To prevent behavioral health problems before they ever start, education and access to resources are key. Through evidence-based strategies and programs, the Prevention Team delivers tools, resources, and knowledge people need to be aware of substance abuse and what steps are needed to make lasting changes in our community. 

Outreach & Education

The Prevention Team uses public education and community outreach events to bring awareness about alcohol and drug misuse and abuse to students, parents, educators, and professionals. 

Community-Based Environmental Risk Reduction

Kern County is home to very diverse communities, each with unique needs. Through mini grants, KernBHRS works with community members throughout the County to identify issues, including youth alcohol access and availability and develop solutions to address them. 

Drug Free Kern

Drug Free Kern (DFK) is made up of local agencies, businesses, treatment providers, and community members. It aims to reduce the impact of substance and alcohol misuse and abuse within the community through evidence-based prevention, early intervention and suppression strategies. 

One of its programs, KernRxReturn, provides communities with free, safe receptacles to dispose of unused, unwanted or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications. 

Kern County Friday Night Live Partnership

The Kern County Friday Night Live Partnership collaborates with schools, school districts, and other agencies to provide programs to the widest range of youth possible. The Friday Night Live Roadmap allows local students to create and implement their own prevention project based on concerns on their campus. 

For more information, contact the KernBHRS Prevention Team at (661) 868-8043 or by email at Prevention@KernBHRS.org. 

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
They can be downloaded by clicking on the icons below.

Acrobat Reader Windows Media Player Word Viewer Excel Viewer PowerPoint Viewer