The MISSION of Sun Street Centers is to prevent alcohol and drug addiction by offering education, prevention, treatment, and recovery services to individuals and families at all income levels.
Most people who misuse substances don’t acknowledge they have a problem, but 98 percent damage their relationships; 93 percent have financial problems; and 70 percent face the criminal justice system. You can help stop this before it begins. The Safe Teens Empowerment Project (STEPS) works in 46 schools and at community events throughout Monterey County to prevent unsafe alcohol and drug use. Last year, STEPS served 7,317 Monterey County residents. Along with a broad education on the risks of using alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, teens take on leadership roles producing presentations such as the Overdose Awareness Symposium. Projects build social capital and confidence that prepares them to resist high-risk behavior. They can log community service hours and become paid leaders while actively working on projects where they learn Leadership, Communication, Time Management, Teamwork, Collaboration, Organization, Advocacy, Active Listening, Design, Research, Evaluation, and Public Speaking. Thank you for considering our request.
Sun Street Centers' Prevention Program serves all of Monterey County
I’ve been in STEPS for three years and a way that STEPS impacted my life in a positive way, is that I’ve got out of my comfort zone by being able to present in front of a big audience. And I’ve also got an opportunity to make new connections in my community.
- Jocelyn Cardenas, STEPS Student Youth Leader, Soledad
