SICA represents Nebraska's State Incentive Cooperative Agreement. This is a federally funded program administered by Nebraska's Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Mental Health Substance Abuse and Addiction services under the leadership of the Governor, in partnership with the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The goal of the SICA Community Programs is to eliminate or significantly reduce substance abuse in youth ages 12-17 by assisting communities to create and/or expand sustainable, collaborative coalitions to implement effective substance abuse prevention policies, practices, and programs.

North Central District Health Department is working with two coalitions: A.S.A.P. (Area Substance Abuse Prevention)-O'Neill and E & E Endeavors for Prevention which include the communities of Ewing and Elgin. Each coalition meets monthly and is working on implementing both individual and environmental strategies. Click here to read about the Recognition Award for Deputy Sheriff Jeff Treu.

Alcohol is the most commonly used drug among our young people, surpassing tobacco and illicit drugs. Alcohol is a powerful, mood-altering drug, and its use by children poses very serious health risks for bodies and minds that are still maturing. It can cloud judgment and interfere with developing social skills and academic achievement. Moreover, children are beginning to drink at very young ages, sometimes before they finish elementary school. Although drinking is often considered a normal part of growing up, like starting to date and learning to drive, it is not.

Tips for parents: While parent-child conversations about drinking are essential, talking isn't enough - you also need to take concrete action to help your child resist alcohol. Research shows strong evidence that active, supportive involvement by parents and guardians can help teens avoid underage drinking and prevent later alcohol misuse. The message is clear: Young teens still need plenty of adult supervision. Some ways to provide this are:

· Establish a loving, trusting relationship with your child
· Make it easy for your teen to talk honestly with you
· Monitor alcohol use in your home
· Keep track of your child's activities and join with other parents in making common policies about teen alcohol use.
· Develop family rules about teen drinking and establish consequences
· Set a good example regarding your own alcohol use and your response to teen drinking
· Don't support teen drinking
· Help your child build healthy friendships
· Encourage healthy and fun alternatives to alcohol

SICA Resource list