The Creating Lasting Connections program is geared toward youth that are at risk of drug abuse or addiction. The program targets adolescents 12 - 17 years of age who live within the city of Cincinnati's Empowerment Zone. The program provides prevention, education, and intervention services which address substance abuse.
Empowerment Zone Neighborhoods
 | Avondale, |
| Fairview/Clifton Heights, |
| Corryville, |
| Evanston, |
| Mt. Auburn, |
| Over-the-Rhine, |
| Queensgate, |
| Walnut Hills, and |
| West End |
| To reduce and prevent substance abuse among youth by decreasing or remediating those factors in the city of Cincinnati that work to increase the risk of substance abuse |
| Enhance those factors that minimize the risk of substance abuse among youth. |
| To establish and strengthen collaboration among neighborhood residents, private non-profit agencies, and Federal, State, and local governments to support the efforts of the Greater Cincinnati Health Coalition to prevent and reduce substance abuse. |
Risk factors associated with substance abuse/use include but are not limited to:
| Early age of Onset |
| Positive Attitude About Use |
| Low Self Image |
| Signs of Depression |
| Genetic Predisposition |
| Abusive Home Environment |
| Social Skills Deficits |
| Impulsivity and Rebelliousness |
| Hostility and Aggression |
| Learning Difficulties |
| Behavioral Problems |