This document presents information on risk factors and preventive factors and how to use them to develop programs; on the highest-risk periods for drug use among youth; and how drug use starts and how it proceeds. The guide explains how community leaders can: assess the level of risk for drug abuse in the community; judge the effectiveness of current prevention efforts; motivate the community to take action and implement new prevention programs; be sure prevention strategies are in line with community needs; take a promising model program and implement it effectively; and evaluate their own progress and the progress against community drug problems. The document also describes some research-based drug abuse prevention programs, including Project STAR; a life skills training program; Seattle Social Development Project; several projects centering on families; and several programs focusing on adolescents. In addition, the document includes a list of resources. References