Empowering students begins with engaging them in open and honest conversations. The FCD™ initiative focuses on critical thinking skills that enable young people to navigate complex social challenges. Through interactive presentations and discussions, we encourage students to examine the realities of teen substance misuse, understand its consequences, and make informed decisions that positively impact their lives and communities.
Building on over two decades of experience partnering with schools nationwide and around the world, our mission is to:
- Provide educational communities with guidance and training necessary to implement comprehensive, effective approaches to substance abuse prevention.
- Educate and Empower students, parents, teachers, and school administrators on the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol and other drugs.
- Promote awareness of substance misuse as a progressive issue that can have serious consequences if unaddressed.
- Teach individuals how to recognize early warning signs of substance misuse and intervene appropriately.
- Encourage and support the non-use of illicit substances during the crucial developmental years.
Eneref Institute is committed to fostering a supportive environment where open dialogue leads to lasting positive outcomes. Our specialists work collaboratively with schools to tailor programs that meet specific needs, implement evidence-based strategies, and provide ongoing support and resources. Together, we strive to build stronger communities by equipping young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions that positively impact their futures.
Research-Informed Approach
Our programs are built on the latest behavioral science, focusing on empowering students to make informed decisions through critical thinking and open dialogue. For over two decades, we’ve partnered with schools nationwide to create meaningful conversations that lead to lasting positive outcomes.
Our Comprehensive Program
- Student Engagement Sessions: Interactive workshops that encourage critical thinking and open discussion
- Faculty Development: Training for educators to facilitate ongoing meaningful dialogues
- Community Integration: Strategies to involve families to create a supportive environment
- Custom Solutions: Programs tailored to your school’s specific needs and culture
Key Program Components
Building Life Skills and Student Success Focus
- Critical decision-making
- Peer pressure navigation
- Healthy stress management
- Effective communication
- Academic performance support
- Mental health awareness
- Social-emotional learning
- Positive peer relationships
Collaborative Approach
Our specialists work alongside your school community.
- Assess your school’s specific needs
- Develop customized programming
- Implement evidence-based strategies
- Measure and evaluate outcomes
- Provide ongoing support and resources
Program Benefits
For Schools
- Enhanced school climate
- Improved student engagement
- Strengthened community trust
For Students
- Improved decision-making skills
- Enhanced self-awareness
- Stronger peer relationships
- Better academic outcomes
Ready to Create Positive Change?
Contact our team to learn how we can bring our proven program to your school community.
George Brown
FCD™ Program Director
Over the past 20 years, George Brown, MBA, has spoken at approximately 40 schools annually, reaching over 800 schools across all 50 U.S. states and international institutions throughout Asia, Africa, South America, and beyond. George served as a Senior Prevention Specialist with Betty Ford Foundation, delivering powerful substance abuse prevention programs to high school students worldwide.
Renowned for his ability to connect with students, George’s engaging style and meaningful approach make him a favorite among school administrators, who frequently request his return. His dedication has inspired countless students to embrace healthy, informed choices.
FAQs
- 1What drugs should parents be most concerned about?
- Nicotine: Chief cause of preventable death in the US, with over 400,000 annual deaths
- Alcohol: Most used drug by American youth; linked to top 3 causes of death for ages 15-24
- Marijuana: Most misunderstood drug; poses risks to lung health, mental health, and cognitive development
- 2What should I do if my child tells me their friend is using drugs?
- Validate their trust in confiding in you
- Present substance abuse as a health issue
- Help them be supportive while setting boundaries
- Guide them through appropriate intervention steps
- Ensure they have proper support systems
- 3Why do teens use drugs?
- School stress (73% of teens cite this as primary reason)
- Emotional reasons: independence, confidence, anxiety
- Physical reasons: relaxation, pain management, energy
- Social reasons: peer acceptance, overcoming shyness
- Intellectual reasons: curiosity, creativity, attention
- 4How do parents' attitudes and behaviors influence teen drug use?
- Role model appropriate alcohol use
- Demonstrate healthy stress management
- 5What are the specific risks of marijuana use for teenagers?
- Impairs learning and memory
- Affects lung health and immune system
- Can lead to mental health issues
- Interferes with adolescent development
- Often misperceived as harmless
- 6How can parents help their teens stay drug-free?
Parents can play a pivotal role in keeping their teens drug-free by focusing on three key strategies:
- Expressed Expectations and Consequences
- Clearly Communicate Rules and Expectations: Let your teen know your stance on drug and alcohol use explicitly.
- Discuss Values and Reasons: Explain the reasons behind your expectations to encourage understanding and acceptance.
- Parental Monitoring
- Stay Informed About Activities: Know where your teen is, who they’re with, and what they’re doing.
- Set Appropriate Boundaries: Implement curfews and check-ins to ensure safety.
- Be Involved in Their Lives: Attend their events and get to know their friends and their friends’ families.
- Preventive Education
- Educate About Risks: Provide factual information about the dangers of drug and alcohol use.
- Encourage Open Dialogue: Create an environment where your teen feels comfortable discussing these topics.
- Utilize Resources: Leverage school programs or community resources for additional support.
- Expressed Expectations and Consequences
- 7How should I respond if my child asks about my past drug use?
- Consider the question behind the question
- Be honest while emphasizing lessons learned
- Share appropriate cautionary tales
- Focus on current knowledge about risks
- 8How can I protect my child from prescription drug abuse?
- Safeguard medications at home
- Monitor quantities and track refills
- Properly dispose of unused medicines
- Communicate risks to teens
- Coordinate with other households