YSS

90% of people who struggle with substance use begin using substances as teens.

That makes prevention and early intervention especially important.

The goal isn't to wait until substance use becomes a bigger problem. It's to recognize risk factors, build protective factors and give young people the support they need early.

Because what we do before it becomes more can shape what happens next.

Learn more about prevention, early intervention and resources for Iowa families and communities at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

National Recovery Month reminds us of something important: Recovery is possible.

Behind every recovery journey is a person, a story and a community of people who chose to keep moving forward.

And the path doesn't have to begin with a crisis. Prevention, early intervention, honest conversations and access to support can all be part of that journey.

As September comes to a close, let's keep making space for the conversations that can help someone take their next step.

Find prevention, screening and training resources through Before It Becomes More: https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Prevention starts with being informed.

Parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, public safety officials and community leaders all have a role to play in recognizing risk factors and supporting young people early.

YSS is providing resources and training opportunities to help Iowans feel more prepared to have these important conversations.

Explore the campaign, access prevention resources and learn how you can get involved at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Reggie’s Sleepout is just TWO WEEKS away!

Register. Donate. Volunteer. Every way you get involved helps support at-risk and homeless youth in our community.

Join us: https://givebutter.com/RSO2026

For someone struggling with substance use, asking for help can feel like a huge step.

But recovery begins when someone knows they don't have to navigate it alone.

Creating safe spaces to ask questions, talk openly and connect with support can make taking that first step a little easier.

YSS offers resources to help young people and the adults supporting them take action Before It Becomes More.

Find support and prevention resources: https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Your involvement can make a lasting difference.

The support of a community can make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth, individuals, and families across Iowa. When you choose to show up, give your time, share your support, or simply help spread the word, you become part of something bigger.

See how you can make an impact with YSS today: https://yss.org/get-involved/

It's about helping young people build resilience, develop healthy habits, navigate mental health challenges, find trusted support and make informed choices.

Prevention happens in homes, schools, healthcare settings and communities across Iowa.

When we strengthen the people around young Iowans, we strengthen Iowa.

Find tools and resources to help strengthen Iowa's youth at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

Building connections. Encouraging healthy habits. Making time to listen to our youth. Talking openly about substance use.

These small, everyday actions can help young people navigate challenges before they escalate.

Across Iowa, we're working to move the conversation upstream and strengthen the people, families and communities that help young Iowans thrive.

Explore prevention resources and learn how you can help at https://yss.org/before-it-becomes-more/

At 14, Ellie was introduced to AMP, a YSS program empowering young people in foster care.

For the first time, she found people who understood her experience.

Through AMP, Ellie built relationships, learned to advocate for herself and found her voice.

“I’ve been able to be more open with what I’ve gone through and not be ashamed.”

Today, she uses that voice to help others, too.

Read Ellie’s story: yss.org/ellies-story/

Building better pathways to support 🤝

When a crisis happens, the right response can make a meaningful difference.

MPACT is one example of what’s possible when community partners bring their expertise together. By working across systems, YSS and the Marshalltown Police Department are creating more opportunities for connection, support and positive outcomes.

This National Co-Responder & Crisis Responder Week, we're recognizing the partnerships that help communitiesrespond with compassion and care.

Want to learn more about MPACT? https://yss.org/about-us/locations/yss-of-marshall-county/