Since 2021, the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) has partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBS) to deliver opioid and substance abuse prevention programs tailored for mentors, staff, parents/guardians, and youth across the nation. This collaboration has evolved over the years, and in 2025, it is breaking new ground with the launch of innovative microtraining offerings.

Building on Success: Tailored Virtual Trainings

The DEAEF-BBBS partnership has consistently focused on meeting the unique needs of its diverse audiences. From staff to mentors (Bigs), youth (Littles), and parents/guardians, each training is thoughtfully customized. According to Amy Danos, Director of Special Events and Grant Management with the DEAEF, while the core content remains similar, the structure and delivery vary depending on the audience. For example, sessions for Littles are designed with age-appropriate language, engaging ice-breakers, and activities led by specialists in youth education.

Each session is moderated by DEAEF personnel, who ensure an interactive and engaging experience. Speakers include DEA personnel, former agents, and trusted partners, each bringing a wealth of expertise and personal stories that foster connection and understanding.

Introducing Microtraining in 2025

This year marks the debut of a new microtraining initiative aimed at providing a more dynamic and flexible learning experience for mentors. These bite-sized training modules combine mixed media elements, including short videos, interactive quizzes, PDFs, and recorded discussions, to engage participants while covering a wide range of topics.

Highlights of the microtrainings include:

1. State of the Union – DEA personnel share the latest statistics on drug use, dangers of fake drugs, and emerging trends.
2. Resources – Practical tools and materials created by the DEA.
3. Refusal Skills – Presented by Jessica Hulsey from the Addiction Policy Forum, this session equips participants with strategies to help youth confidently say no to drugs and alcohol.
4. Scientific Insights – Short training videos developed by Addiction Policy Forum including Protect Your Brain, Age Matters, and Mind Your Genes provide engaging, science-based education.
5. Mental Health Strategies – Addressing self-care and stress relief techniques tailored for young kids and teens.
6. Social Media and Safety – Partner-led training on recognizing online grooming, building resilience, and navigating social media-related risks.
7. Awkward Conversations – Skills for mentors to tackle sensitive topics with empathy and clarity.
8. Movement and Wellness – Yoga-based exercises, breathing techniques, and gentle movements led by DEAEF instructors.
9. Reflection and Goal Setting – Helping mentors guide youth in setting achievable, positive goals.

“We hope the microtraining concept enhances engagement while covering critical areas that matter most to our participants,” Danos said. “It’s all about empowering our mentors with diverse tools and insights to create lasting change.”

The impact of these programs extends far beyond the sessions themselves, equipping families, mentors, and youth with tools to build stronger, healthier relationships. Laura Dye, Director of Federal Grant Operations at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, reflects on the significance of this collaboration, saying, “Our DEA Educational Foundation partnership has been a valuable tool in creating community awareness and delivering resources to our families, mentors, and young people. In addition to the proven benefits of mentorship on characteristics like academic achievement and self-esteem, our Littles are learning refusal skills, healthy decision-making, and the potential impacts of substance misuse on their futures. The insights shared by DEAEF experts empower parents and mentors to build protective factors with our youth – a true collaborative effort that benefits everyone.”

A Partnership Rooted in Impact

The DEAEF-BBBS collaboration has grown to become a cornerstone of substance abuse education, with programs that have impacted communities nationwide. By leveraging expert speakers, interactive content, and innovative approaches like microtraining, the partnership continues to address urgent issues such as drug abuse, mental health, and youth safety.

With the ongoing support of BBBS and its dedicated mentors, the DEAEF is poised to expand its reach and deepen its impact, offering hope and resources to communities in need.