The committee engaged in a discussion about the mental health training program for high school students at Princeton High School. This initiative aims to equip students, particularly sophomores, with the skills to recognize mental health symptoms in themselves and their peers, similar to emergency response training. The program includes six classes, each lasting between 30 to 45 minutes, with the first class expected to commence in December. This timeline allows for five classes plus a makeup session, addressing past challenges in maintaining student engagement. Members highlighted the importance of this initiative in fostering a supportive school environment and acknowledged ongoing efforts to secure grant funding for mental health expenses.

Turning attention to Red Ribbon Week, scheduled from October 23 to October 31, the Alliance finalized plans to promote drug-free lifestyles among students. Two thematic options were considered: “Life is a puzzle, solve it drug-free” and “The best version of me is drug-free.” After deliberation, the latter was chosen for its positive message. The committee opted to distribute tattoos rather than stickers during the event, reflecting student preferences. Last year’s expenditure for Red Ribbon Week was $265, and this year’s budget was set at $350, with all members present approving the allocation.

Additionally, the Alliance discussed plans for Halloween activities on October 31. Proposals included distributing Smarties candy packs, with a $200 budget request to cover 500 pieces, and considering stress balls for student engagement. Both expenses were unanimously approved.

The meeting also reviewed the successful execution of National Night Out and Kbury Day. Members praised the community involvement and noted the Municipal Alliance’s contributions, such as the health tent and cannabis vision impairment goggles, which served as an educational tool to highlight the dangers of cannabis use. Feedback from the event suggested it was a powerful experience, especially for children, and the committee expressed interest in repeating this activity in future events.

World Mental Health Day, scheduled for October 10, was another topic of interest. In previous years, the Alliance collaborated with local health services to provide vaccinations at the library, drawing significant foot traffic. However, the absence of the vaccination van this year led to a debate on whether to recognize the day without it. Concerns were raised about reduced visitor turnout without the van’s presence, prompting the committee to explore whether the library had other activities planned for the occasion.

The committee also explored the topic of opioid issues within the aging population, an area of growing concern. The New Jersey Healthy Aging Summit will host a conference on opioid safety, emphasizing the necessity of addressing opioid challenges faced by seniors. This conversation underscored the need for the Alliance to broaden its focus beyond younger populations to include older adults in its ongoing discussions and initiatives.

Finally, the meeting addressed future plans and potential speakers for upcoming events. While the current year’s budget cycle was already planned, members were encouraged to seek out speakers who could contribute to discussions on drug prevention and education. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was unanimously agreed upon by all present.