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The UDecide Program (UDP), formerly known as the Underage Drinking Program, is an educational program for young adults who have experienced trouble at school or home or have legal problems as a result of substance use. UDP is provided to Berks County residents by the Council on Chemical Abuse (COCA) and is a three-session program, totaling 12 hours. It is not a treatment program. Rather, it is an opportunity for young adults to learn the facts about alcohol, marijuana, and other addictive substances.
“This class really helped me think about how alcohol affects me. Now I feel like I am taking these issues more seriously”- Past UDP Participant
UDP is facilitated by experienced professionals utilizing an evidence-informed curriculum to help foster behavioral change, and reduce the likelihood of future problems. Young adults must attend all assigned sessions. Participants MUST BE REGISTERED for a class in order to attend and get credit.
Participants who are referred to the program due to legal issues, may, upon successful completion, have their penalty lessened, at the discretion of the Magisterial District Judge and Community Youth Aid Panel. For those referred by a school Student Assistance Program (SAP), UDecide may be an alternative to disciplinary action.
Classes are offered in monthly cycles consisting of three student sessions (3 hours each) and one parent session (2 hours).
Click for ScheduleA $100 non-refundable service fee must be submitted before the participant is eligible to schedule his/her sessions.
Click for Payment FormReferrals are accepted from Magisterial District Justices, Youth Aid Panels, SAP Teams, school officials, and parents/guardians in Berks Co.
Download Referral FormUDP topics include:
Parents/guardians of minors (under 18) are required to attend a two-hour evening session, as well as the exit interview on the last day of their child’s sessions. The parent/guardian session gives an overview of the topics covered in the youth sessions. Parents/guardians are also offered intervention information and support and assume an active role in assisting youth with any alcohol or drug problem. Parents/guardians of youth 18 and over are also encouraged to attend this session.
Most sessions are held at COCA, 601 Penn Street, Suite 600, Reading, PA 19601. Please note that session locations may vary.
Referrals to the UDecide Program are accepted from Magisterial District Justices and Youth Aid Panels, as well as, SAP Teams, school officials, and parents/guardians in Berks County, PA. Forms can be submitted to the program coordinator by email, fax or mail. Referrals can also be made by calling the Program Coordinator.
CLICK HERE to download a confidential referral form.
Phone (610) 685-4490
Fax (610) 376-8423
Email: udp@cocaberks.org
Inclement Weather Policy – In the event of inclement weather on the day of a scheduled UDP class, please visit COCA’s website home page. Any information about class cancellations will be posted as soon as a decision is made.
