Access to Substance Abuse Treatment for Youth in Orange County

Phoenix Academy of Orange County's project ensures that a greater number of Orange County adolescents will have the opportunity to receive the substance abuse and mental health treatment that they desperately need. The program's goals are to: (1) broaden outreach services to increase access to treatment for members of the local community; (2) improve access to treatment for under-privileged Hispanic youth and families by providing Spanish language services; (3) strengthen the admissions program through enhanced client and family engagement approaches; and (4) extend the availability of culturally competent post-treatment alternatives, such as the establishment of outpatient services, aftercare, and linkages to social service agencies. Phoenix Academy's goal is to impact at least 80 youths admitted to the residential program over the grant period. This goal will be achieved by targeted multi-cultural outreach to families and youth (30 families) with enhanced program resources, bilingual services, engaging materials and properly trained staff. Innovative outreach material will be developed and distributed for outpatient services (800 pieces for youth and 800 for parents). The Speakers Bureau will provide 20 community presentations and reach at least 800 people. Multi-family counseling groups, activities, and parenting classes will be offered to expand family involvement in the youth's recovery process. NCA/NCF