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KNOW THE TRUTH 

YOUTH PEER SUPPORT SERVICES 

ONLY ABOUT1 in 10 PEOPLE WITH A SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER RECEIVE ANY TYPE OF SPECIALTY TREATMENT ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON DRUG ABUSE.

The Know the Truth™ Prevention Program (KTT) is addressing the need for increased chemical health support by partnering with schools across Minnesota to provide Youth Peer Support Services (YPSS) in addition to a full continuum of prevention services.

 

Know the Truth Prevention Program partners with Minnesota schools to provide Youth Peer Support Services, which includes weekly in-person and virtual group sessions led by a trained Peer Recovery Specialist. The program uses evidence-informed curriculum and a relatable, peer-to-peer approach to provide a space for students to openly discuss substance-related issues and topics.

The Peer Recovery Specialist acts as a liaison between students, educators, and other support services to promote overall student wellness. Referrals are made by designated school contacts, and the program also builds referrals through flyers, videos, staff meetings, and classroom presentations.

Once the partnership is fully established, Know the Truth will present a plan of group implementation and work with school staff directly to create a schedule and processes. 

 

 

Program Implementation 

Service Funding Sources: 

  • Recovery Community Organization (RCO) 

  • Grant Funding 

  • Contract with Partner District 

 

Once the partnership is fully established, Know the Truth will present a plan of group implementation and work with school staff directly to create a schedule and processes. 

Group Policies 

  • Parent Notification Letter 

  • Data Privacy 

  • Mandated Reporting 

  • Referral for Additional Support 

Criteria for Receiving Services 

  • Have a referral from designated main school contact 

  • Express personal interest in support 

  • Honor confidentiality of other group members 

  • Engage in respectful discussions with other group members 

Referral Process 

Once a student is referred to a group, Know the Truth will use a school pass or email the student directly to schedule a time to introduce the groups, share their personal story (self-disclosure is used for relatability, only what is necessary will be shared). From here, the student decides if they would like to be a part of the group on-going and will be given direction on next steps. 

Communication and Referral to Additional Support 

Know the Truth will work closely with the referring contact regarding the student’s progress and attendance in groups. In the event that the student needs additional support services, Know the Truth will discuss with the student, the referring contact, and parents on a case-by-case basis. 

Building Referrals 

Know the Truth creates student flyers, videos, attends staff meetings and utilizes classroom presentations as a great way to build relationships and increase group attendance. 

 

If your school is interested in utilizing Know the Truth’s Youth Peer Support Services please reach out to Sbrown@mnpra.org.

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