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In this Issue:
- News
- Events & Webinars
- Community Resources
- Los Recursos Familial en Español
- Family Resources in English
- Job Opportunities
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Spotlight On: Light and Unite Red Week 2025 | |
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Monday, March 17, begins Light and Unite Red Week, a week of promoting community-wide substance use prevention education in conjunction with National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week. Each year, partners across Milwaukee County join forces and host events, workshops, and other learning opportunities to help address youth alcohol and other drug use in communities nationwide.
This year’s theme is MythBusters! RISE Drug Free MKE and community partners will be focusing on debunking common myths about alcohol and other drug use through social media and in-person events. We want to remind our community’s youth that they can’t believe everything they hear in the school hallways or online. Curiosity around substance use is normal, but we want to make sure they are getting information from reliable sources.
Light and Unite Red Week kicks off with Make Milwaukee County Red. If you live or work in Milwaukee County and want to support healthy, substance-free living in your community, wear red on Monday, March 17, and attend events throuhgout the week. You can find a list of Light and Unite Red events and resources on the RISE Drug Free MKE website.
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Share Your News in the Prevention Journal | |
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Calling all Community Partners: Do you have upcoming events, news to share, or job openings? Email the information to prevention@communityadvocates.net to be featured in upcoming Prevention Journals sent to over 1,000 friends, colleagues, and social service providers every other week.
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The American Psychological Association (APA) Guide for Parents Aims to Help Teens Choose Video Content Mindfully | |
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Online videos are a central part of teen culture and parents are increasingly looking for ways to guide their children toward healthier viewing habits. The American Psychological Association (APA) has released an updated resource to help families navigate the digital landscape, offering insights on setting boundaries, fostering critical thinking, and encouraging mindful media consumption. This latest guide builds on previous recommendations, emphasizing that the type of content teens engage with can have just as much impact as the time they spend watching.
With the rise of short-form videos, viral challenges, and algorithm-driven content, it’s more important than ever for parents to stay informed and involved. The APA’s guide provides actionable tips to help parents have open conversations with their teens, promote positive digital habits, and create a balanced approach to screen time. By staying engaged and proactive, parents can empower their teens to make healthier choices in an increasingly digital world.
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'Targeted Initiative': Milwaukee County's Overdose Dashboard Aims to Lower Drug Deaths with Data | |
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The opioid crisis continues to devastate communities across the country, but targeted, data-driven solutions offer hope for reversing this trend. In Milwaukee County, a new initiative seeks to reduce drug-related deaths through the use of real-time data. As highlighted in a recent WUWM report, local officials have launched an overdose dashboard designed to track drug-related incidents, identify high-risk areas, and deploy resources more effectively. By leveraging this data, the county aims to intervene more quickly and prevent fatal overdoses before they happen.
This initiative represents a shift toward proactive public health strategies that address substance use disorders with precision and urgency. Rather than relying solely on broad policies, Milwaukee County’s approach tailors interventions to the communities most in need, ensuring that harm reduction efforts reach those at the highest risk. As the opioid epidemic evolves, innovative solutions like this dashboard could serve as a model for other regions looking to save lives through data-driven decision-making.
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Marijuana Legalization and the Prevention of Youth Cannabis Use
Wednesday, March 12
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The NAADAC is hosting a live, interactive webinar that will explore the impact of marijuana legalization on youth, focusing on potential risks, benefits, and the role of prevention and education strategies. We will examine the latest research on how legalization influences youth behavior, mental health, and developmental outcomes. The session aims to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the trends in youth marijuana use post-legalization, the effects of THC on the adolescent brain, and effective intervention and treatment strategies. The webinar will be held from 2-3:30 p.m. on March 12.
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Wisconsin Day of Empathy: Transforming Supervision
Thursday, March 13
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Join the Milwaukee Turners for a legislative day at the Wisconsin State Capitol to uplift your voice alongside justice impacted people, families, and allies to discuss with legislators how supervision (probation, parole and extended supervision) should be changed to transform our state toward public safety and thriving communities for all people. This event is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on March 13.
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QPR Question Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention Training
Thursday, March 13
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We can all save lives. The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. Community Advocates Public Policy Institute believes that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background, to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know. This two-hour interactive introduction to suicide awareness and prevention will also cover statistics and intervention strategies. The session is 9 to 10:30 a.m. on March 13.
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Courage in Connection
Tuesday, March 18
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The Milwaukee Turners, as part of Light and Unite Red Week, is hosting an Adult Substance Abuse Recovery Support Circle. Attend to learn coping skills, enjoy recreational activities, and receive support from others in recovery. The circle meets every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. at Turner Hall at 1040 N. Vel R Phillips Ave. For more information, please contact Connie at connie@milwaukeeturners.org or 414-604-6311.
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ECOM Workshop: Legal Services
Wednesday, March 19
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The Empowerment Coalition of Milwaukee (ECOM) is a monthly gathering of social services professionals, advocates, and consumers organized by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute. ECOM explores topics that are vital to Milwaukee’s human services professionals. Each session features multiple presentations from experts and opportunities to share resources.
This month’s topic is Legal Services.
Fee is $5 for light refreshments and materials and can be paid via credit card. Registrations are not refundable. Kindly make sure to RSVP by Friday, March 14. This ECOM Workshop will be held at Community Advocates at 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid
Wednesday, March 19
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Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who might be experiencing a mental health challenge or is in crisis.
Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
This Light and Unite Red Week training hosted by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 19 and will be held via Zoom.
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Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga
Wednesday, March 19
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As part of Light and Unite Red Week, Franklin Health Department and Volition Franklin are hosting Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga.
Ignite your inner light! Celebrate wellness and positive energy during Light & Unite Red Week. Feel uplifted as you connect with a community of supportive people who are improving their lives by remaining free of drugs and alcohol. This event is free and open to everyone over the age 13. Please bring your own yoga mat.
The class will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on March 19 at the Briscoe Family YMCA Wellness Center at 7095 S. Ballpark Drive in Franklin.
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Ready to Rescue
Sunday, March 23
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Join Fight Anxiety, Addiction and Adversity Corp with UMatter and Vivent Health for a crucial training under their Ready Rescue Initiative. This event is designed to equip community members with life-saving skills to respond to crisis effectively. The event will host QPR Suicide Prevention Training and Narcan Administration Training. All participants will receive official certifications and recognition as a Ready Rescue Guard. There is a $10 registration fee that will be fully refunded upon attendance. The event is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. on March 23 at Tippecanoe Branch Library Community Room, 3912 S. Howell Ave., Milwaukee.
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Adult Mental Health First Aid
Friday, March 21
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Join Community Advocates Public Policy Institute for Adult Mental Health First Aid during Light and Unite Red Week. Mental Health First Aid teaches you how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders. This training gives you the skills you need to reach out and provide initial support to someone who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care. Please note that this training requires two hours of self-paced content that must be completed prior to the instructor-led training.
The training will be held from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on March 21 via Zoom.
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Sip Responsibly and Paint
Friday, March 21
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Join Safe & Sound, Inc. for a night of mocktails and paint brushes to help shine a light on addiction as part of Light and Unite Red Week. Sip Responsibly and Paint is free, open to the public, and family friendly. This event is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. on March 21 and will be held at Safe & Sound, Inc. at 4422 W. Leon Terrace in Milwaukee.
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The Phoenix Yoga
Saturday, March 22, and Sunday, March 23
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Come as you are for some self-care, renewal and community. The Phoenix is hosting two yoga classes as part of Light and Unite Red Week. The Phoenix has intricately woven together a magical mix of āsana, sacred connection, yoga nidra, and reiki. Stay after for processing, tea, and oracle card readings. Both classes will be held at the Milwaukee Alano Club at 1521 N. Prospect Ave. in Milwaukee.
Saturday’s class is scheduled from 12 noon to 2 p.m.
Sunday’s class is scheduled from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
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Learn-Listen-Love
Thursday, April 3
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Throughout Wisconsin, April is recognized as Family Strengthening Month. The Parenting Network (TPN) is hosting their annual Learn, Listen, Love event to celebrate the joys of parenting. Renew your commitment to strengthening Milwaukee families. Meet local author and illustrator, Aaron Boyd, and listen as he reflects on his childhood and his journey to parenthood.
This event will be held at 6 p.m. on April 3 at the Wisconsin Club at 900 W. Wisconsin Ave.
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Teaching Cannabis Awareness and Prevention Conference
Wednesday, April 9, and Thursday, April 10
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Stanford Medicine is hosting their 6th Annual Teaching Cannabis (and Other Drugs) Awareness and Prevention Virtual Conference for anyone working with youth to learn about the latest research on youth and their use of cannabis and other drugs. The virtual conference is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 9 and 10.
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2025 Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit
Tuesday May 6 - Thursday, May 8
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You are invited to join the Wisconsin Department of Health and Services – Division of Care and Treatment Services to learn strategies to save lives and build healthy communities. The Opioids, Stimulants, and Trauma Summit is an annual event that highlights prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery strategies related to opioids, stimulants, and trauma. This event is tailored for professionals spanning diverse fields, including corrections agents, counselors, doctors, educators, mental health service providers, nurses, pharmacists, peer specialists, recovery coaches, and social workers. It will be held virtually and in-person at Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells, on May 6 through May 8. Early bird prices run through March 7.
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2025 Wisconsin Harm Reduction Conference
Wednesday, July 16, and Thursday, July 17
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The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has opened registration for the 2025 Wisconsin Harm Reduction Conference at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells, with a virtual option. The conference aims to provide safe spaces for the exchange of ideas and cutting-edge practices that reduce harms associated with drug use, create networking opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds committed to program and policy change and reform, promote the delivery of harm reduction services in Wisconsin and Tribal nations that engage people who use drugs to support connection, safety, and improved quality of life, and provide the opportunity to discuss the benefits of harm reduction, best practices, resources, policies, and areas needing development and support. The conference will be held on July 16 and 17.
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Hey, there,
-- do you have:
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Job openings?
- Upcoming events?
- News to share?
- Suggestions?
Forward the information to Prevention@CommunityAdvocates.net.
Thank you for your service to Milwaukee!
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Digital Toolkit for Brain Awareness Week
Brain Awareness Week is a campaign that promotes enthusiasm and support for brain science. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has created and published resources for you to download and share to help educate the public and inspire the next generation. Click here to view NIMH's sample messages.
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Safe & Sound, Inc. Community Resource Guide
Safe & Sound's March 2025 Community Resource Guide is filled with helpful, community-based information. From food, health, and housing resources to community events, it’s an essential download you’ll want to share with your networks. Click here to check it out.
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Los Recursos Familial en Español | |
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Mitos versus hechos: Consumo de alcohol por menores de edad
Probablemente has visto y escuchado mucho sobre el alcohol en la televisión, el cine, la música, los medios sociales, y entre tus amigos. Pero ¿cuál es la verdad de la cuestión? Aquí hay algunos mitos y hechos sobre el uso del alcohol de la SAMHSA.
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Caja de Herramientas para la Salud Mental
La comunidad hispana o latina de Estados Unidos es enormemente diversa. Los retos a los que se enfrenta son asimismo considerables y de una naturaleza igualmente diversa. Los recursos de salud mental están disponibles pero son limitados. La comunidad latina permanece desatendida en gran medida. La Asociación Nacional Latina de Salud Mental (NLBHA por sus siglas en inglés) está comprometida con la defensa, el apoyo y la oferta de recursos en respuesta a estas necesidades. Haga clic aquí para ver la caja de herramientas de salud mental.
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Family Resources in English | |
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Focus on Fathers: A Dad-Driven Support Group
Focus on Fathers is an ongoing peer support group where men receive support and share their experiences in a safe, confidential environment. Topics include self-care, stress reduction, parenting and co-parenting, child development, men’s health, and more! Focus on Fathers meets on the first Thursday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Office of African American Affairs at 4830 W. Fond du Lac Ave. Contact David Comer at dacome@milwaukee.gov or 414-286-6636 to join.
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Mom 2 Mom
Mom 2 Mom is a safe, judgement free, support group for moms and birthing people to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Upcoming topics include Infant Feeding & Nutrition on April 1, Parenting Reflections on May 6, and Self-Care & Emotional Wellbeing on June 3. The group meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Washington Park Library at 2121 N. Sherman Boulevard. Contact Katie Lopez at kalopez@milwaukee.gov or 414-758-0661 to join.
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Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery
Are you worried about your drinking or other drug use? You aren’t alone. The Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery (POWER) is here to help. The Milwaukee Women’s Center’s POWER provides FREE day treatment for women struggling with alcohol and other drug issues. Click here to learn more or call 414-270-4600 to get help.
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