Ep. 77 – How an App Helps Youth Stay Drug Free: Andy Duran, LEAD

Ep. 77 – How an App Helps Youth Stay Drug Free: Andy Duran, LEAD

What happens when a community comes together to tackle drug prevention head-on? In this episode of the Cover 2 Resources Podcast, Greg McNeil sits down with Andy Duran, the Executive Director of LEAD (Linking Efforts Against Drugs), to discuss their innovative and community-focused approach to keeping youth drug-free. Andy opens up about the heartbreaking event that ignited his passion for drug prevention and how it shaped LEAD's mission.

He highlights the critical role of licensed mental health professionals in their programs and the importance of community stakeholders in making a difference. LEAD isn't just about awareness; it's about action. Andy shares how their programs foster a sense of connectedness within the community, collect valuable data on student struggles, and address substance use issues head-on. You'll also hear about the Gloucester Police Department's pre-arrest law enforcement assisted diversion program, a unique initiative that complements LEAD's efforts.

By the end of this episode, you'll gain a deeper understanding of why acknowledging substance use as a real issue is crucial and how community-driven solutions can pave the way for a drug-free future.