At San Juan County Prevention Action Collaboration (SJCPAC), we are committed to protecting the health and well-being of our youth by promoting education, awareness, and prevention of substance use, including marijuana. While marijuana use may be legal for adults in some places, its impact on young people—especially their developing brains—can be detrimental. Our coalition works to provide the community with accurate information, promote healthy decision-making, and reduce marijuana use among youth.
Our Approach to Marijuana Prevention:
- Education and Awareness: We provide evidence-based education on the risks of marijuana use, particularly for young people. We focus on how marijuana affects brain development, academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. Through school programs and community events, we aim to raise awareness about the potential long-term effects of marijuana use during adolescence.
- Prevention Programs: SJCPAC offers youth-focused prevention programs that focus on building resilience, decision-making skills, and healthy coping mechanisms. By empowering youth to make informed choices, we help reduce the likelihood of substance use, including marijuana.
- Parent and Community Engagement: We believe that prevention starts with a strong support system. SJCPAC works with parents, schools, and community organizations to strengthen protective factors and create a unified front in addressing marijuana use. We provide resources to parents to help them navigate conversations about substance use and guide their children toward healthier choices.
- Promoting Healthy Alternatives: We support activities and initiatives that encourage healthy lifestyles and positive engagement, such as sports, arts, and other extracurricular opportunities. These alternatives help youth build strong social connections and find fulfillment without turning to substances.
- Reducing Stigma and Encouraging Open Dialogue: Through outreach efforts, we work to reduce the stigma around substance use and create a safe environment for open conversations. By encouraging dialogue, we ensure that youth and families feel comfortable seeking help or discussing concerns related to marijuana use.
SJCPAC is dedicated to ensuring that youth in San Juan County have the knowledge, skills, and support to make healthy, informed decisions. Together, we can prevent marijuana use, protect youth well-being, and foster a thriving, substance-free community.