Change Direction is an alcohol and other drug education program offered at many locations throughout Minnesota with funding from the Chemical Health Division of the State of Minnesota Human Services Department. The curriculum has been adapted to several cultural groups as well. It offers an effective diversion system for first time violators of alcohol, other drug and tobacco statutes. Judges, prosecutors, probation officers, social service agencies and others refer first time offenders to this proven and effective alternative to fines, probation or jail time. Change Direction, a recipient of the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) Pacesetter Award for outstanding drug education programming, assists and educates participants to make better choices regarding their use/nonuse of substances.

Need a program in Minnesota for people making risky decisions about their alcohol, tobacco and other drug use?

The Change Direction program offers judges, probation officers and social service agencies a proven and effective alternative to fines, probation or jail time. For parents and schools, Change Direction can help get someone back on the right track.

 Violations suitable for referral include:

• First time alcohol and marijuana offenses
• Underage alcohol consumption and possession
• Underage drinking and driving
• Possession of minimal amount of marijuana
• Underage Purchase or use of tobacco