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Open in new tab To review a copy of the 2023 PNA, please click this link: 2023 PNA Profile Report
Before we act, we gather information and listen to our community.
SAFE’s first priority is understanding the issues around substance abuse in our community before identifying and implementing research-based best practices to address those issues. How do we know what needs to be addressed? SAFE’s initiatives are developed in response to issues identified through youth survey data, statistical data, and community input.
SAFE, in partnership with Chesterfield County Public Schools, administered the 2023 Prevention Needs Assessment to randomly selected students in 8th, 10th and 12th grades in December, 2023. Administered every two years since November 2005, this assessment tool measures youths’ substance use perceptions, behaviors, and emerging trends. Survey results were analyzed and publicized to help identify and plan effective substance use prevention strategies in our community.
Survey results showed most Chesterfield County youth who were surveyed in 2023 did not smoke, use marijuana, or drink alcohol within 30 days prior to taking the survey. This survey also showed E-cigarettes are the 2nd most popular substance being used but the rate of use has dropped consistently in each survey. With SAFE’s substance prevention initiatives and strategies, we will continue making an impact in the lives and decision-making of our youth in Chesterfield County.