Our Programs
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Winter 2025 Newsletter

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A message from the Executive Director


Welcome to the 2025 Winter edition of Prevention in Putnam, our quarterly newsletter. We're excited to share valuable information and resources with our community to address substance use and promote overall well-being.

 

Thank you for being a part of the effort to create a safer, more informed community. We look forward to your continued engagement and feedback.



Be well.


Yours in Prevention,

Kristin McConnell


About 
Resources

Surgeon General Calls for Updating Alcohol Labels

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy is calling for alcoholic beverages to include a warning about an increased risk of cancer

Surgeon General Update
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Please join NACoA in an annual tradition to raise awareness and educate communities around the world about the impact of the disease of addiction on children, the hidden hurts that result for countless kids and teens, and the hope and healing possible.


The most effective way to do this is through social media, emails, and other opportunities to engage in our communities. By sharing images and message on the social media channels you use regularly, sending emails during the week, and posting information and educational resources on your website, your organization can help people in your community with information and support. With information and support, families can understand that substance use disorders are not their fault, that they have been affected by a loved one with this disease, and that they can do things to help improve their lives. Click here for more information


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Why your child might start drinking Alcohol or using other drugs


As kids approach their teen years, they begin to experience many developmental, emotional, and physical changes that aren’t always easy. During this challenging time, some of them may choose to experiment with alcohol or other drugs.

For most kids, it’s not just one thing that influences their decision whether or not to drink alcohol or use other drugs, but a combination of factors.

Why Your Child Might Start
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Satellite Mental Health Clinic

Satellite Mental Health Clinic at Carmel High School is fully operational!


The Prevention Council of Putnam, Carmel Central School District and Student Assistance Services Counseling Center are partnering on a new initiative to provide on-site mental health services at Carmel High School (CHS). A new full time therapist, Alexandra (Allie) Vroman, was recently hired. Currently Allie is full time at CHS, and we are working with the school district to eventually expand services to George Fischer Middle School. Read more

Satellight Mental Health Clinic
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Sticker Shock Campaign: Addressing Underage Drinking in Our Community 


Underage drinking remains a serious concern in our community, and it takes all of us to make a difference. That’s why we’re excited to launch our Sticker Shock Campaign, an impactful initiative aimed at raising awareness and preventing youth access to alcohol.


What is the Sticker Shock Campaign?

This campaign is a community-driven effort to remind adults about the consequences of providing alcohol to minors. Bright, attention-grabbing stickers with powerful messages will be placed on pizza boxes in participating stores. These stickers highlight the legal and social consequences of underage drinking and emphasize the importance of keeping alcohol out of the hands of youth.


Why It Matters

Every year, underage drinking leads to tragic consequences, including car crashes, health issues, and even fatalities. By reducing youth access to alcohol, we can:

  • Protect young lives and reduce risky behaviors.
  • Strengthen community awareness of the law and the dangers of underage drinking.
  • Foster a culture of accountability and prevention.


How You Can Help

  • Retailers: Join us by allowing stickers to be placed on pizza boxes in your establishment.
  • Volunteers: Participate in the campaign by helping distribute stickers and engaging with the community.
  • Parents and Adults: Talk openly with your kids about the risks of underage drinking, and commit to not providing alcohol to teens.



Join Us in Making a Difference

Our Sticker Shock Campaign will kick off very soon. Together, we can create a safer and healthier community by taking a stand against underage drinking.

For more information or to get involved, contact Sheila Hanley at shanley@preventioncouncilputnam.org..


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The Superbowl and underage drinking 


Tips for preventing underage drinking

  • Don't provide alcohol to minors: Parents should not purchase alcohol for minors or leave it within reach. 
  • Monitor alcohol: If hosting a party, keep alcohol in one place that can be monitored. 
  • Choose a designated parent: Select a parent who doesn't drink to supervise the children. 
  • Plan activities: Plan alternative activities to keep children engaged, such as a playdate or watching a child-friendly movie. 


https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/underage-drinking/index.html

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Community Based - Advocacy Focused - Data Driven -Coalition Building - Association

We're Going to CADCA!

Representatives from the Carmel CTC Coalition will attend the 35th CADCA Annual National Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C., from February 3–6, 2025. This premier training event brings together over 4,000 community leaders, coalition members, and advocates dedicated to prevention efforts. Our team looks forward to sharing insights, learning best practices, and networking with like-minded professionals to gain the resources needed to drive positive change.

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How to Talk to Kids About Mental Health


Here are some ideas on how to talk with your kids about mental health and substance use and provide them information, support and guidance. 











How to Talk to Kids About...
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Milton Carpenter Scholarship


The Milton Carpenter Scholarship is now available for graduating seniors who have been impacted by substance use disorder. This scholarship aims to support students as they pursue their educational goals and overcome challenges. For more information or to download the application, please visit our website or contact us directly. Don't miss this opportunity to take the next step toward a brighter future!

Milton Carpenter Scholarship
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Victim Impact Panel


The Putnam County Victim Impact Panel (VIP) Program is a collaboration between The Prevention Council of Putnam, Putnam County Probation Department and Putnam County STOP DWI. The program provides bi-monthly forums on the consequences of drunk driving from people whose lives have been impacted by a drunk driver. Other panel members include people in 


The VIP is still being held virtually. To register please click link below

Victim Impact Panel 
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Naloxone Training 


Naloxone, also known by its brand name Narcan, is a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. The New York State Department of Health has designated sites as Opioid Overdose Prevention Providers (OOPPs) which allows these sites to provide naloxone trainings and kits at no cost to recipients. The Prevention Council of Putnam (PCP) is a designated OOPPs provider and has been providing naloxone trainings to Putnam residents, organizations, schools, police departments, etc.

If you are interested in receiving a free naloxone training and kit, please visit our website to submit a request. 

 

Naloxone Training
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Contact Us
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The Prevention Council of Putnam


67 Gleneida Avenue

Carmel, New York 10512


Phone: 845-225-4646

Email - info@preventioncouncilputnam.org