A Letter from the Executive Director
Dear Friends and Community Partners,
As we reflect on this quarter, I am continually reminded of the incredible power of creativity in shaping healthier, stronger lives. At our coalition, we know that prevention is not only about saying no to harmful substances-it’s also about building meaningful connections, fostering resilience, and giving individuals of all ages healthy ways to express themselves.
This is where the arts play such a powerful role. Whether through painting, music, dance, or creative writing, the arts provide an outlet for emotions that can sometimes feel too heavy to carry alone.
Studies show that creative expression helps reduce stress, improve mental health, and strengthen coping skills-all of which are protective factors against substance use and suicide.
Over the past few months, we have seen firsthand how art-based prevention programs spark joy, hope, and healing. From youth picking up paintbrushes to express their feelings, to adults discovering new ways to connect through creativity, these moments remind us that prevention is not just about avoiding risks—it is about creating opportunities for growth and belonging.
As we move forward, our coalition remains committed to weaving the arts into our prevention strategies. By doing so, we not only help protect our community from the harms of addiction and suicide but also nurture a culture where creativity, resilience, and well-being can flourish.
Thank you for standing with us in this mission. Together, we are creating a community where hope lives, recovery is possible, and every person has a chance to thrive.
With gratitude,
Nash Acuna
Executive Director
