It Only Takes One

The First Lady of Virginia Suzanne S. Youngkin’s

Fentanyl Awareness Initiative

July 2025 Newsletter

August Save the Dates

It Only Takes One Journey: The Video

From Roanoke to Richmond, from pain to purpose—our new short film captures the heart of It Only Takes One. You’ll hear from students, parents, pastors, and law enforcement about how this movement has made a difference in their communities. With 69% of Virginia teens encountering pills or powders in social settings, one honest conversation could save a life.

🔗 Watch and share

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Webinar: Faith in Action

In June, First Lady Youngkin participated with the U.S. Department of HHS for their Become a LifeSaver webinar, highlighting how faith communities are key partners in ending the fentanyl crisis.

With over 240 attendees—including clergy, nonprofit leaders, and advocates—the discussion explored how It Only Takes One inspires life-saving conversations in every faith tradition.

🔗 Watch the webinar

A Beacon of Hope in Buena Vista:

The First Lady Visits HOPE House

In the heart of Buena Vista, First Lady Youngkin recently visited HOPE House—a peer-led recovery residence that offers 24/7 support to men rebuilding their lives after substance use disorders. Her visit underscored the Administration’s ongoing commitment to transforming Virginia’s crisis care system and uplifting stories of resilience, healing, and second chances.

HOPE House isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a lifeline run by those who have walked the same path. The residence offers more than just shelter, it provides purpose, structure, and connection. With the support of peers who understand the journey to recovery, residents are empowered to reclaim their lives and futures.

The First Lady’s visit shined a spotlight on the incredible impact of community-based recovery. HOPE House stands as a powerful reminder that recovery is possible—and that hope can be restored when we meet people where they are, with compassion and care.

If you or someone you love is struggling, call 2-1-1 to find support services near you.

🔗 Support their work

Nonprofit Spotlight: Mary's Choice RVA

First Lady Youngkin visited Mary’s Choice RVA, a faith-based residential program for women facing crisis pregnancies. She witnessed firsthand how love, structure, and support can transform lives—empowering women to choose life and build a future.

Mary’s Choice RVA offers:

• Up to four years of no-cost housing
• Parenting and life-skills classes
• Mentorship and compassionate case management
• A structured, Christ-centered environment that fosters independence and self-worth

Each resident receives individualized guidance to pursue education or employment, develop healthy routines, and prepare for motherhood. In partnership with community organizations like Commonwealth Catholic Charities, Mary’s Choice RVA helps connect women to a full spectrum of health and social services.

Their mission beautifully reflects the spirit of It Only Takes One—reminding us that one safe place, one act of love, and one brave decision can shape the future for generations to come.

🔗 Support their work

Standing United Against Fentanyl

This month, Governor Glenn Youngkin joined President Donald Trump at the White House for the signing of the HALT Fentanyl Act, introduced by Virginia’s own Congressman Morgan Griffith. This legislation marks another critical step in our national fight against the fentanyl crisis.

Virginia has led the way in combatting this deadly poison by interrupting the drug trade, educating families that It Only Takes One pill to kill, expanding enforcement tools, and equipping communities with the resources needed to save lives. We are proud to have strong federal partners who are just as committed to eradicating fentanyl and protecting our families.

Together, we will continue to fight for prevention, awareness, and hope.

🔗 Learn more

Become a Fentanyl Family Ambassador

If you’ve lost a loved one to fentanyl, your story can help save lives. The Fentanyl Families Ambassador Program equips participants with tools to raise awareness and advocate for change through storytelling, monthly awareness events, and ready-to-use materials.

🔗 Sign up

Add a Loved One to the Memorial Wall

The Memorial Wall is a sacred space to honor lives lost to fentanyl poisoning. If you would like to add a name to the wall, we invite you to share your loved one’s information with us.

🔗 Submit a name to the Memorial Wall

Share the Message

The fight against fentanyl starts with awareness and action. Join the movement by taking the pledge to talk with the young people in your life about the dangers of fentanyl. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or caregiver, your voice can make a difference. By having open, honest conversations, we can protect our youth and prevent unnecessary tragedies.

Help us spread the word—encourage your friends, family, and community to take the pledge and explore resources available on the It Only Takes One website. Learn how to start the conversation, find support, and access life-saving training. Together, we can create a safer future for Virginia’s youth. Take the pledge today!

🔗 Find resources and sign the pledge

Keep Up with the First Lady and Virginia’s Behavioral Health Transformation, Right Help, Right Now