The information below describes YADAPP as it has traditionally operated. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, adjustments have been made to ensure public health and safety. You can read more about these updates on the YADAPP 2020 page.
The Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention Project (YADAPP) is a peer-led program for high school students to address underage substance use at the high school level. YADAPP Teams of four student Participants and a dedicated Adult Sponsor attend a week long summer kick-off conference to develop strategic prevention plans addressing underage drug and alcohol use in their schools and communities. Throughout the conference, Participants will meet and interact with their like-minded peers during classroom and breakout sessions, motivational speakers and free time.
After the conference, students implement their plans in their schools and communities utilizing leadership and prevention skills learned during conference sessions. The excitement of the conference inspires students and their adult counterparts to continue participating each year and provides a positive environment for students to build their leadership skills.
YADAPP focuses on providing Participants, Adult Sponsors and Youth Staff curriculum on leadership, drug and alcohol prevention and strategic planning. Through YADAPP, program participants will:
- Broaden their knowledge of substance use prevention and work as a team to create a high school substance use prevention plan for their school.
- Learn leadership skills needed to address common issues among youth.
- Network and build supportive relationships with others from across Virginia.
YADAPP is administered by the Education and Prevention Section of the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority (ABC), which has been involved with the project since its inception in 1984.
