Testimonials recorded at the SAFE Gala - April 17, 2026 (audio)

FM #1730 = This is the Franklin Matters radio show, number 1730 in the series. 

This episode shares the testimonials I was able to gather during the SAFE Coalition Gala held on April 17, 2026 at Gillette Stadium. I was fortunate to have an official Press Pass for the evening and am grateful to be able to share these recorded testimonials with the community. 

Testimonials from

• Lucas Giguere, Superintendent Franklin Public Schools

• Jim Derick, co-founder of the SAFE Coalition

• Jeff Roy, Franklin’s State Representative

• Bob Dellorco & Greg Connor

The conversation runs about 15 minutes, let’s listen

Audio link - https://franklin-ma-matters.captivate.fm/episode/fm-1730-testimonials-at-safe-gala-04-17-26/

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

SAFE Coalition web page  https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ 

Franklin TV recorded the speaker portion of GALA  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-Xby1B-lQM 

Video testimonial from Mark, a client of SAFE https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/04/safe-coalition-hear-marks-story-video.html 

Other links of the SAFE Gala  https://www.franklinmatters.org/2026/04/safe-coalition-holds-their-10th.html 

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

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

• And if you have interest in reporting on meetings or events, please reach out. We’ll share and show you what and how we do what we do

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"

SAFE Coalition: Hear Mark's Story (video)

"Mark represents everything we stand for at SAFE: compassion, dedication, and meeting people where they are. He reminds us that every person deserves dignity, respect, and to never feel alone—and that’s exactly what we strive to provide to everyone who walks through our doors.

Will you join Mark in investing in people?

Together, we can continue to show up, stand beside those in need,

and turn hope into action."

Donate here - https://secure.qgiv.com/event/safe2026/donate

Additional info on the SAFE Gala held recently

Franklin TV: SAFE, 10th GALA

SAFE Coalition Celebrates at Gillette Stadium

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 04/12/2026

When the SAFE Coalition began humbly in Wrentham who knew that its growth, and more importantly, its impact across the state would be so incredible? It’s staff and volunteers are amazing. It’s cause runs deep through every heart. When you understand the critical work they do there’s only one response. “How can we help?” 

Now, 10 years on – time to enjoy a moment to celebrate. The evening’s festivities were hosted (and serenaded) by Jim Derick and Jeff Roy. (Standing ovation.)

And – as always –

Thank you for watching. 

Thanks for listening to wfpr●fm,

and staying informed at Franklin●news.

You can watch the Gala  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-Xby1B-lQM

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

SAFE Coalition holds their 10th Anniversary celebration at Gillette Stadium (video)

A sell out gathering of 500 or so folks celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the SAFE Coalition with a GALA event at Gillette Stadium, Friday, April 17, 2026.

You can view the  live streamed event via Franklin TV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-Xby1B-lQM

Photo album of the event - https://photos.app.goo.gl/sGEetaQy4eSKFmbg8

SAFE Coalition holds their 10th Anniversary celebration at Gillette Stadium

What's happening in Franklin, MA: Friday, April 17, 2026 ???

Friday, April 17

9:00am Fallen Hero: John J. Kell (Franklin Town Common)

10:00am Knitting Group (Franklin Public Library)

1:00pm Thrifty Threads (Franklin Federated Church)

5:30pm The SAFE Gala: An Evening of Giving (tickets sold out; online auction available)

Senior Center events

For Library events -> 

https://www.franklinma.gov/942/Calendar-of-Events

For additional details on Senior Center events ->   

https://www.franklinma.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=37,24&showPastEvents=false

Note: Senior Center checking on why their events are suddenly being shown as "All Day". You can use the monthly newsletter for specific program/event times

*** NO Town Meetings today   ***

----------

Find the full Community event calendar  https://bit.ly/FranklinCommunityCalendar

If you have an event to add to the calendar, you can use the form to submit it for publication:  https://bit.ly/Submit2Calendar

The Town meeting calendar is found  https://www.franklinma.gov/Calendar.aspx
The School district calendar is found  https://franklinpublicschooldistrictma.sites.thrillshare.com/o/fpsd/page/school-calendar

Drug take back day - Saturday, April 25

Safely dispose of medications at SAFE’s RX disposal stations, part of the DEA’s National Take Back Day. It's completely free and totally anonymous!

Saturday, April 25  from 10 AM to noon 

Locations: 

- Franklin, SAFE Office 

- Medway Town Hall 

- Norfolk Police Department 

- Wrentham Town Hall

- Millis Fire Department 

What can you bring? Any medication you want to get rid of—over-the-counter pills, prescription medications, and even liquids and creams. 

We CANNOT accept sharps/syringes. 

​

Supported by Opioid Abatement Funds from the Towns of Franklin, Norfolk, Medway, Millis, and Wrentham.

Shared from = https://www.instagram.com/p/DW1liqhkvuI/

Reminder: SAFE Gala online auction open and ready

OUR ONLINE AUCTION IS OFFICIALLY OPEN! https://tinyurl.com/bidsafe

You don't have to attend the gala to bid—anyone can participate in our virtual silent auction supporting SAFE Coalition's 10th Anniversary Gala!

Browse 60+ items including tickets to Kimberly Akimbo and Motley Crue, gift cards to local restaurants, custom portraits, self-care packages, and so much more. New items added daily!

How to participate:

• Already have a gala ticket? You're all set—log in with the email on your ticket.
• Want to bid but not attending? Register for FREE by clicking "Buy Tickets" and selecting "Virtual Auction Access" (does NOT include admission to the gala)

All proceeds support SAFE's life-saving prevention, recovery, and mental health services. Happy bidding!

Note: Tickets for the Gala have sold out

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HmLqqk2pm/

SAFE coalition NARCAN training in Norfolk, Medway & North Attleboro this week - Yes, it is free !!

Free Narcan training this week! No registration required and open to all! 

Attendees will:

➡ Learn how to recognize an overdose

➡ Practice administering Narcan

➡ Develop confidence in responding to an overdose

➡ Leave with 2, 4mg doses of Narcan

📆 See all upcoming trainings or request training: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/narcan-training 

Supported by Towns of Millis, Norfolk, Medway, and North Attleborough Opioid Abatement Funds

🌟MILLIS

 📆 Monday, April 13

🕛 3:00–5:00 p.m. (drop in anytime)

📍Millis Public Library

🌟NORFOLK

 📆 Wednesday, April 15

🕛 1:00–2:00 p.m.

📍Norfolk Public Library

🌟MEDWAY

 📆 Wednesday, April 15

🕛 2:30–3:30 p.m.

📍Medway Public Library

🌟NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH

 📆 Saturday, April 18

🕛 1:00–2:00 p.m.

📍N. Attleboro Public Library

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18WdScWeV5/

You Don't Have to Attend the Gala to Bid! The Virtual Auction is OPEN

The online auction for SAFE's 10th Anniversary Gala is officially OPEN and you don't have to attend the gala to participate!   Here's a sneak peek at what's up for grabs across 60+ items: Tickets to Kimberly Akimbo and Motley Crue Gift cards to BJ's Brewhouse, The Rome Restaurant, and more local favorites Vacation planning services, a Day Trip to Mystic Seaport, and a Boston Tourist package Custom portraits, jewelry, and home goods Self-care packages, custom training sessions, and an outdoor fire pit Here's how to get started:   NOT attending the gala but want to bid? Register for free at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/safe2026/items/ and select "Virtual Auction Access - NO EVENT ADMISSION." This gives you access to browse and bid online only; it is NOT a ticket or admission to the gala event itself. If you'd like to attend the gala in person, select "Individual Ticket" instead, which also includes virtual auction access.   Already have a gala ticket? You already have access! Use the email address associated with your ticket to log in (please do NOT register for "Virtual Auction Access”). You can also click "Set Up Bidding" in your confirmation email (subject: "Your 2026 SAFE Gala Tickets") to log in and start browsing.  Having trouble? Email our support team at info@safecoalitionma.org All auction proceeds support SAFE Coalition's life-saving prevention, recovery, and mental health programs across southeastern Massachusetts. Happy bidding!     Thank you for your continued support of SAFE's life-saving work! Our Contact Information SAFE Coalition 31 Hayward St., Suite 2C Franklin, MA 02038-0434 508-488-8105 http://www.safecoalitionma.org

Drug take back day April 25

Safely dispose of medications at SAFE’s RX disposal stations, part of the DEA’s National Take Back Day. It's completely free and totally anonymous!

Saturday, April 25 from 10 AM to Noon 

Locations: 

- Franklin, SAFE Office 

- Medway Town Hall 

- Norfolk Police Department 

- Wrentham Town Hall

- Millis Fire Department 

What can you bring? Any medication you want to get rid of—over-the-counter pills, prescription medications, and even liquids and creams. 

We CANNOT accept sharps/syringes. 

​

Supported by Opioid Abatement Funds from the Towns of Franklin, Norfolk, Medway, Millis, and Wrentham.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18UiunErvM/

SAFE answers your question on anxiety & panic attacks

Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more. 

SAFE answers your question
on anxiety & panic attacks

👇Check out this week’s Q&A!  

Q: What's the difference between anxiety and panic attacks?  

A: Symptoms of anxiety often build up over time and are more long-term (persistent worrying, restlessness, difficulty relaxing, trouble concentrating) while panic attacks occur suddenly and are much more intense.   

Anxiety often stems from a triggering situation while panic attacks are sudden, often described as "out of the blue." Panic symptoms often include racing heart, difficulty breathing, sweaty palms, stomachache, nausea, or fear of death, among others. They typically subside within 10–30 minutes while anxiety is more persistent. Assessing the length of time an episode lasts can be helpful in differentiating between anxiety and panic attacks. 

-----------------------------  

Submit questions and view past answers at: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ask-safe

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/1GEd1mSeGm/

Safe Coalition - 10 Year Gala of Giving - April 17

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT LOADING… 

Safe Coalition - 10 Year Gala of Giving - April 17

We’re keeping a secret (for now), but trust us—you’re going to want to be in the room when we reveal our special partnership at the 10 Year Gala of Giving.

Limited seats remain… don’t miss it.

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/183bsXEz8Q/

Tickets for the Gala available - https://secure.qgiv.com/event/safe2026/

Q: How do I use substances more safely if I'm not ready to quit?

Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more. 

👇Check out this week’s Q&A!  

Q: How do I use substances more safely if I'm not ready to quit?  

A: This is a great question and really highlights the importance of the harm reduction model of public health! You can still prioritize your health and recovery, even if you're not ready to completely quit substances all together.

   

The more information we have about the substances being used, the more we are able to reduce risks. It's important to know what exactly is being used, what the effects are (physical and mental), as well as potential interactions. Fentanyl test strips can help reduce the risk of opioid overdose. Using new and clean syringes, pipes, and vapes can reduce the risk of transmitting diseases or infections. Avoid using substances alone and always carry Narcan!  

NEVER USE ALONE: you can call the National Overdose Prevention Hotline to have someone on the phone with you if you are planning to use alone; they can call for EMS if you stop responding: https://neverusealone.com/ or 800-484-3731 

-----------------------------  

Submit questions and view past answers at: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ask-safe 

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18DBLLXK1q/

Registration is now open for SAFE Coalition's FREE six-week IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group

IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group

Registration is now open for SAFE Coalition's FREE six-week IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group! tinyurl.com/safecaregroup

If you're a parent, grandparent, foster parent, or caregiver for a child who:

• Has an IEP or 504 plan
• Has been diagnosed with a learning difference
• and/or is navigating a health-related condition that affects school or daily life

...this group was made for you!

Thursdays, April 30–June 4 | 6:00–7:30 PM | SAFE Coalition (Franklin)

Questions? Contact SAFE at info@safecoalitionma.org or (508) 488-8105

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DjLb5EEkJ/

SAFE Coalition answers: "What are healthy ways to deal with anger?"

SAFE Coalition answers: "What are
healthy ways to deal with anger?"

Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more. 

👇Check out this week’s Q&A! 

 

Q: What are healthy ways to deal with anger?

A: Anger is a perfectly normal, healthy, and helpful emotion that deserves to be felt and doesn't necessarily need to be "dealt with." 

We do, however, want to use healthy strategies to help us identify, experience, and process our anger. Engaging in physical activity (running, strength training, dancing) is effective in releasing tension in our bodies. Crying, screaming (in a safe, private space), and even singing can also help us process and express our anger in a way that is safe.  You can also try writing/journaling about your anger and then ripping the paper into tiny pieces! 

-----------------------------  

Submit questions and view past answers at: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ask-safe    #askSAFE

Shared from - https://www.facebook.com/share/18ExdMLPfM/

Have you tried the Box Breathing Technique ?? great advice via SAFE Coalition !!!

Each week, a SAFE Licensed Clinical Social Worker answers questions about mental health, substance use recovery, wellness, and more.

Check out this week’s Q&A!

Q: What are some strategies for managing stress at work or school?

A: Some strategies can help calm our bodies (box breathing) while other strategies are more helpful for calming our minds (writing down to-do lists).

Box breathing can help you refocus. For 5 seconds each: inhale, hold, and then exhale. Repeat.

When feeling overwhelmed by your workload, try physically writing down a to-do list. This tool will help you see what needs prioritized, and then you can break those tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

Be sure to cross them off your list after you tackle them!

Have you tried the Box Breathing Technique ??   great advice via SAFE Coalition  !!!

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

Submit questions and view past answers at: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/ask-safe

Shared from - https://www.instagram.com/p/DVg8kxnFLvF/

SAFE Coalition: Back to Life - Youth Theater Project Starting this April

Back to Life: Youth Theater Project Starting this April

Back to Life - Youth Theater Project Starting this April

Date: Thursdays, April 2–May 7, 2026

Time: 3:00–5:00 p.m.

Location: SAFE Adolescent Wellness Center (Franklin)

Ages: 13–18

This spring, SAFE is partnering with Drug Story Theater to bring a powerful new program to the Adolescent Wellness Center.

Back to Life: Youth Theater Project is a free, 6-week theater program for teens ages 13–18. Starting April 2, participants will meet weekly to rehearse and perform an original play that tackles some of the hardest conversations facing young people today: substance use, fentanyl contamination, friendship, and asking for help.

Whether a teen wants to be center stage or help behind the scenes with lighting, sound, or set design, there's a place for them in this program. No theater experience is needed!

The series wraps up with a public performance on May 7, followed by a community talkback with Dr. Joseph Shrand, a nationally recognized expert in adolescent addiction. It's an opportunity for teens to not only express themselves creatively, but to become real educators in their communities, helping audiences understand overdose prevention and destigmatizing the use of Narcan.

If you know a teen who would benefit from this program, we'd love for you to share it with them. Registration is open now - https://www.safecoalitionma.org/get-support/youth-theater-project?blm_aid=465921

Back to Life: Youth Theater Project is made possible by the generous support of Mass Cultural Council, Lawson Charitable Foundation, and Community Health Systems Foundation.