P4P to Hold Community Events

The Partners for Prevention (P4P) Coalition of Richland County will be holding several upcoming community events focused on strengthening families, supporting youth, and addressing key challenges such as screen time and tobacco use. The events include a screening of Screenagers: Elementary School Edition, the Strengthening Families Program, Focus Groups, and the Youth Voice Project, taking place throughout March and April. There is no charge for any of the events.

Community Focus Groups will be held at the Pratt Community Hall on Monday nights, March 3, 10, and 17, from 6:30 to 7:30. These discussions will allow community members to share insights about youth substance use, community concerns, and potential solutions. The feedback gathered will help shape future initiatives and programming. Participants will receive a $50 gas card. Registration is required by calling 608-647-6131 ext. 1516 by Friday, February 28.

The Strengthening Families Program is a free seven-week series designed for parents and caregivers with youth ages 10 to 14. Participants will learn strategies to improve family communication, manage emotions, set goals, and foster stronger relationships. Sessions take place on Wednesdays from March 12 through April 30 at the Richland Center Intermediate Sschool, with a free meal provided and served from 5:30 to 6:00 by local civic organizations . The program runs from 5:45 pm to 8:00 each evening. Registration is required by calling Lisa Goff, Richland School District School Psychologist at 608-649-HIVE.

On Monday, March 25, the STING after school program in partnership with P4P will present Screenagers: Elementary School Edition at the Richland Center Intermediate School. This film explores the effects of screen time on young people and provides families with strategies to manage technological use in a healthy way. The screening will be preceded by a free dinner at 5:30, with the film beginning at 5:45. Families are highly encouraged to attend. To register contact Sue Sharp, STING Program Director at 608-604-8738.

As part of its youth engagement efforts, P4P and Richland Center High School’s Youth4Change is launching the Youth Voice Project, a statewide initiative that gives young people grades fifth on up a platform to share their experiences with tobacco use. Through guided discussions and impact cards, students are encouraged to reflect on how vaping and nicotine use have affected their lives. These anonymous stories will be shared with local and state leaders to raise awareness and support prevention efforts. The project also includes an educational video on how the tobacco industry targets youth.

While substance use can be a challenge for some, it’s important to recognize that most youth in Richland County are making healthy choices and choosing not to use tobacco, vaping products, or other substances. For those who struggle, support is available. No one is alone in this, and there are people and resources ready to help. If a young person, or anyone in the community, is looking for support for mental health or substance use concerns, local resources can be found through SWCAP’s Network of Care website, which connects individuals with guidance, treatment options, and community support.

By amplifying youth voices and focusing on the realities of substance use, the project aims to empower students, encourage positive choices, and foster a community where every young person feels supported.

The Partners for Prevention Coalition invites all families and community members to attend these events. Whether it’s learning strategies for stronger families, joining community conversations, or supporting youth voices in tobacco prevention, there are many ways to get involved. For more information or to register for any of these opportunities or join the coalition, call 608-647-6131 ext. 1516.