02/15/2026
🌟 Breakout Session Spotlight: Reducing or Delaying the Onset of Substance Use
As we continue highlighting insights from the Collective Response Initiative York (CRIY) Annual Meeting, our next focus is the breakout session dedicated to a crucial community priority: reducing or delaying the onset of substance use, with a strong emphasis on youth prevention.
This session brought together educators, community providers, youth-serving organizations, and individuals with lived experience to explore strategies that support young people in building resilience, connection, and healthy coping skills.
A sincere thank‑you to the Steering Committee members who facilitated the discussions and documented the ideas shared. Your leadership ensured this prevention-focused conversation was thoughtful, inclusive, and grounded in real community needs. 🙌
Together, participants identified:
✔️ Quick wins that can be implemented right away to strengthen youth prevention efforts
✔️ Opportunities to expand evidence‑based prevention programs in schools and youth spaces
✔️ Ways to support families and caregivers with practical tools and education
✔️ 2026 priorities that can reduce risk factors and promote protective factors across the community
We’re grateful to all who contributed their insights, passion, and dedication to youth well‑being. These collaborative efforts are shaping a more proactive, upstream approach—one that helps young people thrive and reduces the likelihood of substance use down the road.