The Prevention Empowerment Partnership is a part of the Center of Excellence at the Marshall University Research Corporation.
The West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (WV ABCA) received funding from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) to host its 4th annual Prevention, Enforcement, Education, and Policy (PEEP) statewide conference. Representatives from the WV ABCA, Community Connections Inc., and the Bureau for Behavioral Health’s Office of Children, Youth, and Families serve on the conference’s planning committee, which created the POP award to highlight evidence-based, impactful programs making a significant difference in local communities.
Angela Saunders is the director of the Prevention Empowerment Partnership.
“I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the dedicated coalition, staff, and young leaders who tirelessly empower youth in Cabell County and beyond to live drug-free lives,” Saunders said.
PEP’s commitment to addressing alcohol and substance use has been recognized as a key element of its success, as the organization continues to make a meaningful impact in its community. This recognition underscores PEP’s dedication to fostering healthier, safer environments.
“At PEP, we believe that our youth are the heartbeat of our coalition; we don’t merely provide prevention services, but actively invite them to lead and collaborate in these efforts,” Saunders said. “By engaging young people through peer-led programming, mentoring and real-life experiences, we are not just training tomorrow’s leaders—we are empowering them to lead today.”
PEP has been invited to participate in the 2024 PEEP conference, scheduled for Oct. 31 at Canaan Valley Resort and Conference Center. As part of the honor, PEP will join a prevention panel session recognizing one winner from each of the six DHHR regions.
The Prevention Empowerment Partnership (PEP), is a collaborative coalition of community-based members and organizations that partners to increase access to comprehensive prevention services for youth and families in Cabell County and surrounding areas. The partnership empowers youth to affect positive change in their communities and prioritize prevention throughout their lives.