The ConnectEd program, run by MVP Recovery, has experienced a remarkable increase in youth engagement, with participation rising over 450% in just one year. As of October 17, 2025, the program has helped 246 adolescents in Delaware County facing substance use or mental health issues, successfully linking 78% of them to treatment and resources in real-time. This number increased to 282 by October 29, with an impressive linking rate of 80%.
Brian Corson, founder of MVP Recovery, highlighted the program’s community impact, stating, “The ConnectEd program has helped a family in almost every township, borough, and city in Delaware County.” As substance abuse and mental health concerns grow nationwide, Delaware County is not immune to the crisis. Corson noted that 68% of those contacting ConnectEd reported mental health disorders, while 30% had co-occurring disorders involving both mental health and substance use issues.
Community Support and Program Growth
Kayla Taylor, coordinator of ConnectEd, expressed optimism about future engagement, suggesting the program could surpass 300 adolescents. The Delaware County Council Chair, Dr. Monica Taylor, praised the program, acknowledging its role in breaking down barriers to support for young people. “I applaud you for the work that you’re doing,” she said, reflecting on the program’s expansion since its inception.
The ConnectEd initiative emerged from the Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools survey, which identified essential support needs for local schools. Spearheaded by District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, the program aims to connect youth directly to critical services, operating 24/7 at 855-MVP-2410. It serves individuals up to age 18, transitioning them to the established Warm Hand Off program as needed.
Corson emphasized the importance of data collection, stating, “What this program allows us to do is it also allows us to collect data and outcomes here in Delaware County.” The program has identified alcohol, marijuana, and vaping as the top three substances used by adolescents. Corson remarked on the troubling trend of younger children experimenting with vaping, highlighting its potential long-term health effects.
Addressing New Drug Trends
ConnectEd has also encountered alarming trends involving more dangerous substances. Corson reported that five teenagers reached out regarding fentanyl use, with three mixing it with Benadryl, a combination that poses serious risks of sedation and overdose. “I think it’s so new that there’s not even a street name for it yet,” he explained, underscoring the need for awareness among stakeholders.
The program focuses on prevention as much as intervention. Corson stated, “Being able to engage with these individuals when they’re kids… is crucial to preventing negative consequences related to mental health and substance use disorders.” Collaboration among county leaders, the Department of Human Services, and local school districts is vital to this mission.
Outreach efforts include presentations and seminars in schools and community organizations, with 25 conducted in 2025 alone. Brian Flatley, MVP’s Adolescent Program coordinator, leads these initiatives, utilizing his background in professional wrestling to connect with young audiences.
When families reach out for help, either Taylor or her staff will triage the call to determine the best course of action, ensuring that those in need receive timely assistance. MVP Recovery has also developed its own Adolescent Outpatient program to address the long wait times often associated with state insurance, allowing individuals to begin treatment within 48 hours.
Corson concluded, “Real recovery doesn’t just happen in treatment. It happens at home.” The ConnectEd program not only provides counseling and therapy but also case management support for broader needs, such as sports registration and after-school activities, reinforcing its commitment to holistic youth support in Delaware County.
