December 2024

Happy December Prevention Champions!

Welcome to the Henrico Area Prevention Services Monthly Newsletter!

As 2024 comes to a close, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported Henrico Prevention Services this year. Whether you engaged in our programs, shared prevention resources, or simply championed wellness in your community, your efforts have made a tremendous impact. Together, we've strengthened protective factors, reduced risks, and empowered individuals and families to thrive.

❄️✨❄️✨

As we prepare to welcome 2025, we’re inspired by the progress we’ve made and the momentum we’ve built. Prevention is a continuous journey, and with your partnership, we’re ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead. Thank you for being part of this meaningful work. 

Environmental Strategies

As the holiday season approaches, it’s a crucial time to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs not only puts the driver at risk but also endangers passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers on the road. Every year, impaired driving claims thousands of lives, and most of these tragedies are preventable.

Together, we can make a difference by promoting safe, sober driving and encouraging everyone to plan ahead for a designated driver or alternate transportation if they choose to celebrate. Let’s keep our roads safe for everyone this holiday season.

Click on the images above to learn more about the risks of impaired driving and find resources to help spread awareness.

Gift Responsibly Campaign aims to prevent underage gambling and promote responsible gift-giving.

Gambling exposure during childhood is often through some kind of lottery product, given by an adult who is likely unaware of the associated risks.

This holiday season, remember to #GiftResponsibly. Lottery Tickets aren’t child’s play.

Here's what we've been up to...



11/1: VCU CONNECT 2024 Conference

11/12: Prevention Staff Training

11/19: DBHDS Site Visit

11/21: Virginia Youth Mental Health Summit

Staff from Henrico Prevention Services had the privilege of attending Governor Youngkin’s Virginia Youth Mental Health Summit, where the theme was "Reclaiming Childhood." This vital event focused on understanding the challenges our youth face, particularly the impact of social media on childhood development, and explored actionable solutions for parents, educators, and community workers.

From expert panels to insightful discussions, the summit provided resources to help us better support our children’s mental well-being. Let’s work together to protect their childhood and empower them to thrive!

Explore the links below to learn more and get resources.

Governor Youngkin announces task force to combat youth social media addiction at Henrico summit.

Reclaiming Childhood Site

Executive Order 33

Executive Order 43

11/22: Crysto Rey Richmond HS Mental Health & Wellness Fair

Connect Corner

All CONNECT Programs will operate at some capacity during Winter Break.

Please contact your Program Coordinator for the schedule.

We wish ALL of our families a Happy and Safe Holiday Season.

Henrico Arms Connect

We are incredibly thankful for our partnership with Dr. Kendra Johnson and the Department of Teaching & Learning at Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Education. Thirteen outstanding VCU students have made a meaningful impact by supporting Henrico Arms CONNECT students through homework assistance, engaging creative activities, and a memorable field trip to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens. Their dedication is inspiring, and we are so fortunate to have them as part of our community!

Youth Ambassadors

Dec.11: Winter gathering at The Oak. See your program coordinator for more details.

Henrico Too Smart 2 Start Coalition Corner



Henrico Too Smart 2 Start Coalition is a 501 (C) 3 Non-Profit Organization that promotes health and wellness in Henrico County with a primary focus on reducing youth substance abuse through education, advocacy and capacity building. Membership consists of individuals from the 12 sectors, in Henrico County, listed below. The coalition will meet, in person, December 20th and January 17th, 12:00pm-1:30pm, location TBD. If you would like more information about Too Smart 2 Start Coalition, please email henricotoosmart2start@gmail.com

News the Henrico Community Can Use!

*Please note* all communications coming from Henrico County general government employees will be from an @henrico.gov domain. Additionally, the new Prevention website URL is https://prevention.henrico.gov/.

Please be sure to update your contact information.

Henrico Recreation and Parks

12/10: Henrico Holiday Express 24: Three Chopt & Tuckahoe

12/11: Henrico Holiday Express 24: Varina

12/12: Henrico Holiday Express 24: Brookland & Fairfield

12/14: Varina Big Toy Christmas Parade

Henrico County Public Schools and FEV Tutor partner to provide students in grades 3-12 with high-quality, division-sponsored virtual tutoring and homework help. FEV Tutor delivers live, one-to-one support to help students grow academically. 

More Information

Action for Happiness

This December, let’s embrace the spirit of giving and positivity with the Do Good December Calendar from Action for Happiness. Each day features simple acts of kindness to brighten someone’s day and create ripples of positivity in your community. 💙 Let’s finish the year by making a difference, one good deed at a time!

🌟 Find the calendar and join the movement here: Action for Happiness

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

Henrico Prevention offers various FREE community-based trainings supporting mental health awareness, substance use prevention, and wellness.

See additional trainings below, offered by our Community Partners.

Visit BeWellVA.com for regional training opportunities.

Be Well VA is the Community Services Boards Office on Prevention regional approach to bring awareness to the increasing number of deaths by suicide and promote wellness for life. We are a local resource to help you find your path to emotional well-being. Find out what’s happening in your community, learn more, and BE WELL Virginia!

Henrico Prevention thrives on your input and engagement. We invite you to share your thoughts on our newsletter—what you loved, what you'd like to see more of, and any ideas for future content. Your valuable feedback helps us tailor our communications to better serve your needs and interests.