OUR FOUNDER
In the late 1980s, the devastating effects of drug use were seen in the state's
workforce. Determined to address this problem, then Governor William A. O'Neill
tapped the talent and expertise of a handful of public and private sector business
leaders to implement a strategy to prevent the problem from occurring in the future
workforce. The result was the launch of DRUGS DON'T WORK!, now known as The Governor's
Prevention Partnership, a statewide public-private initiative whose mission is
to keep Connecticut's youth safe, successful and drug-free.
The Partnership's work is rooted in the vision that success at home, at school
and in their communities will result in youth's ability to be productive members
of society as adults. With our partners, we are committed to addressing the barriers
to their success. While initially focused on drug prevention for adults and youth,
the organization's mission has evolved to include youth violence and underage
drinking prevention and, more recently, mentoring.
The Partnership's most powerful contribution is its ability to make connections
with and build the capacity of programs and individuals involved with positive
youth development.
In the process, people from all walks of life and generations joined The Governor's Prevention Partnership in its common purpose to protect our young people.