SAFE Coalition shares series of teen Questions & Answers for Mental Health Awareness Month

"In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, every day we will post a question from a local teen that was submitted to us over the last month. We can answer questions without shame; the world of recovery and support is endless! 

Check back in daily for questions and answers!

#yougotallourlove

“How do I help someone who is struggling when I am struggling too?”

You can be supportive without trying to fix their problems. Empathy goes a long way. Supporting each other can also be really positive and give us a sense of purpose, as long as we set healthy boundaries & expectations about how much we can help others when we need to help ourselves. To help each other, you can engage in healthy activities such as exercise, mindfulness, and volunteering."

Shared from ->

https://www.facebook.com/safecoalitionma/posts/pfbid0fA9GfzekBrWSrZNsfUmy8Hx2cvKzLTPvJ1iFN9DHEVtoep3k3KhCxpugMDSLDWqzl

teen Question

teen answer

Have you read the SAFE Coalition Annual Report for 2023 ??

Via Jennifer Levine:

We’re so excited to share our annual report, a recap of everything we did in 2023! View the full report here: safecoalitionma.org/annual-report

Did you know, the majority of our free community programming is funded by grants and donations? 

Donate today to help us expand our reach! safecoalitionma.org/donate Interested in becoming a corporate sponsor? Email us at info@safecoalitionma.org

SAFE Coalition Annual Report for 2023

At a glance:

• 8,440 Diapers distributed 

• 4,500 Fentanyl test strips distributed 

• 78 Teen substance diversion program graduates 

• 60 Infant and child car seats distributed 

• 1,144 Weekly support group attendees

Narcan training

• 3,100 Narcan doses distributed 

• 600 Community members trained to administer Narcan 

• 20 Towns supported with Narcan training and distribution 

• 57 Narcan training hours conducted in local communities

Interested in Narcan training for yourself or your organization? Email us at info@safecoalitionma.org to schedule a session.

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/xYuLoKErUerbTDXD/

SAFE After Dark includes an Open Mic & performance by Elastic 5 - CANCELED

Sorry, later the day this was shared, the info came back that this event was canceled.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS!!! 

Sign up for open mic at SAFE After Dark! We're looking for performers for our Sept. 21 show: musicians, poets, comedians, spoken word—all are welcome.

SAFE After Dark -Sep 21

Anyone interested in performing can reserve their spot by sending an email to Jim Derick at jderick@safecoalitionma.org  

SAFE After Dark is a safe and sober place to enjoy the arts and connect with friends. Free of charge, open to all!

The evening will begin with Open Mic from 6:30 PM to 8 PM followed by Elastic 5’s performance from 8:15 PM to 9:30 PM

Based out of Boston, the Elastic 5 plays tributes to 20th century music, from the British Invasion to 80s/90s alternative, Rock & Roll to Power Pop.

We look forward to rocking out with you!

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/p/f17AZskL4QdUV223/

SAFE to Host Free Narcan Trainings, Yoga, and Concert in September

SAFE Coalition, based out of Franklin, will offer free Narcan training, trauma-informed yoga classes, and a concert with local band The Elastic 5 this September.

SAFE Coalition

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, SAFE will host free Narcan training at the public libraries in Norfolk (9 a.m. to 10 a.m.), Medway (10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.), and Wrentham (11:30 a.m. to noon). Attendees will learn how to recognize overdose, practice administering Narcan, and develop confidence in responding to an overdose. 

“Hosting community Narcan trainings increases access to Narcan and decreases stigma related to the disease of addiction,” says  Jennifer Levine, CEO and co-founder of SAFE. “Here in Norfolk County, we still see the impact of opioids within our communities and to know we have over 5000 doses of Narcan in the hands of our citizens is incredibly powerful.”

Trainings are supported by Norfolk, Medway, and Wrentham Opioid Abatement Funds. People can also contact SAFE to request one-on-one or group Narcan training.

Starting Sept. 7, SAFE will offer trauma-informed yoga sessions led by Michelle Palladini. Palladini, Norfolk deputy chief of police and founder of the L.E.A.P. program, is active in providing knowledge and training to the community, focusing especially on trauma, empowerment, and wellness. 

trauma-informed yoga sessions

“Physical and emotional wellness is the cornerstone of healing,” says Palladini. “I’ve found mindfulness to be incredibly helpful and enjoy sharing the practice with others. We all have something to heal from, and this is one path along the journey.”

Trauma-informed yoga focuses on mindfulness and body awareness. This practice is more sensitive to trauma triggers and teaches participants how to recognize trauma-associated spikes in one’s nervous system. 

These free sessions will be available from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturdays through November and take place at the SAFE office. Registration is required: tinyurl.com/safeyogareg 

On Sept. 21, local band The Elastic 5 will perform at the SAFE office as part of the SAFE After Dark series. Based out of Boston, the Elastic 5 plays tributes to 20th century music, from the British Invasion to 80s/90s alternative, Rock & Roll to Power Pop.  The evening will begin with Open Mic from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. followed by The Elastic 5’s performance from 8:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

SAFE After Dark is a "Sober Coffeehouse" where artists, comedians, and musicians of all levels of age and experience are welcome to share the open mic 

“There are very few places that artists in recovery can perform that offer a safe, sober, and supportive environment,” says James Derick, director of Family Recovery and co-founder of SAFE. “We recognized this and wanted to provide an alternative.”

“Anyone is encouraged to perform,” says Derick. “Musicians, poets, comedians, spoken word—all are welcome.”

Anyone interested in performing can reserve their spot by sending an email to Derick at jderick@safecoalitionma.org

SAFE is in the Moseley Mill building at 31 Hayward Street, Suite 2C, in Franklin. Contact SAFE at info@safecoalitionma.org or 508-488-8105 for more information on these events or to request Narcan training at a different date.  

With support groups, educational courses, events, training, support services and more, SAFE provides a whole-person, whole-family, whole-community approach to addiction, prevention, and recovery. To learn more about SAFE’s offerings or volunteer, visit the SAFE website -> https://www.safecoalitionma.org/

4th Annual vigil for International Overdose Awareness Day held on Town Common (audio)

FM #1267 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1267 in the series. 

This session shares the 4th Annual International Overdose Awareness Day vigil held on the Franklin Town Common on Saturday, August 31, 2024. 

SAFE Coalition co-founders, Jen Levine and Jim Derick welcomed the group. Jen spoke first and introduced Rev Jacob Juncker who led the group with a brief prayer. Meg spoke next of her recovery journey and the loss of her brother. Jim Derick spoke of his journey and the loss of his son. Rev Kathy McAdams closed with a prayer.

The group then lit candles, there were a few other remarks but my audio didn’t successfully pick those up. Franklin TV did record the event also. When the video is available, we’ll share that too.

The recording runs about 31 minutes, so let’s listen in. Audio link -> https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1267-ioad-safe-vigil-08-31-24/

--------------

International Overdose Awareness Day -> https://www.overdoseday.com/ 

SAFE Coalition -> https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ 

Photo album of the speakers at the event ->

https://photos.app.goo.gl/dZHnpUwiWmqximfB9

-------------

We are now producing this in collaboration with Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) or 102.9 on the Franklin area radio dial. 

This podcast is my public service effort for Franklin but we can't do it alone. We can always use your help.

How can you help?

• If you can use the information that you find here, please tell your friends and neighbors

• If you don't like something here, please let me know

Through this feedback loop we can continue to make improvements. I thank you for listening.

For additional information, please visit Franklinmatters.org/  or www.franklin.news 

If you have questions or comments you can reach me directly at shersteve @ gmail dot com

The music for the intro and exit was provided by Michael Clark and the group "East of Shirley". The piece is titled "Ernesto, manana"  c. Michael Clark & Tintype Tunes, 2008 and used with their permission.

I hope you enjoy!

------------------

You can also subscribe and listen to Franklin Matters audio on iTunes or your favorite podcast app; search in "podcasts" for "Franklin Matters"

4th Annual vigil for International Overdose Awareness Day held on Town Common (audio)

SAFE Coalition schedules film screening of "Recovery City" - Nov 7, 2024

 Via SAFE Coalition

"We are SO excited to host film director Lisa Olivieri and her team with a viewing of Recovery City directed by Lisa Olivieri in November!  

SAVE THE DATE: November 7th @ 6:30pm! 

Seats are limited! We will host a screening of the documentary and a live Q and A with Lisa and the 4 incredible woman in recovery featured in the film. 

We can’t wait to see you!"

 

SAFE Coalition schedules film screening of "Recovery City" - Nov 7, 2024

Shared from -> https://www.facebook.com/share/JtFXgKX74YaxgxRn/

Franklin Commemorates Overdose Awareness Day with Community Vigil - August 31, 2024

International Overdose Awareness Day will be marked this year in Franklin with a community vigil from 6 PM to 7 PM on August 31 at Franklin Town Common. This annual event is intended to end overdose, remember those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of those left behind. 

The vigil is hosted by SAFE Coalition, a local nonprofit committed to inclusive and judgement-free support for substance use prevention, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, and family support. SAFE and volunteers will also place memorial flags in Franklin, Norfolk, Plainville, and Wrentham. 

Jennifer Knight-Levine, CEO and co-founder of SAFE, says commemoration like IOAD is not just for those whose lives have been touched by overdose, but the entire community. “Losing a loved one to addiction can be isolating and deeply painful,” says Knight-Levine. “Coming together and building community with those who have felt a similar loss leaves everyone with a greater sense of connection and purpose.”

Franklin Commemorates Overdose Awareness Day with Community Vigil - August 31, 2024

The threat of overdose is both serious and urgent. Massachusetts experienced 2,125 fatal overdoses in 2023, making the state 15th in the nation for overdose deaths, according to the state’s Department of Health. The Center for Disease Control reports over 107,000 people died nationwide from overdose in 2023. 

According to Knight-Levine, the need for awareness-raising events like IOAD is more important than ever. 

“The opioid epidemic has dramatically changed how we think about prescribing practices, family medication history, and the power and role of pharmaceutical companies,” says Knight-Levine. “But it has most directly broken families and torn apart communities. This vigil is really a community formed to honor and remember those who have passed from an overdose.”

This year, thousands of communities worldwide will participate in IOAD, which was established in 2001. The theme of IOAD 2024 is “Together We Can,” highlighting the power of our community when we all stand together. 

Those wishing to volunteer with SAFE to place flags or help with the vigils can email info@safecoalitionma.org People can also participate by using the hashtags #TogetherWeCan #IOAD2024 #EndOverdose. 

With support groups, educational courses, events, training, support services and more, SAFE provides a whole-person, whole-family, whole-community approach to addiction, prevention, and recovery. To learn more about SAFE’s offerings or volunteer, visit the SAFE website -> https://www.safecoalitionma.org/

WHAT: Public vigil 

DATE: Saturday, Aug. 31

TIME: 6 PM to 7 PM

PLACE: Franklin Town Common

Lindsey Semas shared insights into the work by the SAFE Coalition (video)

Lindsey Semas shared insights into the work by the SAFE Coalition in this 3 minute video -> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwc-qUFeM-E

Learn more about SAFE at safecoalitionma.org

Learn more about SAFE at safecoalitionma.org

Mark the date: International Overdose Awareness Day - August 31, 2024

"Last year, 2,125 people died from overdose in Massachusetts (MA DPH). Join us to remember and honor loved ones we’ve lost to overdose.

International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) is observed each August 31. On this day, communities worldwide come together to reduce overdose stigma, increase understanding and awareness, remember those who died of overdose, and prevent drug-related harm.

For IOAD, SAFE will host a community vigils from 6 – 7 PM at Franklin and Wrentham Town Commons. They will also work with community members to place memorial flags across the region.

To volunteer with SAFE for Overdose Awareness Day, complete this form forms.office.com/r/pXtEQrKpTi or email info@safecoalitionma.org

Mark the date: International Overdose Awareness Day - August 31, 2024

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C9xIzjTp7Ul/

Safe Coalition teen summer programs begin this week

Safe Coalition teen programs

 

We are OPEN this week! 

SAFE SUMMER PROGRAMS are open for any teen age 13 to 18. 

Looking to learn more? Email us! 

Info@safecoalitionma.org

🟢 Sign up here! tinyurl.com/safeteenreg

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/p/C85WTizRi0L/

Healing the Hurt: Finding Resiliency through Mindfulness - July 17

Join the SAFE Coalition for an evening designed to promote resilience and healing for those impacted by a loved ones struggle with mental health and substance use concerns.

 * Learn about the neurobiology of stress  

 * Understand the impacts of how trauma impacts the body

 * Develop practical ways to mitigate daily stressors and manage family relationships

Registration is required. To sign up please click the "Find Tickets" button in the event post. 

This program is 100% grant funded and is at no cost to the participant.

Shared from -> 

https://facebook.com/events/s/healing-the-hurt-finding-resil/800634852135892/

Register online -> 

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=R0ysOLz4-Uuq3ZCESNyzUgrohZGdxbBGiDnnOiXSnmFURElaQzdEVEk3V1AyVlQxRFdLNjlMVlQ0RC4u&blm_aid=22534

Healing the Hurt: Finding Resiliency through Mindfulness

Hold the date for the next SAFE Cafe featuring The Elastic 5, Sep 14, 2024

SAFE Cafe featuring The Elastic 5, Sep 14, 2024

 

"Join us for an incredible evening of live music by The Elastic 5! 

More details to come! 

We look forward to rocking out with you!"

Shared from - > https://facebook.com/events/s/safe-cafe-september-2024-the-e/588941393550049/

SAFE coalition provides FREE NARCAN training

Via the SAFE Coalition: 

SAFE coalition provides FREE NARCAN training

"Save a life.
Carry Narcan.

Over 100,000 community members lose their life to overdose every year. A higher rate of overdoses happen during the summer months.

One pill can kill.

Fentanyl, Xylazine, and Nitazene are dramatically impacting the rate at which someone experiences an overdose.

You and your loved ones are worthy of support. You are not alone.

We train and provide Narcan at no cost:
email us at info@safecoalitionma.org"

Shared from -> https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8XlVUhxEey/

Featured events by the SAFE Coalition

Be Here Tomorrow

In 2000, Kevin Hines attempted his death by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge at age 19. He survived the fall and ever since he’s dedicated his life to advocating for those with mental pain and talking about mental health. Kevin now travels the world sharing his story of hope and healing while teaching the art of wellness and surviving pain with true resilience. Wednesday May 29, 6-8 PM. Registration and more info here. 

 

Pride Karaoke and Crafts

Join us for an evening of pizza, karaoke, and crafting! We will have plenty of crafts to choose from or you can BYOC (bring your own craft ;). Enjoy DJ'd music and karaoke with friends old and new. All high school-aged youth invited. June 1 6-8 PM at SAFE. Registration required.

 

LGBTQIA+ Community Education Night

Education, resources, support, and ally-ship skill building. June 13 6-7:30 PM at SAFE. Registration and more info here.

 

Families Anonymous

Join our 12-step support group for family members impacted by their loved ones substance use or mental health concern. Tuesdays 6:30 PM. Registration and more info here.

For more about the SAFE Coalition, please visit them at ->   https://www.safecoalitionma.org/

Featured events by the SAFE Coalition

Healthy KP, Hockomock YMCA and SAFE Coalition to Host "Be Here Tomorrow" Speaker Event at Gillette Stadium on May 29

Superintendent Rich Drolet and Healthy KP Coalition Coordinator Oomiya Kawas are pleased to share that speaker Kevin Hines will be telling his story of hope, healing and resiliency at Gillette Stadium on May 29.

In 2000, Hines attempted suicide by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge at age 19. He survived the fall and ever since he has dedicated his life to advocating for those with mental pain and talking about the importance of mental health.

Kevin Hines will be speaking at the "Be Here Tomorrow" event at Cross Insurance Pavilion at Gillette Stadium on May 29. (Photo courtesy Kevin Hines)

The event, entitled "Be Here Tomorrow" is being hosted by community partners Healthy KP, Hockomock Area YMCA and the SAFE Coalition and will be held at the Cross Insurance Pavilion at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough from 6:30-8:30 PM on Wednesday, May 29.

Registration for this free event is required and is open to community members over the age of 10. To sign up click here click here. Doors will open at 6 PM.

Media members are welcome to attend but must register with the event link. Photography is permitted, but videography is not. 

This event is being offered at no cost to the community due to the support and commitment to mental well-being provided by the host organizations.

"It is a priority of ours to advocate for the well-being of our students, which includes providing them with opportunities to learn how to utilize mental health resources," Superintendent Drolet said. "I'm hopeful that Kevin's story will encourage our school community to continue promoting stewardship of their own mental health."

The Healthy KP Coalition is a group of community volunteers dedicated to reducing substance use. Healthy KP’s mission is to empower the communities of Wrentham, Plainville and Norfolk to live a healthy, substance abuse-free life through youth leadership, education, policy, support and training. Healthy KP’s vision is a thriving community free of substance abuse. 

“Education, resources, and support around the importance of mental wellness and mental health is paramount to the reduction of substance abuse and the success of our community members. We want to empower our communities to live long, healthy lives where they are thriving, whatever that means to them," Healthy KP Coalition Coordinator Kawas said. "Kevin's story is deeply moving and powerful, and our community will become closer by witnessing his story together. His resilience reminds us of the importance of caring for our mental wellbeing, and believing that we can be here tomorrow.”

SAFE Gala - May 1 - Event Details!

Hey there!   We are thrilled to host our 2nd annual SAFE Coalition Gala tomorrow evening at the Lakeview Pavilion in Foxborough starting at 5:30pm!   A few details in preparation for the celebration:   Address: 45 Lakeview Rd. Foxborough, MA 02035 Time: 5:30pm - 9:00pm Parking: Lakeview Pavilion has free parking at the venue Check In: Our amazing volunteers will check you in as you enter!   What to expect: FABULOUS Raffle Items! Tickets are 10 for $25, 20 for $40. Signed Patriot items, SOLO stove, salon packages and over 15 more items! Cocktail Hour: Enjoy meeting friends and making connections from 5:30pm - 6:30pm Meet with former New England Patriots Player Rob Ninkovitch! LIVE AUCTION: 4 incredible items...read more below! One example of the Multiple LIVE auction Items: Viva Las Vegas!   Tucked away between the MGM Grand and Planet Hollywood, the Carriage House is the ideal Las Vegas hotel off the "strip". Enjoy comfortable accommodations, convenient in-room features and amenities including complimentary wifi and parking, an outdoor heated pool, and a fitness room!   *Accommodations for 4-6 adults, 2 bedroom suite, subject to availability for exchange in 2024, airfare not included. We are excited to celebrate another year with all of you!   Interested in joining us tomorrow? Tickets are still available! https://pp.events/safegala2024 Warmly, The SAFE Team  Our Contact Information SAFE Coalition 31 Hayward St., Suite 2C Franklin, MA 02038-0434 508-488-8105 http://www.safecoalitionma.org DONATE