Aldersgate’s Substance Abuse Alternatives Program (SAA) is a unique and powerful educational opportunity for teens cited with first-time underage drinking offenses.  A structured, curriculum-based program, SAA presents alcohol and drug information in a relaxed peer-group environment, which enables teens and young adults to best explore personal choices and other issues related to drinking and substance abuse. SAA classes also address important topics such as decision-making skills, personal values, responsibility, and trust issues.

SAA’s goals include providing meaningful substance abuse education with clear, consistent messages, based on factual information, about the dangers of substance abuse and its legal and physical consequences.

The curriculum is specifically designed for teenagers and young adults.  The current format includes the following topics: Legal Issues & Consequences, Effects of Alcohol on Human Physiology, Effects of Drugs Other than Alcohol, Progression of Substance Abuse, Healthy Coping & Problem-Solving Skills, AIDS and other STD Education, and The Effect of Substance Abuse on Families.  One parent session is mandatory for participating youth who were under 18 when cited for an offense.  

Participants get to explore and consider their value systems, lifestyle choices, and ways to promote self-awareness and deal with stress.  SAA classes also offer an opportunity for participants to develop a positive group identity and to share their experiences openly.   Outside guest speakers supplement learned education with personal anecdotes and meaningful, real-world information.

District justices, police officers, youth aid panel caseworkers, parents, and school officials all refer clients to this program; Aldersgate maintains regular contact with all referral sources regarding each participant's program compliance and course completion.

SAA has over 25 years of past success, evidenced by both consistent annual increases in the number of participant referrals and the growing level of community support.  Each year, new community referral sources suggest Aldersgate’s SAA program as a worthwhile intervention for area youth.