CPO assumes management of Safe and Sober

A 21-year-old nonprofit that works with youth to educate them about the dangers of drugs and alcohol is now under the purview of Community Partnership of the Ozarks Inc.

Safe and Sober Inc., which was founded in 2004 by attorney Kurt Larson, has become part of CPO's Prevention & Youth Support Division effective Sept. 30, according to a news release. Safe and Sober will be led by Program Director Brandon Jason, whose LinkedIn profile indicates he joined CPO in August after nine years with the Christian County Library.

“As I approach the fourth quarter of my life, I knew it was time to step back from Safe and Sober,” Larson said in the release. "I find great comfort in knowing this program – something that has become a true ministry to me – will continue in the capable hands of Community Partnership of the Ozarks. At CPO, prevention isn’t a side project; it’s their day job."

Safe and Sober this year is bringing its programming to 1,200 schools and youth-serving organizations nationwide, including 459 schools in Missouri. The organization has seen a 61% increase in Missouri participation and 45% increase in nationwide participation since 2024.

“Safe and Sober shares our mission of building healthier communities through prevention," CPO President and CEO Janet Dankert said in the release. "Together, we will strengthen and expand the reach of this important work, ensuring more young people have the tools to make safe and healthy choices.”

Safe and Sober's operating budget of $450,000 is adding to CPO's budget of $10.3 million, said Melody Shuck, vice president of communications for CPO. Shuck said 75% of Safe and Sober’s budget is funded by a Missouri Department of Transportation grant, with fundraising and scholarships needed to make up the difference.

Jason is one of 69 employees at CPO, Shuck said.