The Institute for Health and Wellness provides prevention services aimed at reducing and eliminating the risk factors that place youth at risk for illicit substance use and other risky behaviors. The programs are funded by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support, Westchester County Invest In Kids, and other local and private grants.

The Institute is home to two 2 community Coalitions:

White Plains Cares Coalition 

and, 

The Coalition for Living Wellness.             

These coalitions bring together members of various community organizations representing different sectors to help reduce the risk factors that place youth at risk for delinquent behaviors and interfere with their ability to achieve optimal health. They also help to increase the protective factors that support positive youth development and help youth become self supporting and productive members of the community. 

The strategies adopted by the coalitions are data driven and evidence based. Every two years, the White Plains Youth Bureau conducts youth survey that provides valuable insight into these risk and protective factors.  In addition, data is also collected from other archival sources and community partners to further inform and guide the development of the most effective and timely approaches to impact positive youth development.