Action Steps to Take

– List of Community Meetings and Times – There are many groups in town working to prevent substance abuse, reduce mental health stigma, etc. and make our community better. They would love for faith leaders to be involved!

– Pray for people who are suffering from a substance use disorder or mental health condition in prayers in private, in services, on prayer chains, in newsletters, etc. (Please be mindful of the words used in these prayers so as not to contribute to stigmas.) Be sure to practice confidentiality and not pray for people specifically, by name, etc. without their permission.

– Make members of your community aware that there are Prescription Drop Box locations in the community to properly dispose of unused or expired medications.

– One way to prevent substance abuse among youth is by providing them with fun, safe, healthy, and positive activities to do instead. Youth Connections aims to put on some alternative activities for kids and we could always use help with these. The Last Day Bash is a big party for high school students on the last day of school. Typically, the last day of school has been a high drinking day, so we want to provide students with a fun, safe way to kick off their summer break and celebrate their accomplishments during the school year! In the past, there have been activities like a slip ‘n’ slide, rock wall, knocker balls, watergun fights, water balloon volleyball, and the like. Food is also provided to students. The event is free, and any high school students are welcome. Would you be willing to run an activity for kids? Do you have ideas for planning? Can you donate a game, your time to volunteer, or money so you can make a difference for these kids? Email Coleen at [email protected] Even if you can’t be there day of, could you encourage the high school students in your faith community to attend?

– Join the Core REAL Team to help continue the REAL Community Project, have a say in the topics and speakers at next year’s Forum, and build relationships with others in the community. Email [email protected]