Supporting the Work of So Many

Every day, prevention specialists and prevention providers across America dedicate their lives to supporting those struggling with substance misuse. Prevention First works directly with those preventionists or providers, supporting their work with the tools, training, and resources needed to change lives and build healthy communities.

Since 1985, Prevention First has been Illinois’ preferred provider of training and technical assistance. We train an average of 1,300 people annually and deliver 55 training sessions.

We employ many different approaches to most effectively disseminate this information, including live events (classroom-based, virtual, and webinars), on-demand options (online self-study and recorded webinar events), one-on-one technical assistance, coaching services, and web-based resources. All of which are rooted in evidence-based prevention approaches. 

The result: Our training and technical assistance services provide professionals and volunteers the training and information they need to effectively impact substance misuse in their communities so they can, in turn, spend their time directly impacting their communities rather than spending valuable time researching appropriate prevention methodology.

To register for a course, please become a member of Prevention First!

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Prevention First Training Policy


Training Options


Classroom-based (instructor-led) training offers a guided, interactive learning experience where participants and facilitators can discuss new information and practice new skills.

Virtual classroom (instructor-led, online) training offers participants a guided, interactive learning experience outside the Prevention First classroom.

Webinar (instructor-led, online) events offer participants a structured learning experience that is less interactive and often has a shorter time frame. 

Self-paced training (online) allows participants to complete the material independently. 

Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE ILLINOIS INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE USE PREVENTION (IISUP) SERIES

Illinois Introduction to Substance Use Prevention (IISUP) III: A Framework for Prevention

Wednesday, July 17 - Thursday, July 18, 2024
09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Online
Description

This virtual classroom training introduces Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Substance Use Prevention Program (SUPP) providers to the prevention specialist’s role in service delivery. Participants will be introduced to strategies for program planning, capacity-building, implementation, and evaluation. Participants will also learn about their role in prevention, including an exploration of ethical issues related to their personal and professional conduct.

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Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGNS SERIES

Ten Steps for Planning and Implementing Communication Campaigns

Tuesday, July 23 - Thursday, July 25, 2024
01:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Online
Description

During this interactive virtual classroom course, participants will learn about the steps and best practices involved in campaign planning and implementation.

All SUPS and CSUPS staff reporting hours for communication campaigns who have not previously completed Planning and Implementing Communication Campaigns are required to complete this course.

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Live Webinar

Overview of 42 CFR Part 8

Wednesday, July 24, 2024
12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Online
Description

The Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (IDHS/SUPR) is conducting a training focused on 42 CFR Part 8.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), published the final revisions to the regulation on February 2, 2024. The regulation became effective on April 2, 2024 and organizations must come into compliance no later than October 2, 2024.

At least one representative and medical director from organizations licensed to provide substance use disorder treatment and provide methadone as an adjunct (opioid treatment programs) are required to participate in the webinar.

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Classroom

safeTALK

Tuesday, July 30, 2024
01:00 PM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

LivingWorks safeTALK is a four-hour face-to-face workshop featuring powerful presentations, audiovisuals, and skills practice.

At a LivingWorks safeTALK workshop, you'll learn how to prevent suicide by recognizing signs, engaging someone, and connecting them to an intervention resource for further support.

A skilled, supportive trainer will guide you through the course, and a community resource will be on hand to support your safety and comfort.

LivingWorks safeTALK provides in-depth skills to recognize signs of suicide, engage someone, and ensure a connection to safety. The in-person format includes powerful audiovisuals and live practice.

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Classroom

SPF Application for Prevention Success Training (SAPST)

Tuesday, August 6 - Friday, August 9, 2024
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Springfield Office (Headquarters) - Springfield, IL
Description

Join us for an innovative four-day, in-person training that will equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to implement effective, data-driven prevention strategies that reduce behavioral health disparities and promote overall wellness. This training is perfect for entry-level prevention specialists, individuals seeking certification, public health professionals, and health educators.

What Does The SAPST Prepare You To Do?

  • Improve Practice: Develop a comprehensive approach to prevention guided by SAMHSA's Strategic Prevention Framework.
  • Reduce Disparities: Identify the needs of vulnerable populations and enhance cultural competency to reduce behavioral health disparities.
  • Sustain Prevention: Collaborate effectively across sectors to address shared risk factors and improve community health and well-being.

Certified Prevention Specialist Hours:

  • IC&RC's Prevention Specialist Credentialing Approved: This training offers 31 hours that can be applied toward meeting the education/training requirement.
  • Continuing education hours (CEUs) are only available to participants who complete the online and in-person training components.

 

Note: Although some of the content is similar, the SAPTS training does not meet the IDHS SUPP New Worker training requirements of IISUP I, IISUP II, and IISUP III.

The SAPST includes a self-paced online component and face-to-face training, totaling 31 training hours. Before registration for the in-person training can be approved, SAPST participants MUST complete the online course Introduction to Substance Abuse Prevention: Understanding the Basics.

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Virtual Classroom

Foundations of Youth Prevention Education

Tuesday, August 13 - Thursday, August 15, 2024
09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Online
Description

Foundations of Youth Prevention Education prepares direct service providers to implement evidence-based Youth Prevention Education (YPE) programs. Participants will obtain a basic understanding of the components and best practices related to implementing any YPE model program. This training will increase participants’ knowledge and skills related to planning, managing, facilitating, and evaluating a Youth Prevention Education program.

All SUPP providers reporting hours for youth prevention education are required to complete this course.

Virtual Classroom Training Note: Regular classroom time for this course is 12 hours. Since the classroom time for this modified course is only 9 hours, participants must complete 3 hours of individual work to obtain credit for the course. Prework will be assigned for each session.

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Classroom

Too Good for Drugs 4th and 5th Grade

Tuesday, August 20, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Springfield Office (Headquarters) - Springfield, IL
Description

TGFD is a school-based prevention program designed to reduce the risk factors and enhance the protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among students. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the core curriculum while acquiring essential prevention education teaching strategies. The trainer will familiarize participants with the research, theory, and concepts behind the program and provide an opportunity for facilitation practice.

The Too Good for Drugs Program has a developmentally appropriate and separate curriculum for grades K-12. This training is designed to prepare facilitators to implement the Too Good for Drugs (TGFD) Program successfully for 4th/5th grade students and with fidelity within a classroom setting.

Too Good for Drugs Program manuals/materials are NOT included with this training program. Participants may bring all Teachers Manuals for the Too Good for Drugs Program for grades they facilitate or at the least, participants should bring a minimum of one Teacher’s Manual as well as one Student Workbook.

Participants who do not have the most up-to-date materials may obtain them from the Mendez Foundation at https://toogoodprograms.org/collections/too-good-for-drugs

Prevention First will have training materials on hand for viewing only.

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Classroom

Too Good For Drugs Middle School/High School Combined

Wednesday, August 21, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Springfield Office (Headquarters) - Springfield, IL
Description

TGFD is a school-based prevention program designed to reduce the risk factors and enhance the protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among students. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the core curriculum while acquiring essential prevention education teaching strategies. The trainer will familiarize participants with the research, theory, and concepts behind the program and provide an opportunity for facilitation practice.

The Too Good for Drugs Program has a developmentally appropriate and separate curriculum for grades K-12. This training is designed to prepare facilitators to implement the Too Good for Drugs (TGFD) Program for either MS or HS grades successfully and with fidelity within a classroom setting. It is most applicable to those that facilitate TGFD in both the MS and the HS settings. However, it will meet the IDHS training requirements for those implementing TGFD in either middle school or high school.  

Too Good for Drugs Program manuals/materials are NOT included with this training program. Participants may bring all Teachers Manuals for the Too Good for Drugs Program for grades they facilitate or at the least participants should bring a minimum of one Teacher’s Manual as well as one Student Workbook.

Participants who do not have the most up-to-date materials may obtain them from the Mendez Foundation at https://toogoodprograms.org/collections/too-good-for-drugs 

Prevention First will have training materials on hand for viewing only.

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Classroom

Too Good for Drugs 4th and 5th Grade

Tuesday, August 27, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

TGFD is a school-based prevention program designed to reduce the risk factors and enhance the protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among students. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the core curriculum while acquiring essential prevention education teaching strategies. The trainer will familiarize participants with the research, theory, and concepts behind the program and provide an opportunity for facilitation practice.

The Too Good for Drugs Program has a developmentally appropriate and separate curriculum for grades K-12. This training is designed to prepare facilitators to implement the Too Good for Drugs (TGFD) Program successfully for 4th/5th grade students and with fidelity within a classroom setting.

Too Good for Drugs Program manuals/materials are NOT included with this training program. Participants may bring all Teachers Manuals for the Too Good for Drugs Program for grades they facilitate or at the least, participants should bring a minimum of one Teacher’s Manual as well as one Student Workbook.

Participants who do not have the most up-to-date materials may obtain them from the Mendez Foundation at https://toogoodprograms.org/collections/too-good-for-drugs

Prevention First will have training materials on hand for viewing only.

Read More
Classroom

Too Good For Drugs Middle School/High School Combined

Wednesday, August 28, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

TGFD is a school-based prevention program designed to reduce the risk factors and enhance the protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among students. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the core curriculum while acquiring essential prevention education teaching strategies. The trainer will familiarize participants with the research, theory, and concepts behind the program and provide an opportunity for facilitation practice.

The Too Good for Drugs Program has a developmentally appropriate and separate curriculum for grades K-12. This training is designed to prepare facilitators to implement the Too Good for Drugs (TGFD) Program for either MS or HS grades successfully and with fidelity within a classroom setting. It is most applicable to those that facilitate TGFD in both the MS and the HS settings. However, it will meet the IDHS training requirements for those implementing TGFD in either middle school or high school.  

Too Good for Drugs Program manuals/materials are NOT included with this training program. Participants may bring all Teachers Manuals for the Too Good for Drugs Program for grades they facilitate or at the least participants should bring a minimum of one Teacher’s Manual as well as one Student Workbook.

Participants who do not have the most up-to-date materials may obtain them from the Mendez Foundation at https://toogoodprograms.org/collections/too-good-for-drugs 

Prevention First will have training materials on hand for viewing only.

Read More
Classroom

Too Good For Drugs Middle School/High School Combined

Thursday, August 29, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

TGFD is a school-based prevention program designed to reduce the risk factors and enhance the protective factors related to alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among students. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the core curriculum while acquiring essential prevention education teaching strategies. The trainer will familiarize participants with the research, theory, and concepts behind the program and provide an opportunity for facilitation practice.

The Too Good for Drugs Program has a developmentally appropriate and separate curriculum for grades K-12. This training is designed to prepare facilitators to implement the Too Good for Drugs (TGFD) Program for either MS or HS grades successfully and with fidelity within a classroom setting. It is most applicable to those that facilitate TGFD in both the MS and the HS settings. However, it will meet the IDHS training requirements for those implementing TGFD in either middle school or high school.  

Too Good for Drugs Program manuals/materials are NOT included with this training program. Participants may bring all Teachers Manuals for the Too Good for Drugs Program for grades they facilitate or at the least participants should bring a minimum of one Teacher’s Manual as well as one Student Workbook.

Participants who do not have the most up-to-date materials may obtain them from the Mendez Foundation at https://toogoodprograms.org/collections/too-good-for-drugs 

Prevention First will have training materials on hand for viewing only.

Read More
Classroom

Establishing and Leading a Youth Advisory Committee

Thursday, September 05, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Springfield Office (Headquarters) - Springfield, IL
Description

In this training, participants will learn to establish and lead a youth advisory committee to support local substance use prevention efforts. Participants will learn best practices for engaging youth in advisory roles, establishing an advisory committee structure and strategies for recruitment and retention of youth advisors. Participants will also learn appropriate roles for youth committee members in substance use prevention activities.

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Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE CONDUCTING FOCUS GROUPS SERIES

Preparing for Successful Focus Groups

Tuesday, September 10 - Thursday, September 12, 2024
01:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Online
Description

During this interactive virtual classroom course participants will learn how to screen and recruit participants, develop effective questions to gain useful insights, moderate focus groups successfully and confidently, and analyze the results of focus groups to bolster programming. Introduction to Focus Groups must be completed prior to registering for this course.

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Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE ANALYZING AND SHARING ILLINOIS YOUTH SURVEY (IYS) DATA SERIES

Analyzing and Sharing the Illinois Youth Survey Data

Monday, September 30 - Tuesday, October 1, 2024
09:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Online
Description

During this virtual classroom training, participants will organize, examine, and summarize local IYS data to identify concerns, priorities and outcomes. Participants will identify methods for displaying and packaging data and strategies for sharing and analyzing data with schools and stakeholders. Additionally, participants will identify ways to incorporate data into local prevention strategies.

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Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE ILLINOIS INTRODUCTION TO SUBSTANCE USE PREVENTION (IISUP) SERIES

Illinois Introduction to Substance Use Prevention (IISUP) III: A Framework for Prevention

Tuesday, October 8 - Wednesday, October 9, 2024
01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Online
Description

This virtual classroom training introduces Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Substance Use Prevention Program (SUPP) providers to the prevention specialist’s role in service delivery. Participants will be introduced to strategies for program planning, capacity-building, implementation, and evaluation. Participants will also learn about their role in prevention, including an exploration of ethical issues related to their personal and professional conduct.

Read More
Virtual Classroom

CSUPS/SUPS Provider Fall Networking Events

Thursday, October 10, 2024
01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online
Description

This structured networking event will give SUPS and CSUPS providers the opportunity to come together to discuss prevention-related topics with each other. The event will incorporate Q&A discussions with the IDHS SUPR Bureau of Prevention Services (BPS), Prevention First and CPRD. Networking portion TBD.

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Virtual Classroom

CSUPS/SUPS Provider Fall Networking Events

Friday, October 11, 2024
09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Online
Description

This structured networking event will give SUPS and CSUPS providers the opportunity to come together to discuss prevention-related topics with each other. The event will incorporate Q&A discussions with the IDHS SUPR Bureau of Prevention Services (BPS), Prevention First and CPRD. Networking portion TBD.

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Classroom

Effective Group Facilitation

Wednesday, October 16 - Thursday, October 17, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

The ability to lead groups is essential to a wide variety of positions within the prevention field. This two-day training builds basic facilitation skills of individuals working with youth and/or adult groups. By the end of the training, participants will understand the stages of group development and the major issues associated with them, as well as how to identify and use interventions that will influence group behavior. This is an interactive training that will incorporate theory into discussions, group interaction, role playing and practice, and applied learning.

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Classroom

Effective Group Facilitation

Wednesday, October 16 - Thursday, October 17, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Springfield Office (Headquarters) - Springfield, IL
Description

The ability to lead groups is essential to a wide variety of positions within the prevention field. This two-day training builds basic facilitation skills of individuals working with youth and/or adult groups. By the end of the training, participants will understand the stages of group development and the major issues associated with them, as well as how to identify and use interventions that will influence group behavior. This is an interactive training that will incorporate theory into discussions, group interaction, role playing and practice, and applied learning.

Read More
Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGNS SERIES

Ten Steps for Planning and Implementing Communication Campaigns

Tuesday, October 29 - Thursday, October 31, 2024
09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Online
Description

During this interactive virtual classroom course, participants will learn about the steps and best practices involved in campaign planning and implementation.

All SUPS and CSUPS staff reporting hours for communication campaigns who have not previously completed Planning and Implementing Communication Campaigns are required to complete this course.

Read More
Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE ANALYZING AND SHARING ILLINOIS YOUTH SURVEY (IYS) DATA SERIES

Analyzing and Sharing the Illinois Youth Survey Data

Wednesday, November 6 - Thursday, November 7, 2024
01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Online
Description

During this virtual classroom training, participants will organize, examine, and summarize local IYS data to identify concerns, priorities and outcomes. Participants will identify methods for displaying and packaging data and strategies for sharing and analyzing data with schools and stakeholders. Additionally, participants will identify ways to incorporate data into local prevention strategies.

Read More
Classroom

Foundations of Youth Prevention Education - Classroom

Wednesday, November 13 - Thursday, November 14, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Chestnut Health Systems - Normal - Normal, IL
Description

Foundations of Youth Prevention Education prepares direct service providers to implement evidence-based Youth Prevention Education (YPE) programs. Participants will obtain a basic understanding of the components and best practices related to implementing any YPE model program. This training will increase participants’ knowledge and skills related to planning, managing, facilitating, and evaluating a Youth Prevention Education program.

Note: All SUPP providers reporting hours for youth prevention education are required to complete this course.

Virtual Classroom Training Note: Regular classroom time for this course is 12 hours. Since the classroom time for this modified course is only 9 hours, participants must complete 3 hours of individual work to obtain credit for the course. Prework will be assigned for each session.

Read More
Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTING COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGNS SERIES

Developing Materials for Locally-Designed Campaigns

Wednesday, November 20 - Thursday, November 21, 2024
01:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Online
Description

During this interactive virtual classroom course participants will learn about the steps and best practices involved in planning and implementing a locally designed communication campaign. Participants will become familiar with print ad principles and obtain tips, tools, and resources for designing and pilot testing materials.


All SUPS and CSUPS staff implementing locally-designed communication campaigns who have not previously completed Planning and Implementing Communication Campaigns are required to complete this course.

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Classroom

Establishing and Leading a Youth Advisory Committee

Wednesday, December 04, 2024
09:30 AM - 04:30 PM
Prevention First's Chicago Office (Branch Office) - Chicago, IL
Description

In this training, participants will learn to establish and lead a youth advisory committee to support local substance use prevention efforts. Participants will learn best practices for engaging youth in advisory roles, establishing an advisory committee structure and strategies for recruitment and retention of youth advisors. Participants will also learn appropriate roles for youth committee members in substance use prevention activities.

Read More
Virtual Classroom
THIS EVENT IS PART OF THE CONDUCTING FOCUS GROUPS SERIES

Preparing for Successful Focus Groups

Tuesday, December 10 - Thursday, December 12, 2024
09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Online
Description

During this interactive virtual classroom course participants will learn how to screen and recruit participants, develop effective questions to gain useful insights, moderate focus groups successfully and confidently, and analyze the results of focus groups to bolster programming. Introduction to Focus Groups must be completed prior to registering for this course.

Read More