Building Resilience in Youth and Families

At Santa Maria, we believe that prevention starts early—by equipping children, families, and communities with the tools they need to thrive. Our Prevention and Intervention Services are designed to reduce risk factors for substance use, promote behavioral health and wellness, and build strong, lasting family connections.

We partner with local schools, churches, and community organizations to deliver engaging, research-based programs that strengthen resilience and support healthy development. By reaching individuals where they are, through community-based services, education, and personalized support, we work to stop substance use before it starts and create pathways for long-term wellness and stability for youth, families, and the communities we serve.

Who We Support

  • Pregnant women and new mothers
  • Families facing stress, trauma, or instability
  • Youth at risk of substance use or behavioral health issues

For Youth: Skills to Grow and Succeed

Using an evidence-based prevention curriculum, we offer structured support groups led by trained facilitators who help students:

  • Develop emotional resilience
  • Improve self-esteem and communication skills
  • Cope with adversity and peer pressure
  • Make safe, healthy choices
  • Strengthening school performance and social connections

Programs are available to elementary and middle school students through partnerships with area schools and afterschool programs.

For Families: Strengthening Connections at Home

Prevention doesn't stop at the school doors. We offer family-focused programs that support parents and caregivers with:

  • Tools to improve communication and strengthen family bonds
  • Strategies to protect children from substance use and other risky behaviors
  • Education on trauma, mental health, and positive discipline
  • Community resources and referrals as needed

These services help families create safe, supportive home environments where children can
thrive.

Where We Serve

Prevention services are delivered in:

  • Public and private schools
  • Community centers
  • Churches and faith-based organizations
  • Local nonprofits and afterschool programs

Who We Support

  • Pregnant women and new mothers
  • Families facing stress, trauma, or instability
  • Youth at risk of substance use or behavioral health issues

For Youth: Skills to Grow and Succeed

Using an evidence-based prevention curriculum, we offer structured support groups led by trained facilitators who help students:

  • Develop emotional resilience
  • Improve self-esteem and communication skills
  • Cope with adversity and peer pressure
  • Make safe, healthy choices
  • Strengthening school performance and social connections

Programs are available to elementary and middle school students through partnerships with area schools and afterschool programs.

For Families: Strengthening Connections at Home

Prevention doesn't stop at the school doors. We offer family-focused programs that support parents and caregivers with:

  • Tools to improve communication and strengthen family bonds
  • Strategies to protect children from substance use and other risky behaviors
  • Education on trauma, mental health, and positive discipline
  • Community resources and referrals as needed

These services help families create safe, supportive home environments where children can
thrive.

Where We Serve

Prevention services are delivered in:

  • Public and private schools
  • Community centers
  • Churches and faith-based organizations
  • Local nonprofits and afterschool programs

Our Approach

Our programs are rooted in prevention science and trauma-informed care. We aim to reduce risk factors while enhancing the protective factors that help individuals thrive.

Program highlights include:

  • Behavioral health education and awareness
  • Family-centered support services
  • Youth prevention programs in schools and community settings
  • Parenting support and skills training
  • Connection to resources for housing, health care, and mental health
  • Early intervention to reduce the need for more intensive services later

Creating Stronger Communities Together

By helping youth develop life skills and supporting caregivers in their parenting journey, we work to build healthier, more resilient communities—one child, one family at a time.

Want to bring these services to your school or organization?

Contact
Amber Lotsi, LCSW
Senior Director of Clinical Services
(281) 602-4976 or alotsi@santamariahostel.org

Ready to get started?

Request Service