Youth advocates, educators, behavioral health leaders and community members gathered during National Prevention Week.
National Prevention Week, led by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of substance misuse prevention and mental health promotion. Communities across the country use the week to highlight the power of prevention through education, advocacy and community collaboration. National Prevention Week encourages organizations, schools, youth leaders and community members to come together to support healthy lifestyles and strengthen the wellbeing of individuals and families through proactive prevention efforts.
Genesee County Prevention Coalition led the initiative for the Genesee area with the Canvas for Change Townhall. The Canvas of Change Townhall was held at the Southern Lakes Branch of Mott Community College to bring together the youth and leadership helping address the health concerns that impact youth today. The guest had the opportunity to review community feedback on the issues and engage in dialogue about potential causes as well as solutions. Many solutions sat in the room with representatives from behavioral health providers, advocacy organizers, education leadership, and youth advocates attending to share their insight.
The Youth Action Council led with their insight earlier in the week from their Photovoice research project on “How do you see marijuana shaping moments in your community” which was displayed amongst 44 pieces of submitted youth artwork. The exhibit highlighted how young people creatively express perspectives on mental health, substance use and community challenges.
In addition to the art displays, the evening also included a panel discussion featuring two youth panelists, Emma Smith and Brayley West, as well as two adults, Carrie Chanter from Genesee Health System and Principal R.J. Kaplan from Swartz Creek Middle School. Each shared personal experiences and discussed the importance of community collaboration in supporting young people. “Shout out to GCPC because we have our Youth Action Council and we are making moments and doing the things we are supposed to” stated Emma Smith.
Leading up to the event, GCPC conducted a community norms survey to better understand local perspectives surrounding substance use and mental health. Participants attending Canvas of Change described it as an important starting point for strengthening partnerships between schools, community organizations and residents throughout Genesee County.
A mental health coloring book created by Fenton High School art class was released at the Townhall displayed the collaborative efforts the Genesee County Prevention Coalition is putting forth. The GCPC supported the book development to provide families and youth with an accessible mental health resource while encouraging creativity and self-expression.
