The Partnership at Drugfree.org Becomes the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids

NEW YORK, June 17, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Partnership at Drugfree.org announced today that it has changed its name to the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. The name and a newly expanded website reflect the nonprofit's ongoing commitment to reducing teen substance abuse and supporting families impacted by addiction.

The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids retains its URL, drugfree.org, but features new communities for sharing and support, along with improved usability and search functions.

The organization has continually evolved and grown since its founding in 1986, from a prevention-focused advertising campaign to the go-to resource for families who are looking for guidance and support as they navigate the world of adolescent drug use and drinking.

"Our name and expansive resources on the web more directly, and more immediately, communicate why we exist, and that's very precisely to reduce teen substance use and support families impacted by addiction," said Steve Pasierb, President and CEO of the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids. "Ninety percent of all adult addictions start with use in the teenage years, so our organization is relentlessly focused on where problems start, on protecting the health of millions of young people and on providing meaningful solutions for families. Through our toll-free telephone helpline (1-855-DRUGFREE), our research-based programs, deep resources on the web and our communications in traditional and digital media, we are redoubling our commitment to being the place where families find answers."

Expanded and Redesigned Website at Drugfree.org

Families can access free, science-based resources at drugfree.org, including interactive tools, informative videos, step-by-step guides, blogs and live chats, comprehensive e-books on subjects like intervening when a child is using drugs or addressing medication-assisted treatment, as well as an expansive drug guide with photos, slang terms and effects.  The site is backed by enhanced navigation, where families can easily "get information," "get help" and "get involved."  

Drugfree.org also features:

• "Stories of Hope" and "Memorials" –  where families can celebrate sobriety, share stories of recovery from addiction or pay special tribute to loved ones they lost to substance abuse
• "Online Community" – a robust online community where people can share and participate in forums and live chats with other parents and families who have direct experience with teen substance abuse and addiction
• "Get Help" – With step-by-step videos and expert advice, this section is a one-stop destination for anyone who wants to get help for a child or loved one who is struggling with drugs or alcohol

"The new Partnership for Drug-Free Kids website is an invaluable resource for parents and families  – one that will educate them about all aspects of addiction, including prevention, finding appropriate treatment and how to cope with their loved one's problem," said Dean Dauphinais, a father who has used the resources on drugfree.org. "The new site will also provide families with a unique forum for discussing issues with people with first-hand experience with the issue in their own families, which is such an important piece of the puzzle that is addiction."

"We are proud to say that since our inception the Partnership has played a vital role in contributing to incredible successes on this important health issue," said Pasierb. "We launched one of the most successful anti-inhalants campaigns in history and created the first ever national action movement to help prevent half a million teens from abusing prescription and over-the-counter medicine by 2017. Overall drug use in the U.S. has been reduced by 30 percent, Ecstasy use by half and cocaine use by more than 70 percent – but our most critical work to support parents and families is yet to come."

Please visit drugfree.org for more information.

About the Partnership for Drug-Free Kids
The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids is dedicated to reducing teen substance abuse and supporting families impacted by addiction. We develop public education campaigns that drive awareness of teen substance abuse, and lead teen-targeted efforts that inspire young people to make positive decisions to stay healthy and avoid drugs and alcohol. On our website, drugfree.org, and through our toll-free helpline (1-855-DRUGFREE), we provide families with direct support and guidance to help them address teen substance abuse. Finally, we build healthy communities, advocating for great access to adolescent treatment and funding for youth prevention programs. As a national nonprofit, we depend on donations from individuals, corporations, foundations and the public sector and are thankful to SAG-AFTRA and the advertising and media industries for their ongoing generosity.

On the Web: drugfree.org

SOURCE The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids