FOCUS Monthly Newsletter

October 2024

The 2024 FOCUS Rally is ONLY two weeks away

and registration is almost full!

We are pleased to announce the addition of Ole Pete Key

as a presenter at the Rally. 

You don’t want to miss his message of HOPE! 

1 in 3 Youth Will Never Have A Mentor

FOCUS is excited to announce our partnership with Ibby Dickson, co-founder of the Alabama Mentoring Initiative and founder of "Mentoring Matters." Since 2017, "Mentoring Matters" has provided opportunities of mentorship to over 2,380 of Alabama's youth. Through "Mentoring Matters," Ibby empowers Alabama's youth by fostering quality mentoring relationships. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in News Media and Political Science from the University of Alabama. Ibby is available to work with your students and has been instrumental in implementing, developing, and advocating for mentoring programs across Alabama. Her schedule is filling up quickly, so contact Sue Jones, sjones@thefocusprogram.com, to schedule your time with Ibby.

Click here to visit "Mentoring Matters" and to learn more about this amazing movement!

Teens and Alcohol Prevention: Resetting Norms and Narratives

Monday, October 7, 10:00-11:30 a.m. CT

Teens and young adults are often influenced to consume alcohol before the legal age of consumption, which increases their risk for developing an alcohol use disorder and can negatively impact their health and development. Attendees will learn about the risk of alcohol consumption in teens and young adults, how to prevent underage alcohol use, and best practices for reducing the negative impacts of alcohol.

Jacksonville High School’s Peer Mentors kicked off the school year by participating in a fun and challenging twelve hour training retreat at the beautiful campus of Shocco Springs. The theme was Ohana, and the students arrived in festive Hawaiian attire, ready to learn and bond as a family.The morning began with two keynote speakers. FOCUS staff member, Kim Bailey, and the co-founder of the Alabama Mentoring Initiative, Ibby Dickson. Students learned about effective communication, meeting the needs of others, and expectations of being a mentor. 

During the afternoon hours, the group reached new heights on a challenging ropes course through the treetops. Mikaeala Watkins enthusiastically shared, “some people overcame fears that they have had their whole life. By all of us experiencing that together and helping each other through the challenges, a bond was definitely formed.” The evening ended with team planning, and the group left the retreat ready to serve others!

COMING SOON!

FOCUS On-Demand Training Videos!

"Quitting smoking isn’t easy. It takes time. And a plan. You don’t have to stop smoking in one day. Start with day one. Let the Great American Smokeout event on the third Thursday in November be your day to start your journey toward a smoke-free life. You’ll be joining thousands of people who smoke across the country in taking an important step toward a healthier life and reducing your cancer risk. Plus, the American Cancer Society can help you access the resources and support you need to quit."

The Great American Smokeout in 2024 will be on Thursday, November 21. This annual event is hosted by the American Cancer Society to encourage people to quit smoking and promote the benefits of a smoke-free life. 

Monthly Health Observances

We encourage all FOCUS schools to engage in at least one health observance activity each month. Each month has some excellent choices for students on your campuses to “Make a Difference” and to encourage their peers to participate.

October

• 1-31: Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• 1-31: National Bullying Prevention Month
• 6-12: Mental illness Awareness Week
• 9: Walk to School Day
• 11: National Depression Screening Day
• 23-31: Red Ribbon Week

November

• 1-30: American Diabetes Month
• 1-30: COPD Awareness Month
• 1-30: Lung Cancer Awareness Month
• 1-30: Healthy Skin Month
• 12-18: U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week
• 15: Great American Smokeout
• 23: International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

FOCUS values continued partnerships with the following state and community organizations.

Alabama Department of Public Health

Alabama Department of Education

Addiction Prevention Coalition

Children's Policy Council

Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS)

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama

Be Part of Making A Difference!