Student Assistance Counselor Receives School-Based Prevention Award

Mr. Julius

The Westchester Task Force on Child Abuse and Neglect has selected Alexander Hamilton Middle High School (AHHS) Student Assistance Counselor Richard Julius as one of its honorees for the 2010 "Unsung Hero" Award. This award is given to members of the professional children's services community for their distinguished dedication to making a difference in the lives of children. Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino will present the award to Mr. Julius on April 28 at the Westchester Institute for Human Development in Valhalla. Mr. Julius is being recognized for his service in the category of school-based prevention programs, which include drug and alcohol prevention, early intervention counseling, and referrals to appropriate treatment agencies.

"Richard has been a dedicated and valued member of the Elmsford school staff since 1996 who has no doubt impacted the lives of thousands of young people during his time here," said Superintendent Dr. Barbara Peters. Mr. Julius, who is a clinical social worker and credentialed alcohol and substance abuse counselor, helps students to develop an awareness of the effects of alcohol or drugs on family dynamics, and skills for coping with pressures and problems. His school-based program enables students to express feelings, identify support systems, distinguish between fact and fiction regarding drug use, and recognize risk factors.

In 1998, Mr. Julius started the AHHS chapter of Students Against Destructive Decisions, a peer-to-peer education, prevention, and activism organization dedicated to preventing destructive decisions, particularly underage drinking, drug use, risky and impaired driving, teen violence, and teen suicide. This group assists with activities throughout the school year, and is the voice of students committed to positive peer pressure and role modeling.

"Mr. Julius is a great mentor for those he helps," said senior Ladora Cromwell, who is also a member of SADD and the 2010 class salutatorian. "He is an active member, and a good influence in our school."

To learn more about the school-based prevention program at AHHS, contact Mr. Julius (914) 592-4187