North Iowa Addiction Prevention Alliance

06/24/2026

Happy Summer!

To best enjoy summer, include taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health. That means making choices that support your well-being. Staying sober can be challenging, especially while navigating social pressure and environments where substance use is normalized. But you are not alone, and there are ways to thrive. Substance-free living allows you to fully embrace who you are, your creativity, your voice, your life.

Strategies for long-term success:
- Build a routine that supports your stability and growth
- Learn to recognize triggers and plan ahead for tough situations
- Practice self-compassion, your journey is valid and worth it
- Find a community that uplifts you and celebrates sober living

Our best memories are best made sober!

NIAPA will be sponsoring several family-friendly, substance-free events this summer, so be sure to Follow our page so you don't miss out!

06/23/2026

Substance free living is one of the best ways to fully embrace; life, creativity, and self-expression! In many summer settings, substance use can be a common part of social gatherings. That can make it tough to stay sober when you're surrounded by others who are using. But choosing a healthier path is a powerful way to honor yourself and your well-being.

Here are a few ways to support your journey:
- Surround yourself with allies and friends who encourage your sobriety
- Explore alternative outings like coffee shops, book clubs, sober restaurants, and other substance-free spaces
- Remember: you deserve joy, connection, and celebration without substances

Choosing good health is choosing YOU. Celebrate love, community, and a life lived fully and authentically, substance-free.

For more information on local resources, especially for youth and parents, please visit: https://cghealth.com/services/positive-youth-development/

06/15/2026

One of our youth educators, Thomas Heiar, recently discussed substance use dangers our teens face and where they can go locally for resources when they have questions or need support.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

06/04/2026

The Best Memories are made sober!

Do you have an upcoming graduation, celebration or family reunion? NIAPA rents out FREE signage for community and family events as they celebrate and gather without the influence of substances. Click here to reserve signs for your next event! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSep31-k3y2-8MDqGLIrHAhjHag6hdkKUySmmh7FfCMrOwWQOA/viewform

06/02/2026

Looking for an impactful way to volunteer in your community?

The Cerro Gordo Family Treatment Court is looking to fill positions on their FTC Steering Committee. Volunteers serve as the advisory board to the program, helping to guide the development and success of the Family Treatment Court in supporting families, protecting children and promoting recovery through innovation and teamwork.
Learn more about Cerro Gordo’s Family Treatment Court and Steering Committee at tomorrow's Lunch & Learn (June 3rd) at 12:00 PM
https://iowacourts.zoomgov.com/j/1652277747?pwd-wag23QfnNO7Q8BXlldNdalk6lt

05/13/2026

A local coalition partner, North Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition, is seeking volunteers to serve in their new Peer Support Recovery Program.

05/12/2026

Mason City's Make It OK Walk & Resource Fair is this Thursday; mark your calendars and come out and join us!
There's great giveaways from Wayne's Ski & Cycle, Three Bells Books, Blanchard's Blossoms, Mason City Family YMCA, and CG Public Health.

04/28/2026

A reminder from our local law enforcement teams:
When disposing of your unwanted and expired medications at Drug Take Back box sites, kindly consider consolidating pills into minimal number of bottles or combine them into a sealable bag to help save space in the drop box. Thank you!

04/27/2026

Help keep your community safe by cleaning out your medicine cabinet and taking back unneeded meds for safe disposal. We have several locations in Cerro Gordo County:
-Mason City Police Department
-Clear Lake Police Department
-Cerro Gordo County Sheriff
-Also check with your local pharmacy