October is National Youth Substance Use Prevention Month and the Protect Our Youth Coalition extends deep appreciation to the Town of Fountain Hills Community Center for dedicating space to celebrating local youth and their substance-prevention efforts.

Through the month of October, the coalition presents an exhibition at the Community Center showcasing the talents of Fountain Hills youth but also the network of caring adults, generous partners and local organizations that make prevention possible.

This month-long display invites residents to step inside and experience the creativity, courage and commitment of young people through art, essays and activities that highlight their community’s dedication to help families build resilience and live drug-free lives.

“This exhibition is a reminder that prevention begins with connection and community,” says POY Director Tammy Bell. “Each essay and piece of artwork reflects a vital truth: young people can learn and express what it means to live a drug-free life when they feel supported by trusted adults.”

Research shows that adults often struggle to start conversations with children about drugs and alcohol — yet those simple talks can make a lifelong difference, a press release read.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, young people who learn about the dangers of substances from their parents are up to 50% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t.

By encouraging families to have open, age-appropriate conversations, this presentation aims to replace discomfort with confidence, the release added.

Residents are invited to visit the Fountain Hills Community Center throughout October to experience the exhibit, celebrate local youth and take away inspiration for building a healthier, more connected, drug-free community.

For information, visit fhcoalition.org.