Abstract

Introduction  

The NSU Department of Population Health developed the South Florida Community Coalition, an organization with 7 youth-serving organizations in Broward, Palm Beach and Miami Dade counties. The purpose of the coalition is to increase awareness on substance abuse through campaigns and 8 curricular modules for the distribution to youth-serving professionals, parents and teens. The curriculum is targeted for LGBTQ+ and minority teens, who experience higher rates of substance abuse than their peers. 1,2 

Methods  

The modules focus on education about the effects of drug classes, including opioids, vaping, and stimulants. They also include strategies for reducing drug use, like refusal skills and stress-coping mechanisms. The modules contain informational videos supplemented by case-based learning and self-assessment quizzes. Deployment will begin virtually in September 2021 with sessions facilitated by members of the research team. 

Outcomes  

The target number of youth participating in the curriculum in 2021 is 1140. We will administer pre-surveys before curriculum implementation and post-surveys after each module to assess knowledge and attitude changes regarding substance abuse. These surveys will additionally measure differences recorded between student demographics, including age and gender. We will assess the efficacy of each module by collecting post-implementation feedback to gauge student engagement and enjoyment of the curriculum. 

Discussion 

This curriculum has the potential to impact youth within the youth-serving organizations currently partnered with us, and to expand among additional programs in the tri-county area. We will modify the modules based on feedback and continue to disseminate education that aims to reduce substance abuse among youth.