Kentucky ranks 46^th in the nation in regards to teen smoking and tobacco use, 30^th in the nation in regards to teen alcohol use, and has the highest lung cancer incidence rate in the nation.  Preventing illicit substance use among adolescents in Kentucky is a public health priority. However, evidence-based programs and policies have not been widely implemented across Kentucky.  Identifying, securing, and promoting educational resources to respond to substance use is a priority of the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service.

The World Health Organization named Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14 (SFP 10-14) the #1 prevention program out of 6,000 programs analyzed for long-term effects on substance use and misuse.  Through state and federal grants, the University of Kentucky Family and Consumer Sciences Extension, along with community partners are providing the Strengthening Families Program for Parents and Youth 10-14 to Kentucky youth and families across the Commonwealth.

Over the past year, UK FCS Extension has trained 5 Extension staff and 8 community partners to deliver the program in 2 Kentucky counties (Allen County and Breckinridge County). Kentucky Extension staff have devoted over 100 hours of time to train for and implement this program across the state. Thus far, 29 students and parents either have completed or are currently enrolled in the SFP 10-14 program.   Looking ahead, all counties with trained staff have plans to continue to implement the program next school year.