Operation Snowball

Operation Snowball is an international alcohol, tobacco and other drug-use prevention program focusing on leadership development to empower youth to lead drug-free lives. The name originates from the idea that having a positive impact on an individual can "snowball" into positive results for an entire community and beyond.

Funded in part by the Illinois Department of Human Services, and governed by an elected board of directors, Operation Snowball is founded on the belief that youth and adults can make responsible and healthy life decisions when provided with factual information and an opportunity to develop self-motivation and responsibility.

The program provides opportunities for youths and adults to work together cooperatively to plan, implement and evaluate a community-based alcohol and drug prevention program.

Operation Snowball, Inc. believes that the use of alcohol and other drugs during the teen years can be devastating to physical, social and emotional growth. Through the Operation Snowball program, youth learn that it is okay to say no to alcohol and drugs. Students also learn that they are not alone in their decision to stay drug and alcohol free.

Operation Snowball strives to create an environment that actively supports the decision to abstain from alcohol and drug use. Operation Snowball also believes that the most effective and comprehensive prevention programs must be undertaken by children and adults in partnership with one another.

Operation Snowball also focuses on aiding teens with issues that may arise in their relationships with friends or family. Snowball offers a support system that teaches teens coping skills to help them resolve interpersonal problems.

Operation Snowball is a comprehensive program that:

Operation Snowball is a prevention program and does not provide individual or group treatment. (Operation Snowball does require that youth choosing to serve in active leadership roles make a commitment to lead a drug and alcohol free lifestyle.)

Operation Snowball has two types of chapters - school-based and community-based. Operation Snowball includes the following program models:

Each program model focuses on the issues resulting from alcohol and other drug use and abuse in a manner appropriate for each age group. The concept of cross-age teaching and peer helping is an integral part of the Operation Snowball program. The programs follow the same principles and guidelines that may include the following:

Through the development of leadership skills, Operation Snowball shall be a youth and adult partnership, providing awareness and prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use, while encouraging healthy decision-making in an active community of caring."

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