L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) Program

The L.E.A.D. (Law Enforcement Against Drugs & Violence) Program in New Jersey is a school- and community-based drug and violence prevention program. It aims to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse, bullying, and violence while fostering positive relationships between law enforcement officers and local communities.

Key Features of the L.E.A.D. Program:

1. School-Based Curriculum – L.E.A.D. offers evidence-based lessons taught by specially trained police officers in classrooms. The curriculum focuses on:

• Drug and alcohol prevention
• Anti-bullying strategies
• Decision-making and leadership skills
• Conflict resolution and resistance to peer pressure

2. Community Engagement – The program extends beyond schools to include community events, youth outreach, and law enforcement participation in local activities.

3. Replacing D.A.R.E. – Many New Jersey police departments use L.E.A.D. as an alternative to the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program, offering an updated and research-backed curriculum.

4. Training for Officers – L.E.A.D. provides law enforcement officials with professional training to effectively teach and mentor students.

Goals of L.E.A.D.:

• Prevent substance abuse and violence among youth.
• Encourage healthy and safe decision-making.
• Strengthen community-police relationships.
• Promote leadership and responsibility in students.

The program is active in many New Jersey schools and communities, working to create a safer environment for young people. Funding is provided by the Evesham Municipal Alliance.