December 2024

SAPCA Members Elect Officers and Board of Directors

In November, SAPCA invited youth and adults to submit nomination applications to serve two-year terms as officers and members of the SAPCA Board. Board members help shape policy and strategy in the Alexandria community. After wrapping up the election process, conducted electronically this year, we are so excited to announce our Board of Directors:

Officers

• Chair: Allen Lomax, Independent Consultant
• Vice Chair: Kim Hyde Santucci, Marketing Consultant
• Treasurer: Fredy Martinez, Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) K-12 Substance Abuse Prevention and Intervention Coordinator 

Board of Directors

• Calvin O'Brien, Alexandria City High School (ACHS) student
• Keiry Cortez, ACHS sophomore
• Kristin Donley, ACPS Instructional Specialist for Health, PE, and Family Life Education
• Maureen McNulty, ACPS parent
• Safa Yosufzai, Human Services Specialist

SAPCA’s Board of Directors also includes three appointed positions:

• Sgt. Benjamin Saks, Alexandria Police Department
• Lt. Victor Ignacio, Alexandria Sheriff's Office
• Khamille Muhammad, ACHS junior, Peer Advocate

Thanks to the support of our members for selecting these individuals to serve our community for the next two years! SAPCA looks forward to continuing to work with our community to reduce and end youth substance use in Alexandria.

Volunteer Spotlight: Recognition of Outgoing SAPCA Board Members

As SAPCA welcomes returning and incoming Board members, we also extend our gratitude and appreciation to outgoing Board members Gabe Elias and Tom Gates.

During their time on the Board, Gabe and Tom used their knowledge, experience, and passion to support SAPCA in decreasing substance use in our community. While Tom drew from his professional experience in strategic planning to support the development of SAPCA's strategic action plan, Gabe -- an ACHS International Academy Teacher -- provided insight about the best ways to reach students.

We wish Gabe and Tom the best and are so appreciative of all their hard work during their involvement with SAPCA!

SAPCA Delivers Facts and Consequences Presentations to Bishop Ireton Students



On December 3 and 4, SAPCA coordinator Emma Beall and Opioid Work Group Coordinator Hope Sievers visited Bishop Ireton High School to deliver Facts and Consequences presentations to 112 freshmen. During these presentations, youth learned about the health, legal, and social consequences of using alcohol, e-cigarettes, marijuana, and prescription and over-the-counter medication. Students also discussed healthy ways to cope with stress.

SAPCA is appreciative of the opportunity to share important information with students in our community and looks forward to continuing to collaborate with Bishop Ireton High School in the future.

Interested in supporting SAPCA to deliver Facts and Consequences Presentations? 

Complete SAPCA's volunteer interest form to receive information about volunteer opportunities that align with your interests.

Five Things You Should Know about Impaired Driving

December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about the consequences of distracted driving, drugged driving, and drunk driving. Here are five things you should know about impaired driving:

1. Many substances can impair driving, including alcohol, marijuana, opioids, illegal drugs, and some prescription and over-the-counter medications.

2. Impaired drivers can’t correctly identify or recognize their own impairment, which is why no one should drive after using any impairing substances. Remember: If you feel different, you drive different.

3. Impaired driving is against the law in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Even in states where marijuana laws have changed, it is still illegal to drive after using marijuana.

4. Virginia law prohibits anyone under the age of 21 from purchasing, possessing, or consuming alcohol. Additionally, Virginia's zero tolerance law prohibits anyone under the age of 21 from operating a motor vehicle if they have been drinking alcohol.

5. We can all save lives by making smart choices. Here are some ways to stay safe this holiday season and year-round:

• Plan ahead for a sober ride home before a night out.
• Don't let friends or family members get behind the wheel if they are under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• Be a responsible host by making sure all guests leave with a sober ride. If providing alcohol, only serve individuals age 21 or older.
• If you are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, find out the potential effects the drugs could have on your driving before getting behind the wheel.
• Always wear your seat belt -- it's your best defense against impaired drivers.

Learn more about impaired driving here.

Tips for Maintaining a Safe Home for the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and connection. However, amidst the festive spirit, it's crucial to keep safety at the forefront. Check out these practical tips from Informed Families to ensure your home remains safe and welcoming for all this holiday season and year-round:

Secure Medications and Alcoholic Beverages

The holidays often bring together family members of all ages, making it vital to consider the safety of children and teenagers. One key step is securing any medications and alcoholic beverages. This not only prevents accidental ingestions but also discourages underage drinking. Consider using locked cabinets or special storage areas to keep these items out of reach. The Department of Community and Human Services offers free locking medication boxes for safe medication storage at-home. The City also offers several resources for safe disposal of unused or expired medication, including year-round permanent medication drop boxes, free drug disposal kits, and tips about safe medication disposal at home.

Host Alcohol-Free Celebrations

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol isn't a necessity for a memorable party. Embracing alcohol-free celebrations can promote inclusivity and well-being. Offer a variety of creative non-alcoholic beverages, like mocktails or festive punches, that are both delicious and fun. Incorporate games, music, and storytelling to connect and create lasting memories without the need for alcohol.

Create a Welcoming and Safe Environment

As a host, your goal is to create a warm and inclusive environment. Be attentive to your guests' needs and ensure everyone feels comfortable and respected. Offer non-alcoholic drink options and have a plan in place for guests who may need assistance getting home safely.

The holiday season is a time for joy, not worry. Let's make this holiday season not just merry but also safe and inclusive for everyone.

Quick Links

Washington Wizards Winter Reading Challenge

The Washington Wizards challenge you to read, stay active, and be engaged this winter by completing the Winter Reading Challenge. Earn the reading badge and at least one other badge to complete the challenge and earn a completion prize and a chance to win tickets to a Washington Wizards game.

The challenge runs from December 16 - February 16. Learn more about the Winter Reading Challenge at alexlibraryva.org/winter-reading.

Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria 

4850 Mark Center Drive

Alexandria, VA 22311