Building a Safer Future:

Alcohol Prevention and Why It Matters

Alcohol misuse affects individuals, families, and communities—but with the right tools, we can reduce harm and support healthier choices. At Butler First Step™, we believe prevention starts with education, awareness, and access to resources. Learn to recognize early warning signs, have difficult conversations, and find support in Butler County below.

Butler First Step:

Programs That Make a Difference

Explore Butler First Step’s full range of prevention programs designed to support individuals, families, and communities. Whether you’re seeking education, resources, or ways to get involved, our programs offer something for everyone.

Destigmatizing Alcohol Prevention

It’s Everyone’s Responsibility:

Prevention isn’t just for schools or healthcare providers. Parents, coworkers, coaches, and friends all play a role in creating safer environments and setting positive examples.

It’s Not Just “Problem Drinking”:

Binge drinking, underage use, and mixing alcohol with medications are all common forms of risky behavior that deserve attention—before they become emergencies.

You’re Not Alone:

Thousands of people in Pennsylvania are working to prevent alcohol misuse through small, everyday actions—conversations, boundary-setting, and community engagement.

Alcohol Affects More Than You Think

Alcohol Misuse Affects All Ages:

From underage drinking to adult dependency, alcohol misuse can impact anyone—regardless of background or lifestyle. Prevention starts with awareness and access to honest information.

There’s No Shame in Speaking Up:

Addressing alcohol use doesn’t mean labeling someone an alcoholic—it means caring enough to ask questions, offer support, and connect people with help.

Early Action Makes a Difference:

Recognizing the signs of risky use early can help prevent accidents, injuries, and long-term health effects. Education and conversation are powerful tools.

Support Systems Save Lives:

Whether it's a friend, family member, teacher, or coach—having someone to talk to can make all the difference in preventing or addressing alcohol misuse.

Resources We Use and Recommend:

Alcohol Prevention Resources

Explore a variety of tools, educational materials, and local support services designed to help individuals and communities prevent alcohol misuse. These resources provide guidance on recognizing risks, promoting healthy choices, and accessing help when needed.

For Communities and Schools:

Our Alcohol Prevention Programs

Our alcohol prevention programs focus on education, early intervention, and community support. We work with schools, parents, and local organizations to reduce underage drinking, raise awareness about the risks of alcohol misuse, and promote healthy decision-making at every age.

D.A.R.E. Keepin' It Real

The Butler County Sheriff’s Office has a trained team of deputies who implement the DARE Program in 5^th grade classrooms. This 10-session program teaches skills such as self-awareness and management, responsible decision making, understanding others, relationship and communication skills and handling responsibilities and challenges.

All Stars Program

All Stars is a continuum of prevention programs designed to delay the onset of risky behaviors in adolescents and helps students identify positive ideals and future aspirations. Discussions within the classroom and homework assignments completed with parents/guardians help establish positive peer group norms and diminish the pressure to engage in risky behaviors. Students commit to personal standards of behavior and present their commitments to fellow students during the final sessions. The All Stars Core program promotes bonding with family, school, and community and provides students the opportunity to think deeply about their future. This 13-session program is implemented in 6^th grade classrooms.

Need help launching a social norms campaign at your school or organization? We can provide technical assistance to guide you through every step—from planning to implementation.

Help Is Nearby:

Where to Find Alcohol Prevention Resources in Butler County

Butler First Step

Butler County Drug & Alcohol Program

Butler County’s main public source for prevention, treatment assessment, case management, and referrals—all services are free and available to residents. Location: 124 W Diamond St, Butler, PA 16003 Phone: 724‑284‑5114

Butler County Opioid Overdose Coalition (BCOOC)

A coalition working since 2016 to combat opioid-related overdoses by distributing naloxone and increasing public awareness.

Butler Memorial Hospital – Drug & Alcohol Treatment

Provides 24/7 support through its regional recovery center, including inpatient and outpatient treatment, counseling, and a helpline. Phone: 1‑800‑831‑2468 Location: One Hospital Way, Butler, PA 16001

Alcohol Prevention:

Your Questions Answered

What is alcohol prevention?

It includes strategies to delay the onset of drinking, reduce risky use, and minimize the impact of alcohol-related harm in families and communities.

How can I talk to someone about their drinking?

Use a calm, nonjudgmental tone. Focus on specific behaviors or concerns, and offer to help them find support if they’re open to it.

Is it okay to let teens drink at home “safely”?

No. Studies show that early exposure—even supervised—can increase the risk of future misuse. The best prevention is setting clear rules and expectations in your home regarding underage alcohol use.

Where can I get help for someone who may be misusing alcohol?

Start with Butler First Step. We can guide you toward local programs, support groups, and treatment options that meet your needs.

What are the signs of alcohol misuse?

Changes in behavior, mood swings, frequent hangovers, declining performance at work or school, secretive behavior, and drinking to cope with stress can all be signs. If you’re concerned, it’s okay to ask questions and seek support.

Local Support in
Butler County

Butler First Step™ is committed to providing families with access to local resources for prevention, treatment, and recovery.

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