The author explains that African-American adolescent girls, particularly those living in an inner city environment, are at heightened risk for early drug and sexual involvement. Research has suggested that drug and sexual involvement tend to go hand in hand. As such, developing programs for these girls designed to promote self-esteem is crucial for preventing drug abuse and early sexual initiation. The author reviews two culturally appropriate programs designed to prevent drug abuse in African-American adolescent girls. One program, Project Naja, is based in Washington, DC, and emphasizes strong ethnic and gender identity. The other program, the Cultural Enhancement Project, recruits African-American girls in Richmond, VA, and promotes life skills training to reduce drug use among this population. After collecting pre- and post-test data on cultural, drug, and sex measures, the author found that Project Naja was effective at promoting Africentric values and racial identity, as well as promoting a positive attitude about the girls’ physical appearance. The Cultural Enhancement Project was effective in promoting a positive African-American identity. In conclusion, the author notes that programs such as these, designed to promote a strong ethnic identity and self-esteem, are an important component of any program for at-risk African- American girls. Tables, references