keepin’ it REAL (kiR)

keepin’ it REAL (kiR) a culturally grounded, evidence-based life skills and substance use prevention program for 6th–8th grade students.

Overview

keepin’ it REAL (kiR) is an evidence-based, culturally grounded prevention program for 6-8th grade students (ages 12-14). Designed to reduce substance use, kiR builds essential life skills such as decision-making, problem solving, communication, and risk awareness through lessons grounded in real youth experiences. At the core of the program are the R.E.A.L. strategies: Refuse, Explain, Avoid, and Leave. These four simple, practical approaches give students tools they can use in real life to handle peer pressure and substance offers.

Recognized by SAMHSA as a Model Program and one of the most cost-effective school-based prevention programs in the U.S., kiR is now considered a legacy program and is implemented in schools and communities nationwide and around the world.

How the Program Works

Outcomes

kiR has shown positive results across multiple evaluations. Research demonstrates that participating in kiR leads to:

The curriculum was designed with youth, not just for youth. It includes topics such as:

REAL (Refuse, Explain, Avoid, Leave) strategies
Decision-making and problem-solving
Communication and assertiveness
Goal setting and future planning
Cultural identity and personal values
Substance use and risk prevention

Information

To explore collaboration opportunities or implement kiR in your school or organization, please send us an email us at [email protected].