The ABCs of Youth Substance Use
The ABCs of Youth
Substance Use
The ABCs of Youth Substance Use is an initiative promoting evidence-based approaches to youth substance-use education in K–12 schools.
Autonomy, Belonging, and Competencies are key protective factors that support youth wellbeing and help prevent, delay, and reduce substance-related harms.
About Us
This initiative is proudly offered by Bunyaad Public Affairs, an award-winning public affairs firm dedicated to building healthy, inclusive communities. Our efforts to support positive youth development include:
-
Partnering with researchers and practitioners to develop national standards for substance-use education and intervention in schools through Wellstream for Schools.
-
Supporting municipalities and local First Nations communities in creating youth-friendly spaces and improving access to high-quality, municipally-funded youth services.
-
Advising public health leaders and organizations on school health strategies.
The ABCs of Youth Substance Use team fosters a student-centered, dialogic culture. We work to destigmatize substance use by meeting people where they are, recognizing sector-specific expertise, and addressing the unique needs of students and school professionals across Canada.
At our core, we believe student wellbeing is everyone’s responsibility, and that preventing and reducing substance-related harms is critical.
Funding
Resources developed until March 2025 were funded by the BC Ministry of Health, with support and input from the BC Ministry of Education and Child Care.
​From April 2025 onwards, the development and maintenance of this resource hub and ABCs activities are funded by Bunyaad Public Affairs.