Youth Substance Misuse Prevention Messaging That Is Working in Central Florida

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

11:15 AM – 12:30 PM

Location: A412 GWCC

Presenter(s)

Stanley Brizz, MS

Executive Director
Brevard Prevention Coalition
Cocoa Beach, FL
Maria Bledsoe, MS

Chief Executive Officer
Central Florida Cares Health System, Inc.
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL
Christopher Maslow

Visual Artist/Muralist
Christopher Maslow Fine Art
Melbourne, FL

Moderator(s)

Judy Fitzgerald, MSW

Social Worker
Smyrna, Georgia

This session is an immersive experience that vividly demonstrates two branded approaches for youth substance misuse prevention currently used in Central Florida: I Choose ME® and BETTER WITHOUT IT.

I Choose ME® is a social marketing strategy promoting positive life choices as an alternative to illicit use of substances. Its predominant audience is youths under 12 years old and their families. It teaches youths more than just how to say “no." Rather, it gives youths the tools, facts, possibilities, and inspiration to make informed decisions that are more likely to lead to positive outcomes in life. I Choose ME® includes music, visual arts, sports, outdoor activities, law enforcement engagement, and school collaboration to effectively promote substance misuse prevention.
The BETTER WITHOUT IT campaign meets Gen Z (mostly teens to 25 years old) where they are - not only with clear, objective information about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, but also a critical message of empowerment. The campaign helps teens and young adults understand that their minds, their bodies, and their relationships are already better without illicit substance use.

Session attendees will hear from the regional substance misuse services funding entity and prevention coalition leadership to understand the principles behind these approaches, how to utilize these methods, and how to leverage local resources to use these strategies. In addition, a renowned muralist will demonstrate how one component of these approaches is used in local schools.

Learning Objectives:

Describe how visual arts can be used effectively to engage youths in alternative activities for early intervention and prevention of substance misuse
Describe how internet-based interventions can effectively reach and engage youths with substance misuse prevention messaging
Identify ways to leverage regional resources and capital to develop and implement these effective prevention strategies, including local law enforcement agencies