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Happy November Prevention Champions!
Welcome to the Henrico Area Prevention Services Monthly Newsletter!
Let us Embrace Gratitude as a Source of Strength for Mental Health & Wellness.
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This month, we recognize the urgent need to prevent and address homelessness, especially among youth impacted by mental health or substance use disorders. Young people experiencing homelessness often face unique challenges, with mental health and substance use disorders creating additional barriers to stability and well-being. National efforts, including programs from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), work to support those affected, helping provide essential resources and pathways toward safe, healthy futures.
To learn more about SAMHSA’s work and find resources that help prevent and end homelessness for young people and families, visit samhsa.gov/homelessness-programs-resources
Visit Homeward for Richmond Regional Resources
Housing Resource Line (Richmond area) 804-422-5061
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As we observe Veterans Day this November, we honor the brave men and women who have served our nation. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our freedoms, and it's our duty to support them in return.
The Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) offers comprehensive resources, including health benefits, education, and employment assistance, to enhance veterans' quality of life. The Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program collaborates with employers to promote the hiring and retention of veterans, facilitating their transition to civilian careers. Additionally, the Virginia Veterans Services Foundation provides financial support for programs addressing veterans' needs, ensuring they receive the assistance they deserve.
For veterans facing mental health challenges, the Veterans Crisis Line offers confidential support 24/7. By dialing 988 and pressing 1, veterans can connect with trained responders ready to assist. This Veterans Day, let's express our gratitude by utilizing these resources to support the veterans in our lives and in our community.
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November 21st is the Great American Smokeout
Spearheaded by the American Cancer Society, the Great American Smokeout serves as a reminder that quitting smoking is one of the best ways to reduce cancer risk and improve health. Through supportive events and resources, the Great American Smokeout encourages individuals to take the first step toward a smoke-free life, emphasizing the power of prevention.
Reducing tobacco use among young people remains a priority, helping to lower the rates of tobacco-related diseases and strengthen community health. For more information and support, visit cancer.org.
Register here for the next Tobacco Free Tuesday. All of the previous Tobacco Free Tuesdays are on the
Tobacco Free Alliance VA YouTube page.
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Parents and guardians do you know about an emerging vape device that is marketed in a way that may appeal to youth but poses serious health risks?
Wefume, available for as little as $21, offers up to 30,000 puffs and features technology commonly associated with a smartphone—Bluetooth, a touch screen, music streaming capabilities, call functionality, and the ability to load apps. Additionally, this device is available in 20 different flavors, further attracting younger audiences through enticing, candy-like options.
Products like this underscore the need for vigilance and open conversations with young people about the risks associated with flavored and “tech-enhanced” vapes. These devices are designed to appear harmless or even “cool,” but their nicotine content and ease of use increase the risk of addiction and other health issues. For parents and caregivers, it’s critical to stay informed about these trends and to communicate openly with youth to deter them from using these risky products. For more details on the product, visit Fume Vapors.
Rethink Vape
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Here's what we've been up to...
10/12: Bernard Greene Drug Court Memorial 5K
10/17: 50+ Health and Fitness Expo Eastern Henrico Rec Center
10/19: Richmond Out of Darkness Walk, Byrd Park
10/21-22: Community Coalitions of Virginia (CCoVA) Summit, Roanoke, VA
10/23-31: Red Ribbon Week
10/23: Talk Saves Lives Virtual
10/26: Community Health & Wellness Fall Festival, Varina Elementary
10/26: Drug Take Back. Fairfield Library and Henrico Police Headquarters
10/26: NAMI Walk, Deep Run Park
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Here's what we have planned...
11/1: VCU CONNECT 2024 Conference
11/12: Prevention Staff Training
11/19: DBHDS Site Visit
11/22: Crysto Rey HS Mental Health & Wellness Fair
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Wise Guyz 2.0
We invited our friends, the Upsilon Nu Omegas, to continue their mentorship through our new Wise Guyz 2.0 program. This program will meet monthly, bringing young men together from all of our Connect Programs.
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Our Youth Ambassadors recently took on the Chesterfield County Challenge Course, facing physical and mental challenges that some never thought were possible. With the "Challenge by Choice" approach, participants were empowered to step beyond their comfort zones and discover new strengths at their own pace. The course met its goal of boosting confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills as every youth took on at least one challenge. The experience fostered trust, resilience, and lasting bonds among our youth! | |
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Red Ribbon Week at Highland Spring H.S. ACE Center.
Over 100 students participated in presentations to learn the work of the coalition and hands-on activities, including a demonstration of the Fatal Vison Goggles that simulate impaired driving, to help them learn about the risks and dangers of alcohol and other drug use. They also had an opportunity to pledge to “Celebrate Life” and “Be Drug-Free.”
2024 CCOVA State Summit
Congrats to our board member and adjunct professor at VCU, Dr. Caroline Cobb, for a stellar presentation that provided updated research from VCU’s Center for the Study of Tobacco Products and current trends in tobacco and vaping prevention.
Hidden in Plain Sight at Deep Run High School
The special guest speaker for the event was Karleen Wolanin, founder of the Virginia Fentanyl and Substance Awareness-VFSA. For education for prevention, support, and recovery visit https://virginiafentanylandsubstanceawareness.org/
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News the Henrico Community Can Use! | |
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*Please note* all communications coming from Henrico County general government employees will be from an @henrico.gov domain. Additionally our new website URL is https://prevention.henrico.gov/.
Please be sure to update your contact information.
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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
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Practicing gratitude enhances wellness by fostering positive emotions, improving mood, and strengthening relationships. | |
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Action for Happiness
Join the New Ways November challenge. Trying something new boosts wellness by challenging the mind, reducing stress, and increasing confidence, all of which support mental and emotional health.
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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.
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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!
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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. | | |
Henrico Area Mental Health & Developmental Services, Prevention Services | 3908 Nine Mile Rd. Richmond, VA 23223| 804-727-8097 | henricoprevention@henrico.us |
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