Chatham MACC
Fostering a Connected Community to Prevent Underage and Substance Use Disorders
Youth Programs
Programs aimed at preventing underage drinking and substance abuse among youth are vital for building healthier communities. By engaging young people in initiatives focused on education, prevention, and support, we not only work to reduce harmful behaviors but also empower youth to address the underlying challenges surrounding substance use disorders. Through these programs, young individuals can develop valuable life skills, resilience, and a sense of responsibility, contributing to the creation of safer, more supportive environments for everyone. Overall, investing in such initiatives not only benefits the well-being of young people but also strengthens the foundation of our communities.
Parents Who Host Lose The Most is a public health media campaign that was created by Prevention Action Alliance. Parents Who Host helps you prevent underage drinking in your community by targeting young people’s access to and the availability of alcohol. It reminds parents throughout the community that it is unhealthy, unsafe, and unacceptable to provide alcohol to young people. In Chatham, lawn signs and banners are displayed the weeks before prom and graduation.
Sticker Shock brings awareness towards underage drinking by displaying stickers on beer/seltzer packaging as a "warning label". The stickers inform the public of the consequences they can face if they provide or purchase alcohol for minors. The students of HOPE visited Bottle King and Cottage Deli and Wine February 8, 2024 before the Superbowl to discourage adults from giving alcohol to minors.
Kind Minds
February is Random Acts of Kindness Month. Research shows that helping others can be good for our mental health. On February 2, 2024 students of HOPE ran a table at Chatham High School encouraging students to write down their "random act of kindness". Kindness tokens and kindness calendars were handed out to students that participated. The goal of this Kind Minds was to spread kindness throughout the school through a small gesture or a compliment.
Marijuana Public Health Campaign
Driving under the influence of marijuana impairs cognitive functions, reaction times, and coordination, which are crucial for safe driving. This increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities for both the driver and others on the road. The students of HOPE participated in this public health campaign to bring awareness to the dangers of driving "high" by putting stickers and table tents at local restaurant in Chatham.
The Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute (LMTI) is a youth leadership program on a mission to make change. Each school year, HOPE students and other Chatham students are nominated to attended this five day sleep away camp dedicated to providing young people with opportunities to become strong leaders.