YOUTH PREVENTION PROGRAMS
PVPSA's Youth Prevention Programs are collaborations between PVPSA, local community organizations and national programs that work to support youth to increase self-esteem by treating primary mental health issues which addresses the underlying causes of high-risk behavior.
THRIVING YOUTH AND COMMUNITY (TYC PROGRAM)
The TYC program provides Santa Cruz City and PVUSD schools with an avenue to support youth wellbeing, connect to school and community, and to reduce disciplinary incidents. The program improves youth wellbeing by strengthening connection to their community and school, expanding their knowledge about cannabis to make better decisions and providing restorative and healing alternatives to suspension. We offer trauma-informed, evidence-based, culturally and developmentally responsive supports for middle and high school youth aged 12–18.
Tiered pathways empower youth to make informed decisions about cannabis use, build resilience, and engage natural support systems to foster long-term success.
There are three pathways:
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PREVENTION: Cannabis Education and Building Support Systems
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Available as a series of workshops for classes/groups
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Available as Alternative to Suspension
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COUNSELING: Motivate Change and Reduce Cannabis Use
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CESSATION: Set Goals and Stop Cannabis Use
Thriving Youth and Community staff will help determine which pathway is appropriate for each student. Assessments and programming can occur both during and after school. Anyone can refer students to the program and student self-referrals are encouraged. To make a referral, complete the PVPSA confidential referral form.
For more information about services for youth, contact:
Jennifer Velasquez
Phone: 831-279 - 3883
Email: jennifer.velasquez@pvpsa.org
ENHANCED CARE MANAGEMENT (ECM) PROGRAM
ECM Program supports high-need youth (ages 3-20) and their families through comprehensive, community-based care coordination that is interdisciplinary, high-touch, and person-centered.
YOUTH OPIOID RESPONSE IV INITIATIVE
The Pajaro Valley Youth Substance Use Disorder Prevention and Education Project, expands youth-centered substance use prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery services in the Pajaro Valley and Santa Cruz County. The project empowers youth to become leaders in creating healthier communities by establishing a Youth Substance Use Advisory Board that helps guide strategies, programs, and policies that improve access to culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and youth-focused services. Through youth leadership and community partnerships the project strengthens culturally responsive prevention education, increases awareness of substance use risks, and connects youth and families to support services.
FAMILY NIGHTS
Session 1: Family Art & Creative Engagement
Youth and caregivers participate in interactive art activities led by PVPSA staff and local artists, fostering creativity and strengthening family connections.
Session 2: Family Education & Support
Families participate in educational workshops and supportive activities tailored to their needs. Guest speakers provide practical tools, resources, and information to promote family well-being.
ASCEND PROGRAM
Project Ascend is a three-month diversion program for eligible youth ages 12–17 charged with non-violent misdemeanor offenses, referred through the SCCOE in collaboration with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Department, that connects participants to support services to reduce recidivism, improve school attendance and achievement, and strengthen community connections.