Students keeping students safe
SLS trains Michigan students to lead peer prevention in their own schools. They build leadership, resistance skills, and the confidence to look out for one another before problems become crises.
Three ways to work with SLS
Most visitors come to us for one of three reasons. Pick the path that fits, and we’ll show you what you need.
Bring student-led prevention to your building
Launch an SLS or STAND chapter in your school. Students lead prevention work for their peers, with advisor training and ongoing support from SLS staff.
- Start an SLS or STAND chapter
- Advisor training and ongoing materials
- Statewide network and annual Conference
Contract with SLS to deliver evidence-based curriculum
For schools that want a structured curriculum delivered by trained SLS staff. Nationally recognized programs, aligned with Michigan Department of Education standards.
- Botvin LifeSkills Training
- Prime For Life
- Guiding Good Choices
Fund the mission that keeps students safe
Since 1982, SLS has relied on the generosity of donors and sponsors. Every dollar goes directly toward training students in the leadership and prevention skills that save lives.
- Make a tax-deductible donation
- Become a corporate sponsor
- Sponsor the Golf Outing or Conference
Three strategies, one mission
When it comes to student-led prevention and youth development, we focus relentlessly on what works.
Listen to Students
Youth voice matters above all. Students know what the most pressing problems are in their schools and communities. We ask, then listen.
Engage Students
SLS students are not helpers in adult-created projects. They decide what is meaningful to them and create their own initiatives, seeking adult guidance as needed.
Let Them Lead
We coach leadership skills and provide the tools and platform. Then we get out of the way and let students lead.
A 7-year validation study, 23 schools, 7 measurable outcomes
SLS is one of the few youth prevention programs with a long-term, independently led validation study. From 2011 to 2018, Dr. Lisa Ficker of Wayne State University evaluated SLS across 23 Michigan high schools, measuring outcomes from substance use to school engagement to leadership development.
Our work is recognized by SAMHSA, independently validated by Wayne State University, and aligned with national prevention best practice.
See the research →Trusted by educators and students alike
From advisors who see the transformation in their schools to students who find their voice.
A few months ago I lost contact with a close friend because she started acting out. After the workshop I realized many of the things she was doing were warning signs. I sent her a simple text asking if she was ok, and she instantly responded with everything that had been happening. She was really grateful that I reached out because she needed someone to talk with.
Dawn creates a safe space for students to try on the mantle of leadership. I love seeing students engage that have been limited in the past.
Once again you have proven the relevance of SLS and why your agency is so important to our kids and families today. World class resources for all of us.
What’s happening at SLS
Conference 2026 Registration Now Open
Registration is open for the 39th Annual SLS Conference at Shanty Creek Resort. Students and advisors from across Michigan are invited to join us for two days of leadership training, workshops, and peer networking.
March 15, 2026Conference 2026
The annual SLS Conference brings students from across Michigan together for leadership training, workshops, and peer networking.
April 13, 2026Welcome to Our Newest SLS Chapters
SLS is proud to welcome several new school chapters for the 2025-2026 school year. Student-led prevention continues to grow across Michigan.
January 10, 2026What our students learn and lead
Evidence-based education across the issues that matter most to young people.
Ready to bring SLS to your school?
Start a chapter, book a workshop, or support student-led prevention with a tax-deductible donation.