Huntington Times

The Prevention Empowerment Partnership (PEP) has been honored with the "Program of Prominence" award for its significant contributions to communities across the state. This recognition is part of the second annual POP awards, which celebrate impactful programs.

PEP operates under the Center of Excellence at the Marshall University Research Corporation. The West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (WV ABCA), with funding from the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA), hosted its fourth annual Prevention, Enforcement, Education, and Policy (PEEP) statewide conference. The conference's planning committee includes representatives from WV ABCA, Community Connections Inc., and the Bureau for Behavioral Health’s Office of Children, Youth, and Families. They established the POP award to highlight programs that make a substantial difference locally.

Angela Saunders, director of PEP, expressed her gratitude: “I am honored to accept this award on behalf of the dedicated coalition, staff, and young leaders who tirelessly empower youth in Cabell County and beyond to live drug-free lives.”

The organization’s focus on addressing alcohol and substance use is a key factor in its success. PEP's efforts are aimed at creating healthier environments within their community.

“At PEP, we believe that our youth are the heartbeat of our coalition; we don’t merely provide prevention services but actively invite them to lead and collaborate in these efforts,” Saunders stated. “By engaging young people through peer-led programming, mentoring and real-life experiences, we are not just training tomorrow’s leaders—we are empowering them to lead today.”

As an honoree, PEP will participate in the 2024 PEEP conference scheduled for October 31 at Canaan Valley Resort and Conference Center. During this event, they will join a prevention panel session recognizing winners from each of six DHHR regions.

PEP is a collaborative coalition involving community-based members and organizations focused on increasing access to comprehensive prevention services for youth and families in Cabell County and surrounding areas. Their mission is to empower youth to enact positive change within their communities while prioritizing prevention throughout their lives.