Youth Programs

Early Mental Health (ECMH)

PHP’s ECMH counselor works with students in the school setting who were referred for emotional, social and behavioral issues by the pre-school, the Elementary schools or parents.  The counselor sees the parents and the child in the home to help parents learn effective parenting techniques, which is especially critical for new immigrant and first generation Latino families. A coordinated behavioral plan, reinforced by the teacher and the parents, is then established. This program offers the only counseling available to low-income families and the only option for Spanish speaking parents.

Buellton Youth Program

In 2008, PHP forged a partnership with the Buellton School District and Buellton Recreation Department to start and after school program specifically designed for middle school students. Twelve –fifteen sixth-eight graders attend the “Seeking Success” program each day at Jonata School.  The program focuses on academic improvement and features computer education, leadership training and recreational activities to supplement homework assistance and tutorials. Students are accepted upon referral from school faculty and staff and approval of parents.  Parents and students sign contracts detailing attendance, behavior, participation, and academic improvement standards.

Student Action Prevention Network (SPAN)

This newly developed alcohol and drug prevention program is designed for 7^th and 8^th grade students and is a partnership with the Buellton and College School Districts.  A PHP Prevention Specialist teaches a life skills curriculum, is implementing a Peer to Peer Mediation program and Free Clubs on campus and is conducting Parenting Workshop series.  This four part approach to prevention is designed to equip students and parents with the knowledge and tools necessary to avoid the hazards associated with so that students are successful in school.

Mentoring

PHP staff at Santa Ynez and Refugio High Schools monitor the progress towards graduation of 30 “at risk” students. The grades and credits of these students are reviewed on a regular basis and the mentor offers career guidance, homework assistance, coaching, role modeling, and access to PHP basic needs and support services.

 Santa Ynez Valley Youth Coalition

PHP has received a 5-year federal grant to reduce alcohol, tobacco and other drug (ATOD) use by youth.  The grant is based upon a strategic plan, annually updated, developed by a coalition of community leaders that meets monthly. PHP staff, together with Coalition members, is implementing the plan directed at increasing barriers to youth access of alcohol and other drugs and changing community norms around the acceptance of underage substance abuse.  Community members interested in obtaining additional information, including local usage statistics, are encouraged to visit the Coalition’s website at www.syvdrugfree.org.