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Policies

Tobacco Policy

Dipping not allowed

E cigarettes not allowed

Smoking cessation products not allowed

Smoking not allowed

Referral / Admission

Referral process

Step 1: Referral Submission Referrals may be made by parents/guardians, schools, community agencies, or the youth themselves. Referrals can be submitted online through the UAC Referral Form (website), by email, or in person. Step 2: Intake Review Once a referral is received, the UAC team reviews it within 5 business days. Staff check for basic eligibility (age 12–18, located in Kingsport/East TN, interest in athletics/mentorship). Step 3: Parent/Guardian Contact UAC staff contact the parent/guardian (or referring party) to: Confirm referral details Explain program services Obtain consent for youth participation Step 4: Youth Intake Meeting Youth and parent/guardian attend an intake session with UAC staff. During intake: Youth goals and needs are identified Program expectations are explained Consent forms are signed Step 5: Mentor Match & Program Start Youth are matched with a trained UAC mentor based on interests and needs. Youth are enrolled in UAC programs (mentorship, athletics, life skills workshops). Families receive a program calendar and contact information for support. Step 6: Ongoing Support UAC staff check in regularly with youth, mentors, and parents/guardians. Progress is monitored on resilience, coping skills, and confidence. Referring parties may receive updates (with consent).

Admission criteria

To participate in UAC programs, youth must meet the following criteria: Age: 12–18 years old Location: Reside in Kingsport or surrounding East Tennessee communities Mental Health Needs: Experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health diagnosis and in need of additional coping skills and mentorship Behavioral Safety: No history of aggression, violence, or behaviors that pose a safety risk to self or others Program Participation: Able to engage in mentorship and group activities without attempting to run from staff or program settings Parental/Guardian Consent: Parent or guardian must consent to participation and agree to program expectations

Medication Policies

Prescription Medication Policy Details

UAC staff, volunteers, and mentors will not administer medication (prescription or non-prescription) to any youth participant. Staff and volunteers will not store or hold medications on behalf of any youth. Parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that children take any required medications before or after program hours. In cases where a youth needs medication during program hours, a parent/guardian must be present to administer it. Emergency Situations In the event of a medical emergency (e.g., allergic reaction, asthma attack, seizure): Staff will immediately call 911 and follow emergency response procedures. Parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible. Staff may provide comfort and support until professional medical personnel arrive but will not administer medication (including EpiPens, inhalers, or other prescribed treatments). Acknowledgement Parents/guardians will be informed of this policy at the time of enrollment and asked to acknowledge their understanding by signing the program intake/consent form.