Alphia Dunbar is director of prevention services at the Aiken Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Services.

1. How did you become involved with the Aiken Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Services?

The Aiken Center offers education and awareness programs in the Prevention Services Division. This gave me the opportunity as a health educator to promote wellness and healthy lifestyles. We educate individuals, groups and the community at large on the harmful consequences of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use.

2. What past experiences have you been able to draw upon to aid you in your job as the center's director of prevention services?

I have worked in the health education field for over 10 years. This gives me experience in assessing the needs of the community being served and planning a program that suits its needs. This also gives me experience with implementing programs and evaluating their success.

3. How do residents in the area benefit from the Aiken Center?

The Aiken Center provides hope to people who are striving to prevent addictive behaviors or who are working to achieve recovery. We offer a safe, supportive and educational environment that fosters positive change in the lives of Aiken County individuals and families.

4. What services are provided by the Aiken Center?

Community-based outpatient counseling and treatment, outpatient treatment services for youth who are 17 years of age and under or who are in secondary school, (an) alcohol and drug safety action program which provides assessment, treatment, and referral services for those convicted of driving under the influence or boating under the influence, pre-trial intervention for clients referred by the solicitor's office, and prevention services for alcohol, tobacco and drugs.

5. What do you hope in the long run the Aiken Center will accomplish?

To create a safer, healthier environment by providing affordable and accessible treatment and prevention services.