Alcove Inc

Programs: The organization operated and maintained a short-term residential shelter for troubled youth the alcove, inc. Seeks to serve youth not only in the shelter, but also in the community. The following paragraphs describe our community-based programs. Through the life skills training program, the alcove provides services to youth in local (newton and walton counties) elementary, middle, and high schools, helping them to develop the skills, attitudes, and knowledge bases necessary to resist drug use and develop positive coping skills. These groups occur during school hours, and our participants are either recommended by counselors or parent referrals. Life skills groups usually consist of about 6-8 individuals and run for a duration of about 10-12 weeks. These groups, generally speaking, begin at the beginning of a semester and come to a close at the end of a semester. In the all stars program, middle school youth are engaged in the process of setting goals for the future and recognizing how drugs, alcohol, and high-risk behaviors do not fit with their future aspirations. This program involves many take home activities that are to be worked through with parents or other adult figures, promoting bonding between youth and positive adults. In conjunction with the youth development coordinator at the walton county partnership for children, families and youth, the alcove inc. Assists the youth advocacy board, comprised of eighth grade and high school students of walton county. These youth are trained as leaders for their peers in promoting healthy lifestyle choices, learning leadership, communication and mediation skills, and promoting fun drug-free alternatives. Some of these youth also engage the residents at the alcove in a "buddy system," in which they will be spending time in the shelter, hanging out with the residents, and serving as positive peer support. Further, the alcove, inc. Serves walton county through community education prevention initiatives such as red ribbon week and other community education events related to issues surrounding youth and families.