Engaging Youth Expertise: Evaluation of a Youth-Led Substance Use Prevention Model Centering Lived Experience.

Abstract

Background: Young people with lived experience of substance use are not consistently engaged in shaping local prevention efforts. The Engaging Youth Expertise for Prevention Model was created to involve youth aged 13 to 25 with lived experience to identify and address gaps in prevention infrastructure.

Objective: This paper describes the evaluation of a model for engaging youth with lived experience to identify key drivers of substance use and to help shape programming aimed at prevention.

Methods: Youth leaders completed a baseline and ongoing 6-month experience evaluation assessing knowledge, skills, abilities and youth-adult interaction domains. A focus group was held in October 2023 to gather additional insights. Exiting leaders completed an optional survey to reflect on their experience and suggest improvements. Quantitative data were analyzed using paired t-tests (α < 0.05). Qualitative data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results: Eighteen youth leaders participated from 10 to 29 months (median, 16 months; interquartile range, 12 months). Improvements were seen in socio-political skills, participa-tory behavior, and youth decision-making from baseline to final timepoint evaluations. Qualitative findings from evaluations, exit surveys, and the focus group emphasized gains in social emotional skills, mental health, reduced intent/desire to use substances, and stronger peer/community connections. Youth also reported engaging in broader community prevention efforts.

Conclusions: The Engaging Youth Expertise for Prevention Model is an effective, adaptable approach for engaging youth with lived experience. This evaluation highlights key components others can tailor to amplify youth voices and equip them to drive positive change in their communities.