A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the presentation by Anand Lennox, who outlined the coalition’s mission to prevent and reduce youth substance use in Longmeadow. One of the coalition’s standout initiatives is the Distractology study, developed in partnership with the University of Massachusetts. This project involves a mobile trailer equipped with driving simulation labs, where students experience impaired driving conditions through goggles simulating impaired vision. The goal is to highlight the dangers of impaired driving, especially concerning legal marijuana use in Massachusetts. Participating students receive stipends, and the initiative has gained media attention for its innovative approach. Pre- and post-surveys help assess changes in students’ perceptions of impaired driving risks, addressing the misconception that some can drive better while impaired.

In another collaborative effort, the coalition joined forces with the Longmeadow Police Department and Tapestry Health to conduct Narcan distribution and training sessions. These sessions aim to educate the community about the use of Naloxone, a medication capable of reversing opioid overdoses. The training sessions reached a diverse audience, including parents, individuals connected to substance use challenges, and even an Uber driver seeking to carry Narcan after witnessing an overdose incident.

The board also discussed their Narcan distribution program, which takes place biannually in May and September. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote substance-free environments for the youth and support parents. Despite the efforts to engage the community, attendance at virtual presentations for parents, organized in collaboration with Mass Partners for Youth, has been disappointing. These presentations focus on relevant topics such as vaping and marijuana, yet have seen low participation, with some sessions canceled due to insufficient registration.

The board continues to promote the Safe Homes initiative, encouraging parents of 6th to 12th graders to pledge not to serve alcohol or drugs at teenage gatherings. This non-binding pledge aims to raise awareness of the legal risks associated with serving alcohol to minors and fosters a supportive network among parents. A December gathering is planned for pledge participants to share experiences and build community connections.

Educational efforts extended to the social host law, clarifying the legal implications for parents serving alcohol to minors. The board emphasized that while offering alcohol to one’s own children is legal, serving their friends is not and can result in legal consequences. This messaging aims to reassure parents that most do not condone teen drinking and encourages healthy choices among youth.

The board has also focused on educating the community about Naloxone’s safety and efficacy. Misconceptions about the medication are addressed, highlighting that it is safe even if administered to someone not experiencing an overdose. Educational mailings about Naloxone were distributed to K-12 families to enhance awareness and preparedness.

In December, the board plans a public event at the adult center featuring Dr. Ari Creggsman, focusing on evolving medical approaches to substance use disorders and Naloxone’s importance. This event targets older adults who might be managing opioid prescriptions, addressing intergenerational concerns about substance use.

Youth engagement remains a priority, with 35 students participating in leadership training. These students contributed to the Distractology project and conducted their first peer presentation at Williams Middle School, educating peers on social norms regarding drug use. Future plans include offering lessons to fifth graders on decision-making skills and healthy relationships. Additionally, a junior club at Glenbrook is working on educational skits addressing bullying, gender discrimination, and self-esteem.

In a broader outreach effort, the board participated in a workshop at Southern New Hampshire University, providing resources on vape prevention and education for other community coalitions. A future event for caregivers is planned during the 8th-grade parent night on February 26, featuring a panel of experienced parents discussing high school life challenges and support strategies for students.