West Branch Drug and Alcohol Abuse Commission

10/30/2026

Halloween is here, and whether you're hosting a party, heading out with friends or celebrating with family, a little planning can help make the weekend fun and safe for everyone!

And remember, Halloween fun doesn't have to revolve around alcohol.

Hosting a gathering? Offer some festive mocktails! They're perfect for designated drivers, guests who choose not to drink and younger partygoers.

Looking for inspiration? Check out this collection of 30+ non-alcoholic Halloween drinks, from spooky mocktails and seasonal punches to c***r and kid-friendly concoctions!

https://twohealthykitchens.com/non-alcoholic-halloween-drinks/

You always need a great, non-alcoholic option at your Halloween party! Maybe a kids' drink or something special for non-drinkers. But it's gotta be so terrific that nobody's gonna miss the alcohol!

10/30/2026

We love a good celebration at WB….

Congratulations to the bride to be, Shawn! Wishing you a lifetime of happiness! 🤍

10/30/2026

Ready for work!

10/30/2026

10/29/2026

Alcohol & Youth: Prevention Starts Before the First Drink

Preventing underage drinking starts with open conversations, clear expectations and supportive relationships — long before a young person faces the decision to drink.

At West Branch Drug & Alcohol, reducing youth alcohol use is one of our prevention priorities in Lycoming County.

Parents and caregivers can help by:

• Starting conversations early about alcohol and its risks.

• Challenging the misconception that "everyone drinks."

• Setting clear expectations about underage alcohol use.

• Helping young people prepare for peer pressure and practice saying no.

• Making sure teens know they can always turn to a trusted adult for help.

Small, everyday conversations can make a meaningful difference. The goal isn't one big talk, but ongoing communication that builds trust and encourages healthy decisions.

Learn more about prevention and find helpful resources for parents and caregivers:
https://wbdrugandalcohol.org/resources/for-parents/

10/28/2026

Come trick-or-treat in downtown Williamsport this evening 5 to 8! Please stop by and see the West Branch gnomes!🎃👻🎃👻

10/28/2026

WBDA supports South FBLA with student assistance.

Prevention provided Halloween safety tips & other goodies! 🎃

10/28/2026

Substance use prevention is about more than understanding the risks of alcohol and other substances.

It's also about giving young people the skills to navigate challenges, manage stress and make healthy decisions.

Healthy coping and life skills are important prevention tools, including:

• Managing Emotions: Finding healthy ways to handle stress and difficult feelings.

• Communication: Expressing thoughts and needs with confidence.

• Problem-Solving: Thinking through challenges and making informed choices.

• Goal Setting: Understanding how today's decisions shape tomorrow.

• Handling Peer Pressure: Building confidence to set boundaries and say no.

At West Branch Drug & Alcohol, our Too Good for Drugs school-based prevention program helps students develop these essential skills alongside substance use prevention education.

Prevention isn't just about what young people should avoid. It's about giving them the tools to make healthy choices.

Learn more:
https://wbdrugandalcohol.org/services/prevention/

10/27/2026

When it comes to talking with kids and teens about alcohol and other substances, you don't need to have one big, intimidating conversation. In fact, the most meaningful conversations often happen a little at a time.

Substance use prevention starts with open communication, trust and helping young people feel comfortable asking questions and sharing their experiences.

Here are a few ways parents and caregivers can keep the conversation going:

• Start Early: Don't wait until you think your child has encountered alcohol or other substances. Begin with age-appropriate conversations and build on them as your child grows.

• Find Everyday Opportunities: Something on TV, social media or a situation at school can be a natural starting point.

• Ask, Then Listen: Try questions like, "What have you heard about this?" or "What do you think about that?" Listen without immediately reacting or judging.

• Set Clear Expectations: Talk openly about your family's expectations around substance use and explain the reasons behind them.

• Keep the Door Open: Remind kids and teens that they can come to you or another trusted adult with questions, concerns or difficult situations.

And remember, you don't have to have all the answers. Looking for reliable information together can be an opportunity to learn and build trust.

At West Branch Drug & Alcohol, we encourage families to make prevention an ongoing part of everyday communication. Small conversations today can help build the trust and confidence young people need to make healthy decisions tomorrow.

One conversation isn't the goal. Keeping the conversation going is.

Find more tips and resources for raising drug-free kids:
https://wbdrugandalcohol.org/services/prevention/raising-drug-free-kids/