and one's drive. Maintain continued support through peers and family. Go Back Contact: Kelley Coronado 520.591.1490 Kelley@AZYP.org

Too Good for Drugs Too Good for Drugs and Violence Skill development is at the core of Too Good for Drugs, a universal K-12 prevention education program designed to mitigate the risk factors and enhance protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug (ATOD) use. The lessons introduce and develop social and emotional skills for making healthy choices, building positive friendships, developing self-efficacy, communicating effectively, and resisting peer pressure and influence. Too Good for Drugs teaches five essential social and emotional learning skills, which research has linked with healthy development and academic success: Setting Reachable Goals Making Responsible Decisions Bonding with Pro-Social Others Identifying and Managing emotions Communicating Effectively Learn More here... Elementary At the elementary school level, additional skills and developmental topics build on the core skill set to broaden the student’s sense of self-efficacy and confidence. Lesson designs are tailored to the intellectual, cognitive, and social development of the student. Interactive games and activities help students visualize and apply the strategies and skills directly so they can begin to apply them in their daily life right away. Middle School Too Good for Drugs empowers teens to meet the challenges of middle school life fostering confidence and building resistance to substance abuse. Students set and reach more complex goals and, in the process, develop and practice stronger decision-making skills and effective-communication skills. High School Too Good for Drugs in High School applies real world challenges teens face in high school to explore practical guidance for understanding the negative health effects related to prescription drug misuse, underage drinking, marijuana abuse, opioid abuse, and nicotine use. Students also explore the stages of addiction and the risks associated with experimentation. The holistic approach (school, student, family) to the program helps make sure that across the board the objectives are being supported and encouraged. The goal is to set the student up for success and this program helps the other adults in their lives to be a part of that as well. -Colleen D., Community Outreach Specialist Our Locations: Services are provided statewide either in person or through virtual programming throughout the state of Arizona. If you are interested in seeing one of our programs at your location please contact us. Contact: Julie Craig 928.961.0426 JulieC@AZYP.org

We serve communities throughout Arizona We offer services in all counties! Satellite Offices Across the State of Arizona Click Here for More Info Headquarters Tucson, AZ Click Here for More Info Youth Shelters Click Here for More Info Services are provided either in person or through virtual programming throughout the state of Arizona. Want to schedule a program in your location? Contact Us! 1-877-882-2881 Azyp@AZYP.org

Volunteers help make a valuable contribution to Arizona youth, their families, and communities. We have programs throughout the state, therefore volunteer opportunities vary by location and per program needs. Click here to visit our locations page and see where you can volunteer! Examples of volunteer opportunities for community members: Fundraising & Outreach Community Coalitions Become a Mentor for Youth Guest Speaking for youth leadership Conducting drives for our youth in shelters & parenting families Click here to sign up for a volunteer opportunity! Did you know that volunteering brings mental health benefits? Read more here!

Crisis Resources Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Call or Text 988 Crisis Response Center, Pima County (24/7): 520.622.6000 OR 866.495.6735 Crisis Text Line (24/7): Text HOME to 741741 The Hope Warmline (8AM-10PM, 8AM-6PM on Holidays) 520.770.9909 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800.273.8225 Ayuda En Español: 888.628.9454 SAMHSA National Helpline (24/7): 1.800.662.4375 Teen Line (24/7): 1.602.248.8336 OR 1.800.248.8336 The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ Youth Crisis: 1.866.488.7386 Tohono O'odham Nation Crisis Line 844.423.8759 The NAMI Helpline (Mon - Fri, 10AM - 6PM ET): 1.800.950.6264 Go Back Contact: Kelley Coronado P: 520.591.1490 E-mail: Kelley@AZYP.org

AZYP's 'Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities' virtual series, tackles critical issues like youth mental health, substance misuse, and family dynamics. Monthly expert-led discussions empower parents, caregivers, and communities to support Arizona's youth. A virtual series that tackled the issues that matter most to youth and those who support them. What is Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities? "Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities" was Arizona Youth Partnership’s monthly virtual series in 2025 designed to bring experts, community leaders, and families together to discuss critical issues impacting youth and families in Arizona. From substance misuse and youth mental health to homelessness and healthy relationships, we provide valuable insights and tools to help caregivers and community members empower the next generation. Watch Anytime: Past Sessions On Demand TARGETED: SOCIAL MEDIA & YOUTH - LANGUAGE, EMOJIS, & APPS During this discussion, we explored how social media influences youth communication, peer interactions, and potential risks. A huge thank you to Robert DeVries for sharing valuable insights on how social media influences youth and what parents & caregivers should know. Learn more about Robert’s impactful work at MSTEPP . 💬 Key Topics Covered: ✅ The evolving digital language of youth ✅ Hidden meanings behind emojis & slang ✅ Popular apps and their potential risks ✅ How parents & caregivers can stay informed NATIONAL NUTRITION MONTH This month, in honor of National Nutrition Month, we’re excited to welcome Preston Harris, PhD, RDN, CLT as our featured speaker. Dr. Harris, a leading expert in nutrition and wellness, will discuss the critical role of nutrition in youth development and overall well-being. Learn how balanced diets, healthy eating habits, and proper nutrition impact physical health, cognitive function, and long-term success for young people in our communities. 🔹 Nutrition Trends (foods & social media) 🔹 How can families support healthy eating habits? 🔹 Tips for Youth & Parents/Caregivers Visit www.dukenutritionexperts.com to learn more about their services. YOUTH FINANCIAL LITERACY In this May edition we explore the power of financial literacy in helping youth build a strong foundation for adulthood. Our featured guest, Orlando Guillen from Vantage West Credit Union, shares valuable insights on how financial education can reduce stress, promote smarter decision-making, and empower young people to build a more resilient future. 💸 Key questions explored in this session include: 🔹 How can “buy now, pay later” apps like Afterpay and Klarna impact a young person’s financial health? 🔹 Why might a credit union, like Vantage West, be a better banking option for youth than traditional banks? 🔹 How can parents and caregivers help prepare youth for financial independence while still offering guidance and a safety net? Whether you're a parent, educator, or youth mentor, this session provides practical strategies and real-life advice to support financial empowerment. Thank you to Vantage West for being a Silver Sponsor of the CMSC series! KEEP OUR YOUTH SAFE In this July edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities, we focus on practical ways to keep youth safe. Our panel of expert guest speakers includes: 👥 Amy Lantz, Speak Up Be Safe Coordinator, Childhelp 👥 Pete Plahmer, Trauma Outreach & Injury Prevention Coordinator, Banner University Medical Center 👥 Sergeant Jessina Janes & Deputy Elliott Lyle, Pima County Sheriff's Department Together, we discuss: Water Safety Tips for summer activities, Warning Signs of Abuse in sports and extracurricular settings, and Spatial Awareness and Personal Safety as youth return to school. 📚 Resources Shared During the Session: 🔹 Learn more about trauma and injury prevention at Banner UMC: https://surgery.arizona.edu/divisions-and-sections/trauma-surgical-critical-care-burns-and-acute-care-surgery/services/trauma 🔹 Explore Childhelp’s child abuse prevention education: https://www.childhelp.org/ 📞 National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 🔹 Learn about the Pima County Sheriff’s Department School Resource Officer (SRO) program and community services: https://www.pimasheriff.org/services/SRO 👉 We encourage you to check your own county’s sheriff department website to see what youth safety services are available in your area. KEEP OUR YOUTH SAFE In this September edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities, we tackle a deeply important topic: Suicide Prevention—Supporting Youth Who Have Experienced Loss. We’re honored to welcome Jacob Meyer-Van Damme, Territory Director for Charlie Health, who partners with hospitals, schools, and community providers to expand access to care across Southern Arizona. Jacob will help answer tough but vital questions, including: ✨ How can youth cope with grief after losing someone to suicide? ✨ What unique challenges do they face, and what are the first steps to healing? ✨ What warning signs should parents and caregivers look for? ✨ How can community leaders help reduce stigma and build prevention through education? 📌 Resources: - National 24-Hour Crisis Hotlines: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988 - National Substance Use and Disorder Issues Referral and Treatment Hotline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357) - Charlie Health: www.charliehealth.com Admissions: 1 (866) 948-2178 - Arizona Statewide Crisis Hotline: 1-844-534-HOPE (4673) - Teen Lifeline: 602-248-TEEN (8336) NATIONAL RUNAWAY PREVENTION MONTH: SHOWING KINDNESS & GIVING SUPPORT In this November edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities, we recognize National Runaway Prevention Month with a powerful conversation on how families, caregivers, and communities can better support youth who feel unseen, unheard, or overwhelmed. Our speaker, Kelly Tanner, AZYP’s Director of Youth Services, explores the emotional, social, and environmental factors that lead young people to consider running away—and what caring adults can do to help. 🧠 Key questions discussed: 🔹 How can adults show genuine, non-judgmental care to a young person who feels misunderstood? 🔹 What do teens who have run away wish they knew beforehand—especially with social media glamorizing escape? 🔹 What early warning signs do parents often miss or dismiss as “normal teen behavior”? 🔹 What myths about runaway and homeless youth prevent communities from stepping up with real support? 📚 Resources shared during the stream: 🔗 National Runaway Safeline: https://www.1800runaway.org/ 🔗 Teen Lifeline: https://teenlifeline.org/ Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, youth mentor, or community member, this session offers meaningful insight into how kindness, connection, and awareness can change a young person’s path. TEEN DATING VIOLENCE AWARENESS: HELPING YOUTH ESTABLISH HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS While February’s Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities session isn’t available on video, we’ve created a helpful worksheet with the key topics and practical strategies to support youth in building healthy, respectful relationships. ✅ Download the worksheet here: ALCOHOL AWARENESS & REDUCING UNDERAGE DRINKING In this April edition we’re recognizing Alcohol Awareness Month with an important conversation on Reducing Underaged Drinking. Our featured speaker, Jessica Valadez, Prevention Specialist with the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC) Education and Prevention Unit, shares essential information for youth, parents/caregivers, and community members on preventing underage alcohol use and promoting safer environments. 🧠 Key questions discussed: 🔹 What are the biggest health and safety risks teens face when they drink underage, and how can they protect themselves? 🔹 What signs should parents look for if they suspect their teen might be drinking? 🔹 How can community members report suspicious activity—like adults buying alcohol for teens—without escalating tensions? 📌 Resources shared during the session: 📞 Report underage drinking: 1-877-668-5345 or 602-364-0079 📞 Report complaints (e.g. over-serving, violence at establishments): 602-542-9062 🌐 Learn more: azliquor.gov RUNAWAY & HOMELESSNESS YOUTH: UNDERSTANDING VARIED EXPERIENCES In this June edition we focus on the complex and diverse realities of runaway and homeless youth. Our featured speaker, Matt Finley, Prevention Specialist and Youth Services Planner with the Maricopa Association of Governments and the Maricopa Regional Continuum of Care, offers critical insight into the unique challenges facing youth experiencing homelessness, especially those who identify as LGBTQ+, live in rural communities, or have experience in the foster care system. 🧠 Key questions discussed: 🔹 What resources are available for homeless youth, especially LGBTQ+, rural, or foster care youth, and how can they access them? 🔹 How can marginalized youth identify and avoid discrimination when seeking help? 🔹 What role can community members play in providing safe, inclusive support for youth in crisis? 📌 Resources shared during the session: 📞 Teen Lifeline: 1-800-248-8336 📞 National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-786-2929 📞 Suicide and Crisis Line: 988 YOUTH FRIENDSHIP Join us for this session of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities as we explore Youth Friendship: How social media influences youth's friendships. This important conversation highlights the ways social media impacts bullying prevention, online awareness, and the safety of young people navigating friendships in today’s digital world. We’re honored to be joined by Kacie Passamonte, Prevention Operations and Support Manager at Childhelp , who brings over 20 years of experience working with youth as an educator, advocate, and coach. Kacie helps lead child abuse prevention efforts through education, training, and curriculum development, and shares her deep understanding of the challenges youth face today. ✨ Together, we’ll discuss: How social media shapes youth friendships The risks and threats young people encounter online Practical strategies for parents, caregivers, and communities to support safe and healthy friendships 📘 Below are two helpful resource documents: How to report online harm or exploitation Getting help if online harm happens Learn more about Childhelp's Speak Up Be Safe here YOUTH SUBSTANCE USE: IT'S HAPPENING In this October edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities session, we’re diving into an important topic — Youth Substance Use. Together, we explore what Arizona youth, parents, and schools can do to stay informed and proactive about emerging trends and prevention strategies. Here are some of the key questions discussed in this session: 1️⃣ How can youth handle peer pressure at school events or parties, especially with the rise of fentanyl-laced vapes? 2️⃣ How is social media fueling prescription pill misuse among youth — and what red flags should you watch for? 3️⃣ What steps should parents take if they see substance-related content or links online? 4️⃣ How can schools and youth organizations work with prevention partners to strengthen fentanyl education in Arizona? 📌 Resources: www.dea.gov/onepill www.saclaz.org/ www.azhidta.org/expert-resources MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE HOLIDAYS & SELF-CARE The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be overwhelming for youth and families. In this December edition of Connecting Minds, Strengthening Communities, Corytha Gastineau and Trish Ford are leading an important conversation on supporting mental well-being during a busy, emotionally loaded season. 🧠 They’ll be answering questions like: 🔹What are simple, no-cost ways youth can practice self-care when time and money are limited? 🔹Why is it important for parents to model self-care—and what does that look like when they’re exhausted too? 🔹If we want our community to feel mentally safer for youth and families, what’s one thing everyone can start doing today? Join us as we wrap up the year with tools, insight, and encouragement for a healthier holiday season. 📚 Resources shared during the stream: 🔗 www.thetrevorproject.org 🔗 www.charliehealth.com 🔗 Veterans Crisis Line 🔗 National Helpline for Mental Health, Drug, Alcohol Issues | SAMHSA 🔗 Mindfulness Exercise: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) 🔗 Mindfulness Exercise: Vagus Nerve Reset National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (available 24 hours a day) 1-800-273-TALK (8255) [24/7 Hotline] 1-888-628-9454 (Spanish) 1-800-799-4889 (TTY) Text “MHFA” to 741741 Download AZYP's "How Are You Feeling Today?" Sheet Download the 988 Info Sheet Download the Mindful Moments Sheet

Frequently Asked Questions How can we start a program in our community? If we are not in your community, fill out this form to inquire about starting a program in your community. Or give us a call at 520-744-9595 Where does my donation go? Each donation goes toward the crucial development of creating young leaders in our communities, empowering youth families and community to continue to thrive for a better tomorrow. Do I have to pay a fee in order to participate in a program? The majority of our programs are offered at no cost. The Wake Up! Program does require a fee, and we provide some trainings like Youth Mental Health First Aid for a fee. What are the age requirements for youth to participate in programs? Age requirements differ for all our programs. Contact us for further details. How can youth & families enroll in a program? You can enroll in our programs by calling 520-744-9595 or by contacting us here. What services do you provide? We offer different services across the state, like: Youth Homeless Shelters , Healthy Relationship Education Classes , Stronger Families Project , Support for Pregnant and Parenting Teens , Youth Mental Health First Aid , Drug & Alcohol Prevention Education , among others. Where are you located? We have several offices across the State. Click here to see our locations. Who is AZYP? We are a non-profit organization that was started in 1990 by a group of Pima County concerned citizens that felt there was a need to provide youth and families with the adequate resources they needed in order to live healthy successful lives. We have since then expanded into a statewide organization serving over 6 counties across the state. Offering a variety of programs addressing the needs of all the communities we serve across the state. What is the purpose of your programs? Each of our programs have a different purpose but with the same goal in mind of empowering youth and families to make healthy choices that will help them to live healthy successful lives. Are you a new organization? Our organization has been around since 1990 but we had a different name at the time called Pima Youth Partnership, where we only served citizens of Pima County then we expanded and changed our identity because we saw a greater need for our services, programs across the state hence the name, Arizona Youth Partnership. Do you offer volunteer and internship opportunities? Yes, we offer both! Click here for information on our volunteer program Click here for information on our internship program Make sure you specify which location you are interested in volunteering and interning at. For more information call (520)-744-9595. Are you a faith-based organization? We are not a faith-based. Is abstinence the focus of all your programs? Each of our programs cover different content. Some of our programs are sexual risk avoidance programs meaning they provide a holistic approach to abstinence while discussing a variety of topics that are crucial when it comes to developmental growth of youth and family stability.

Family Resources Online Sources The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) AHCCCS administers Medicaid funding in Arizona. To see if you qualify for medical assistance for AHCCCS, apply here . The Child Mind Institute The Child Mind Institute offers insights and advice on common concerns and tips for facing challenges many families share. The Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event Guide includes advice for how to help children from birth to age 18. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA) Offers local support groups and online support groups for family members and friends of people with mental health disorders. Fingerprint for Success' Depression at Work Article Bev Campling from Marlee created this article about depression and burnout in the workforce. It focuses on reducing the stigma of depression as well as provides answers and suggestions to questions such as " Can depression at work actually be burnout?" and "Can you be depressed without knowing it?" Additionally, it provides online resources for support. Healthy Children Healthy Children, from the American Academy Pediatrics, provides information for parents, including "Ten Things Parents Can Do to Prevent Suicide" The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NAMI's website has a "Find Support" section for families and caregivers with guidance on what to do during a crisis, how to best support recover, and taking care of your own mental health The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) NIMH has many resources, including a fact sheet on diagnosis and treatment for children for mental health disorders. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services offers mental health resources and information at MentalHealth.gov , including tips on how to talk to children about mental health. Article: Tips and Resources for Parents of LGBTQ+ Youth This article is from a Goranson Bain Ausley Family Law firm While located in Texas, Author Mona Hosseiny-Tovar compiled helpful tips, resources, and discusses various myths around LGBTQ+. Article: PTSD & C ar Accidents This article is from NST Attorneys at Law where they emphasize the trauma and risks of developing PTSD from car accidents for individuals, families, and children. Additionally, they discuss protective factors and various treatments, such as CBT, EMDR, and CPT, that are available. Youth Mental Health Project Youth Mental Health Project is a grassroots organization that educates and supports families and communities so they can support the social, emotional, mental, and behavioral health of youth . MFT Programs Resources for Suicide This article contains information and resources about suicide. The resources are broken down further by LGBTQ+, Veterans, people who are neurodivergent, and various others. While still not specific to Arizona, there are great resources and help find aid to those who need it. Article: Jobs & Career Guide for People with Mental Illness. This article is from Frank Hackett, a professional resume writer and career consultant. This guide offers helpful advice on how to find a job while dealing with mental health treatment. It includes tips for writing resumes and cover letters, practicing for interviews, and staying confident. Dr. Barbara Cox shares her advice on job hunting and taking care of your mental health during the process. Go Back Contact: Kelley Coronado P: 520.591.1490 E-mail: Kelley@AZYP.org

Oops! Page Not Found It looks like the page you're searching for isn't here, but don't worry! At Arizona Youth Partnership (AZYP), we've been serving communities throughout Arizona for over 30 years with a focus on prevention and partnership. Our roots run deep in southern Arizona, and we're dedicated to bringing programs to youth and families to help them thrive. Please take a moment to explore our programs and discover how we can support you and your community. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact us directly. We're here to help! CHECK OUT OUR PROGRAMS