CapTech and Center for Prevention Services Launch First in the Nation Drug and Alcohol Prevention Mobile Application for Youth

CHARLOTTE, NC – [November 17, 2016] – Can an interactive mobile application prevent youth from using drugs and alcohol? CapTech, a national management and information technology consulting firm, and two Charlotte nonprofits, Apparo and the Center for Prevention Services, believe it can. Through a unique partnership, the three have launched a first-of-its-kind mobile application called 'Lead the Way' that will engage and educate young people about substance abuse in a relatable way and is currently available in the Apple store.

"'Lead the Way' is mobile tool that will help build a child's character, give them confidence, and enhance their decision making. CapTech is honored to be the technology developers behind this important project," said Errol Restelli, Principal at CapTech. "We believe technology can be an efficient and effective tool to prevent drug and alcohol abuse among the younger generation and we are excited to lead the way."

'Lead the Way' will help strengthen students through communication, decision-making, and self-esteem boosting activities in conjunction with the "Learn to Lead" course offered by the Center for Prevention Services. Participants can use the application to take quizzes, share their results, and create a personal Coat of Arms they can display, discuss, and share with friends and family.

"Prevention works," said Angela Allen, Executive Director of the Center for Prevention Services. "If we can reach students before they become addicted, we can teach them how to cope with life's challenges without turning to substances. The 'Lead the Way' app gives us a new and exciting way to reach students in a way that resonates with them. The 'Lead the Way' mobile application wouldn't be possible without Apparo."

Apparo is Charlotte's only local nonprofit dedicated to helping other nonprofits with their specific business or technology needs. Apparo's volunteer opportunities allow corporate volunteers to use their skills to make a positive impact on the community. By providing employees the opportunity to give back via IT education, training, and providing IT solutions to local nonprofits, corporations improve employee retention, increase collaboration skills, propel out-of-the-box thinking

"This project was birthed through Apparo's Community Impact Project's skilled volunteer program and we couldn't be more proud," said Kim Lanphear, Executive Director of Apparo. "This is a powerful example of what can be accomplished when our corporate partners step up to the plate to donate their time and talents to help local nonprofits in need. The sky is the limit."

About Apparo

Apparo, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization, connects nonprofits and corporations in the Charlotte, N.C area, delivering technology solutions that multiply nonprofit effectiveness. Considered the go-to provider of technology strategy, implementation, consulting and support services for nonprofits, to date Apparo has served more than 350 local nonprofits, providing them with $7.2 million worth of technology solutions. To learn more, visit apparo.org or call 704.716.7767.