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In this Issue:
- News
- Events & Webinars
- Community Resources
- Los Recursos Familial en Español
- Family Resources in English
- Job Opportunities
| | Spotlight On: Preventing Youth Access to Alcohol | | |
RISE Drug Free MKE truly believes that prevention works when it's consistent, community-wide, and taken seriously. A round of recent alcohol age compliance checks – when law enforcement sends an underage person into a retailer in attempt to purchase alcohol to verify if the retailer will check the individual’s ID – shows that we still have work to do.
Out of 174 compliance checks conducted by RISE Drug Free MKE and the Milwaukee Police Department in 2025, there were 56 illegal sales to individuals under 21, resulting in an overall failure rate of 32%. That means 1 in 3 retailers that were checked sold alcohol to someone who was underage.
These checks are a critical public health strategy designed to protect young people, support responsible businesses, and provide opportunities for educating retailers on the importance of checking IDs. Retailers are one of the most important prevention partners in our community. The simple action of checking IDs during every single sale can significantly prevent and reduce youth access to alcohol.
| | Share Your News in the Prevention Journal | | |
Calling all Community Partners: Do you have upcoming events, news to share, or job openings? Email the information to prevention@communityadvocates.net to be featured in upcoming Prevention Journals sent to over 1,000 friends, colleagues, and social service providers each month.
| | Light and Unite Red Week is March 16-22 | | |
Each year, partners across Milwaukee County join forces for Light and Unite Red Week to promote community-wide substance use prevention education and is in alignment with National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, from March 15-21.
This year's theme is MythBusters
Students are encouraged not to believe everything they hear at school or see online. Curiosity around substance use is normal, but it's important to seek information from reliable, credible sources. RISE Drug Free MKE will be sharing accurate information and resources on alcohol, marijuana, commercial tobacco, nicotine, prescription medication, and other drugs.
Throughout the week, RISE Drug Free MKE, community organizations, and other allies will also be debunking common myths about alcohol and other drug use through social media and in-person events.
| | Wisconsin Hemp ProductsTested for THC, Toxins | |
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has shared the results of their investigation into the makeup of Milwaukee's hemp-derived THC products.
The article highlights:
- Half of the edibles tested contained more delta-9 THC per serving than allowable in many states that have legalized cannabis.
- Much of the flower tested contained far more mold than the limits set by states with legalized cannabis.
- The lab results measuring THC potency raised questions about the accuracy of many products' Certificates of Analysis (CoA).
This research provides a new level of clarity for Milwaukee. The findings make a strong case for continued education and harm reduction practices, especially for young people who may be initiating their substance use with hemp-derived THC.
| | Quitting Smoking is Associated with Recovery from Other Addictions | |
People with addiction to alcohol or other substances have a higher likelihood of being addicted to nicotine as well. Findings from a National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) study show that quitting cigarette smoking is associated with improved recovery outcomes from other substance use disorders.
"We now have strong evidence from a national sample that quitting cigarette smoking predicts improved recovery from other substance use disorders," explained Nora Volkow, M.D., director of NIH's National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Scientists analyzed data from 2,652 people 18 and older who had a history of substance use disorder and who experienced a change in their recovery status over the next four years. In this analysis, a change in smoking status from "current" to "former" use of cigarettes was associated with 42% greater odds of the individual being in recovery from their non-tobacco substance use disorder.
Based on their analysis of data from a large U.S. study of smoking and health, researchers believe the results clearly show the benefit of pairing smoking cessation with addiction recovery efforts.
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QPR Question Persuade Refer Suicide Prevention Training
Friday, March 6
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We can all save lives.
The QPR mission is to reduce suicidal behaviors and save lives by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training. The signs of crisis are all around us. We believe that quality education empowers all people, regardless of their background, to make a positive difference in the life of someone they know.
This interactive introduction to suicide awareness and prevention is scheduled from 9 to 10:15 a.m. on Friday, March 6. The training is hosted by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute and is free and open to all.
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Black Balloon Day
Friday, March 6
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Black Balloon Day, established in 2016 by Diane and Lauren Hurley to honor the memory of Greg Tremblay—a Massachusettes resident who passed away from an overdose in 2015—has since become a nationally recognized event. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about addiction, advocate for improved treatment options, and combat the stigma surrounding substance use disorders.
Along with civic, community, and government leaders, Samad's House will host a Black Balloon Day event on March 6 to honor those who lost their lives to drug overdose. The event, now an annual tradition, will be held from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at No Studios, 1037 W. McKinley Ave., Milwaukee.
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Alverno College Mental Health Summit
Saturday, March 7
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Alverno College is presenting this year's Mental Health Summit, titled "Connected Care: Transforming Mental Health Through Technology."
In response to the multi-faceted needs of our community, the planning committee has chosen the theme to explore and advance innovative ways that technology can transform mental health care across schools, communities and healthcare systems, with a focus on improving access, equity and outcomes for diverse populations.
The Alverno College Mental Health Summit is an event that brings together mental health practioners, community leaders and students to explore a relevant topic in the field of mental health. The Summit will be offered in person at Alverno College, 3400 S. 43rd St., Milwaukee. A limited virtual track will also be offered.
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Landlord & Property Management: Rental Application Event
Wednesday, March 11
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Looking for housing? Join the Milwaukee Rental Housing Resource Center for the Landlord & Property Management: Rental Application Event!
Meet local landlords and property managers who will be hosting booths, explore available units, and get guided assistance completing rental applications. This event is designed to make the housing search easier and more accessible for Milwaukee community members.
Please bring the following:
- Current income documentation (Two full months of paystubs and/or updated Social Security award letter)
- Asset statement (Bank statements, Statements from investment accounts, Prepaid debit card statements, etc.)
- Driver's license
- Social Security cards
- Copy of your birth certificate
No registration required — feel free to walk in anytime during the event!
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Resilience and Thriving: The Secret Power of Stress
Friday, March 13
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How well do you cope with stress? And can stress ever be good for you? Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is offering Resilience and Thriving, a two-hour webinar in which participants will be able to identify early warning signs of stress, types of stress, and effects of stress. Participants will learn specific skills to cope well with and thrive from stress, and understand positive and negative coping styles, plus their personal coping style! This session is open to everyone and is offered free of charge.
This session is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m. on March 13.
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ECOM Workshop: Legal Services
Wednesday, March 18
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The Empowerment Coalition of Milwaukee (ECOM) is a monthly gathering that aims to bring social service professionals and advocates together. It is a networking, educational, and professional development opportunity, featuring multiple presentations from experts in the field.
This month’s topic is Legal Services. Learn about mediation, evictions, and accessing the support of free attorneys.
ECOM will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon on March 18 and will be held at Community Advocates, 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
Fee is $5 for light refreshments and materials and can be paid via credit card. Registration is not refundable. Kindly make sure to RSVP by Friday, March13.
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Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga
Wednesday, March 18
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Get your glow on! Ignite your inner light as the City of Franklin Health Department, Volition Franklin, and YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee celebrate holistic wellness and positive energy during Light and Unite Red Week.
Feel uplifted as you connect with a supportive community of people who are improving their lives by remaining free of alcohol and other drugs. After the fun and invigorating yoga class, participants are welcome to socialize, enjoy refreshments, and enter to win raffle prizes provided by Volition Franklin.
Please bring your own yoga mat. Everyone is encouraged to wear white or neon clothing for a more vibrant experience. Glow sticks will be provided.
Glow-in-the-Dark Yoga is scheduled from 6-7:30 p.m. on March 18 at the Briscoe Family YMCA Wellness Center, 7095 S. Ballpark Dr., Suite 120 in Franklin.
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Youth Mental Health First Aid
Thursday, March 19
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Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who might be experiencing a mental health challenge or is in crisis.
Youth Mental Health First Aid is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a 5-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including AD/HD), and eating disorders.
This Light and Unite Red Week training hosted by Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 19 and will be held at Community Advocates, 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee.
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Verbal De-Escalation Techniques
Thursday, March 19
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During this virtual workshop, you will learn how to increase safety by utilizing verbal de-escalation techniques. Participants will explore foundational information on how to reduce the level of conflict through self-knowledge, understand how past experiences influence current behavior, and practice de-escalation.
Community Advocates Public Policy Institute is hosting this webinar on Thursday, March 19 from 10 a.m. - 12 noon.
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Letting Go of What Doesn't Work: Moving Communities Toward Effective Prevention
Tuesday, March 24
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Substance misuse prevention works best when it's grounded in evidence. Yet many well-known and widely supported prevention strategies have been shown to be ineffective—or even harmful. Despite the data, these approaches often persist because they're familiar, popular, or deeply valued by communities.
This 2-hour virtual training, provided by the Prevention Technology Transfer Center Network, equips prevention practitioners with practical tools to identify ineffective strategies and guide partners toward more effective, evidence-based alternatives. Participants will learn a clear 5-step process to assess current efforts, select stronger replacements, understand why ineffective strategies endure, and confidently communicate the value of change. The focus is on real-world application—helping you move conversations (and communities) toward prevention strategies that truly make an impact.
This webinar is scheduled from 1-3 p.m. on March 24.
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Family Wellness Event
Tuesday, March 24
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Community Alliance and Greendale Schools present the 7th Annual Family Wellness Event! Join them for an interactive evening focused on youth wellness! Hear from local health experts, explore community resources, and support 8th graders as they showcase their Health Advocacy projects. Bring the whole family and be part of the conversation!
Speaker Panel Topics:
- Youth mental health and coping strategies
- Nutrition for growing minds and bodies
- Vaping dangers and cessation strategies
- School Safety: Speak up, Speak out
- Youth Athletics: Proper training and injury prevention
The event is scheduled from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on March 24 at Greendale Middle School, 6800 Schoolway, Greendale.
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2026 Strength Over Addiction Recovery (SOAR) Workshop
Saturday, March 28
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Addiction can be a challenging topic to discuss with children, but it doesn't have to be! When a child attends a SOAR workshop hosted by Rogers Behavioral Health, they gain more than just understanding. They also get to:
- Explore their feelings in a safe space while participating in activities with peers.
- Build a self-care kit as they learn about mindfulness, coping, and resiliency.
- Create and take home educational arts and craft projects.
The workshop is available to children ages 6 through 15. Please note that children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 28 at Rogers Behavioral Health's Brown Deer Behavioral Health Treatment Center, 4600 W. Schroeder Dr., Brown Deer.
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Trauma and the Brain: An Introduction
Tuesday, March 31
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As a result of this workshop, participants will gain a better understanding of how trauma affects the brain, discuss risk factors for substance use disorders, and develop their strategy for intervention methods for a particular population.
What will be discussed:
• Trauma definition
• How trauma affects the brain
• Statistics on substance use and ACEs
• Risk factors
• Strategies for care
• Stress reducers
• Prioritizing risk factors
• Beginning a call to action
This training from Community Advocates Public Policy Institute will be held via Zoom from 9 to 10 a.m. on March 31.
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Hey, there,
-- do you have:
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Job openings?
- Upcoming events?
- News to share?
- Suggestions?
Forward the information to Prevention@CommunityAdvocates.net.
Thank you for your service to Milwaukee!
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Technology and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship
Mental Health America's Technology and Mental Health: A Complex Relationship report offers a look at how technology shares our emotional well-being beyond the usual "screen time" conversations. The report highlights the nuanced ways technology intersects with mental health across age groups and abilities. Click here to learn more.
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Autism Resource Directory by Autism United of Wisconsin
Autism United of Wisconsin Autism Resource Directory was developed to assist and empower parents in their journey of researching optimal services for their children with autism spectrum disorder by providing information on local resources. Click here to view the Resource Directory.
| | Los Recursos Familial en Español | | |
Piénselo antes de beber
Piénselo antes de beber: El alcohol y su salud del NIAAA es un folleto gratuito basado en evidencia, diseñado para ayudar a los adultos a comprender cómo su consumo de alcohol puede afectar su salud y bienestar. Desglosa información clave, incluyendo qué se considera una bebida estándar y las directrices de consumo de EE. UU., hasta los signos de consumo riesgoso, y ofrece herramientas prácticas, estrategias y recursos para quienes estén considerando reducir el consumo o dejarlo por completo. Haga clic aquí para obtener más información.
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Para los padres y los jóvenes
La página "Para los padres y los jóvenes" de Mental Health America es un centro de recursos en español que ofrece herramientas prácticas y orientación para familias que enfrentan la salud mental de sus hijos. Reúne artículos y consejos dirigidos tanto a padres como a jóvenes, que abarcan temas como construir relaciones saludables, comprender el comportamiento en línea, afrontar entornos domésticos difíciles y apoyar el bienestar emocional. Haga clic aquí para explorar los recursos.
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Empowering Families of Milwaukee
Empowering Families of Milwaukee (EFM) uses evidence-based models to provide long-term home visitation to families. The focus of EFM is pregnant people and their children. The City of Milwaukee Health Department’s program facilitates access to health, social, and child development support for families through Public Health Nurses and Social Workers. Click here to learn more and fill out a referral form.
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Maintaining a Healthy Relationship
Relating to someone you love who has a mental illness can be difficult and frustrating, but there are strategies you can use to improve your communication with them. The National Alliance on Mental illness (NAMI) offers tips to help you build a stronger foundation for your relationship. Click here to learn more.
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Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery
Are you worried about your drinking or other drug use? You aren’t alone. The Positive Options for Women Entering Recovery (POWER) is here to help. The Milwaukee Women’s Center’s POWER provides day treatment for women struggling with alcohol and other drug issues. Click here to learn more or call 414-270-4600 to get help.
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