Maximizing All Potentials

Two middle school students writing at a desk

Established in 1984, Maximizing All Potentials (MAPS) is a research, public service, and training program dedicated to the prevention of drug and alcohol problems among youth, the promotion of adolescent mental health, and the development of capable young people. MAPS works with schools, families, communities, children, and adolescents in a variety of settings. As a result of our long-standing service throughout Western Pennsylvania, we continue to grow and establish a multitude of evidence-based programming supporting and meeting the needs of all populations.

Additionally, we were active in the development of the Student Assistance Program and Evaluation Framework. Since its inception, MAPS has been an integral component of not only school SAP teams, but also an extension to services offered to students outside the scope of SAP (specifically Tiers 2 and 3).

MAPS is a program of the University of Pittsburgh School of Education and Allegheny County Drug and Alcohol Prevention Programs. MAPS is certified by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Health, Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs.

Program Overview

The MAPS Program focuses on strengthening protective factors, fostering resilience, and equipping students with practical skills for managing emotions, building healthy relationships, and navigating challenges. We also provide resources and guidance for families, ensuring that the support system extends beyond the school environment.

Our staff has experience providing a range of supports and interventions to K-12 students from universal programming to intensive and individualized supports as indicated.

Below is a listing of some examples of services we have provided to schools throughout Western PA.

Given the education, background, and experience of our team, including certifications in areas such as Life Coaching, Threat Assessment, and youth development, we can draw from a variety of resources to customize supports within school districts and communities. 

MAPS Tiered LEvels of Support

Gambling Awareness and Prevention has been a long standing focus and initiative of MAPS. Throughout the year we connect with senior centers across Allegheny county to provide presentations (Gambling Away the Golden Years) education and resources regarding responsible gambling, risk factors and where to turn for support. We also address the current rise in gambling, gaming, social media use and sports betting across all populations and offer an educational curriculum (Kids/Teens and Technology) in schools and community settings.

Community Collaborations

MAPS understands the importance of community collaborations and values our relationships and partnerships across Western PA. Through these partnerships, MAPS has been able to enhance programming, expand our reach and serve a wider, more diverse population. MAPS has learned from our community partners and has also conducted presentations and trainings to and alongside various organizations throughout our region.

It is our goal to spread education, and awareness in order to better serve at-risk individuals and help those we work with reach their full potential. We are always looking to grow our community engagement and partnerships.

Some of our partnerships include:

  • Teen Mental Health Collaborative 
  • Allegheny Family Network
  • Boys & Girls Club
  • Crossroads Foundation
  • The Mentoring Partnership
  • The Caring Place
  • Hugh Lane Wellness
  • UPStreet Pittsburgh
  • Jewish HealthCare Foundation
  • Mindful Matters Counseling Group
  • CitiParks, Pittsburgh’s Park and Recreation
  • Carnegie Libraries
  • LifeSpan Active Life Centers

Contact Us

Connect with us to follow the latest news and updates from MAPS.

Dana Heisel, Program Manager
dana.heisel@pitt.edu

MAPS Office Line: (412) 648-7124

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