Who We Are

Human Understanding & Growth Services, Inc. (HUGS, Inc.), a New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) licensed agency, provides individuals, families, schools, and communities with prevention education strategies aimed at reducing high-risk behaviors among individuals while fostering wellness and positive attitudes to improve all areas of life. 

HUGS Inc. delivers programs supported by national experts and research as having a proven effect on reducing risk factors and building protective factors in individuals who receive them. HUGS staff provides customized workshops, presentations, assemblies, parent education, and training designed to address to diverse needs of Suffolk County communities including alcohol and drug trends and substance misuse, gambling, societal pressures, resilience, team-building, leadership, and empowerment.

HUGS also operates the hugely popular Long Island Teen Institute, 48-hour leadership development, and substance misuse prevention training program for middle and high school students who are natural leaders or have leadership potential.