Pendleton County has faced challenges of alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) use, youth violence and environmental contributors to these problems.  The Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent is a leader on the Champions for Drug Free Pendleton County, a coalition started in 2003.  The FCS agent has secured multiple grants of over $357,500 that enabled Extension and community to conduct programs and activities that have reduced alcohol and tobacco use among Pendleton County youth.Kentucky Department of Education PRIDE and KIP surveys show a decline in tobacco (51.5% to 20.7%) and alcohol (39.7% to 23.4%) use among high school students in Pendleton County between 2004 and 2016.   The coalition has developed educational curriculum, sponsored programs in the schools for youth and families, and conducted teacher trainings, held town hall meetings, sticker shock, block parties, and prescription disposal events.The Family and Consumer Science agent created “The Adolescent Brain” curriculum presented to middle school youth and all student athletes, organized and conducted the Recipe for Life program for 5^th grade youth, promoted Family Dinners, and sponsored health and fitness programs. 

Actions focused on the “40 Developments Asset” to help young children grow into health, caring and responsible adults.  As a result of the community-coordinated efforts, Pendleton County has decreased use of tobacco and alcohol according to the PRIDE and KIP surveys conducted by the Kentucky Department of Education.  Middle school youth have improved attitude and behaviors desired according to the Search Institute survey with 53% having attained 21 or more of the 40 assets in 2017 compared to 44% in 2010. 

Recipe for Life teaches life skills to 5^th graders, addressing all 40 of the assets for positive youth development. 

High School students, local business owners, local law enforcement, Extension and Champion members have been doing Sticker Shock since 2010.  This awareness campaign reminds youth and adults that it is illegal to purchase for a minor.  Bright color stickers label all alcohol and tobacco products within our community during the month of May each year!