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Our Mission

We give people, especially youth, the knowledge and tools they need
to make better-informed and more positive life choices.

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Greetings from CHC!

Thank you for visiting our website. I hope you’ll take some time to learn more about our wonderful organization and the services and programs we offer in and around the Lehigh Valley.

For the past 46 years we have been a leader in prevention education. Our mission is to empower young people and adults to make healthy and informed decisions by providing them with the skills necessary to meet life’s many challenges.

Our staff is comprised of dedicated professionals who come from diverse backgrounds in education, counseling, social work, and the health sciences. Through funding from Northampton and Lehigh Counties, corporate grants, and individual philanthropy, we partner with school districts, other non-profits, and private organizations to deliver myriad programming across our 3 distinct departments: Prevention, Student Assistance Program (SAP), and Mentoring. During the 2024-2025 program year, CHC reached more than 24,000 consumers from young children to senior adults.

If we can ever be of service to you, your school, your organization, or company - with programming or information - please do not hesitate to reach out to us so we can explore new and exciting collaborations.

With every best wish,

Andrew D’Angelo, M.A.
Executive Director
adangelo@thechc.org 

RESOURCES


988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national hotline offering one-on-one support for mental health, suicide, and substance use-related problems for anyone 24/7. Visit www.988LifeLine.org to learn more.


PA Get Help Now Helpline

The PA Get Help Now Helpline is a statewide, 24/7 hotline that offers treatment and support for individuals seeking help for themselves or a loved one. Visit https://www.pa.gov/agencies/ddap/treatment-and-support/get-help-now-campaign to learn more.


Get Smart About Drugs

Get Smart About Drugs is an educational resource maintained by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It’s to help parents, educators, and caregivers understand the risks and realities of drug usage among teens. Visit www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.org to learn more.


National Problem Gambling Helpline

The National Council on Problem Gambling provides a range of resources, including answers to commonly asked questions, a gambling behavior self-assessment, information about treatment and the National Problem Gambling Helpline to connect you with help. Visit https://www.NCPGambling.org/Help-Treatment/ to learn more.


Rise Above Opioids

Lehigh County Department of Drug & Alcohol has launched Rise Above Opioids, a website designed to provide comprehensive resources for individuals and families affected by Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The platform serves as a hub for education, prevention, and recovery site. Visit www.RiseAboveOpioids.org to learn more.

NEWS


What's SAPpening?

The May 2026 Newsletter provides information on various topics.

Including:

  • Increasing risks associated with marijuana use
  • Respiratory concerns related to vaping
  • Managing prom-related anxiety
  • Potential dangers of energy drinks
  • Strategies for supporting mental health
  • Recognizing warning signs of mental illness
  • Impact of video gaming on youth

Hope For The Workplace

Did you know Pennsylvania's overdose rate is higher than the national average? Anyone can become addicted. Anyone.

The Center for Humanistic Change offers the HOPE for the Workplace program to all area businesses, small or large, at no cost! This program can include Narcan training and a Free Narcan kit for all participants. Click here for more information.

To schedule this employee benefit at your location or as a virtual program, contact Lisa Wolff (Manager of Community Engagement) by phone at 610-443-1595 Ext. 36 or email to lwolff@thechc.org.


Fentanyl Kills - Fake Is Real

Fake is Real is a fentanyl awareness campaign in Northampton County, PA. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid analgesic that is similar to morphine but is 50 to 100 times more potent. Overdose is now the leading cause of death for ages 18-45, and fentanyl is killing teens at an alarming rate. Visit www.FakeIsReal.org/ to learn more.


“Gas Station Drugs” – What You Need to Know

The PA State House passed a bill on June 16, 2026 that would make “gas station heroin” illegal in Pennsylvania. Tianeptine is a highly addictive opioid-like drug (not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration) that is sold in local gas stations and vape shops. Common product names include Tiana and Za Za. According to the FDA, this dangerous drug has been linked to hundreds of overdoses and deaths across the country.

Two other “gas station drugs” of concern are:

  • Kratom, a natural botanical powder, capsule, or tea that in small amounts acts as a stimulant, and in larger amounts may provide pain relief and sedation. However, with frequent use, some people may become physically dependent or addicted to Kratom and subsequently suffer difficult withdrawal symptoms.

  • 7-OH is a semi-synthetic, concentrated version of the trace compound found naturally in Kratom. It is much more potent than Kratom and behaves similarly to opioids, resulting in the risk of dependence, addiction, withdrawal, overdose, and even death. 7-OH Products are sold in candy- flavored gummies, tablets, and drink shots, and include little to no information about recommended dosage or health risks.