Blue & You Foundation grants help treat and prevent substance use in Arkansas youth

Arkansas youth are in crisis, with 1 in 7 adolescents battling substance use disorders, according to the Arkansas Department of Human Services. The Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas is providing behavioral health grants to programs to prevent and treat substance use disorders and support recovery.

The foundation has awarded grants to two programs that will be instrumental for recovering youth and adolescents in Arkansas. The Wolfe Street Foundation’s Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) is Arkansas’ first community-based recovery program for teens in recovery. Working in tandem with YEP, UAMS has opened Six Bridges, a youth and adolescent clinical-based SUD treatment program.

The Blue & You Foundation is supporting mothers and their babies having awarded nearly $1 million in grants to nine organizations in August 2024. Learn more about who received grants.

Early intervention and prevention with YEP

Launched in July, YEP provides prevention programs, comprehensive recovery and a peer support model for Little Rock youth in grades 7 to 12. Their center features a teen lounge, computer lab, nutritious snacks, and homework help in a nurturing, safe, fun community for youth. TOV Wellness, a fully accredited counseling group, has partnered with the center.

“YEP will provide a safe space for kids to identify things in their lives that are important to them and then practice making decisions using their own personal values and mission statement,” said Rebecca Webber, project coordinator.

The program incorporates a dual curriculum focusing on the books “The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom” and “Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens.” These resources help them navigate interactions with others and teach them control in their decision-making and actions. Developing these skills within a supportive community prepares youth to make healthier choices.

Early intervention is crucial for youth who exhibit antisocial behavior or who make poor decisions and are at risk of substance use or self-harm. As one of the few programs in Arkansas designed for youth, YEP works to prevent youth substance use by offering support and early intervention. The program is also available for youth coming out of recovery programs.

Youth enrolled in YEP can access certified peer support specialists, support groups and after-school programs. YEP Peer Support Specialist Billie Jean Mayben, who faced substance dependency early in her life, offers invaluable guidance to the attendees.

“There’s an endless number of possibilities as to what they can do with their life, regardless of how they came up,” said Mayben. “I know that’s true because I’ve done it.”

These specialists are relatable and understand the resources available for others facing similar challenges.

Clinical support at UAMS Six Bridges Clinic

In March, UAMS opened its Six Bridges Clinic to provide clinical services and early intervention for youth aged 12 to 21 who are dealing with substance dependency. Youth can get screening and evaluation appointments for opioids, alcohol, marijuana, vaping and any other substances.

The clinic also offers family therapy and medication management to assist in ongoing recovery and co-occurring mental health disorders. These outpatient services help youth find the necessary support and resources without interrupting time in school or with their family. Together, YEP and Six Bridges offer hope to young Arkansans facing substance use challenges.

To learn more about YEP or enroll in an upcoming program session, visit wolfestreet.org/yep.

To learn more or schedule an appointment with the Six Bridges Clinic, call 501-526-8487.