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Monday 9am - 5pm Tuesday 9am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5pm Friday 9am - 5pm

http://www.upnorthprevention.org/

Up North Prevention, 154 S Ripley Boulevard, Alpena, MI (2025)

12/13/2025

Presque Isle County Up North Prevention and Coalition Spreads Holiday Cheer at Back-to-Back Christmas Parades

Presque Isle County Up North Prevention brought plenty of holiday spirit to the community over the past two weekends as their float proudly participated in two Christmas parades across the county which covered Rogers City and Posen communities. Adding a playful twist to their message, the Christmas Grinch waved along the parade route with an important reminder for all: “Don’t let the Substance Grinch steal your Christmas spirit—stay substance free!”

Children and adults lined the streets, cheering as the brightly decorated float passed by. Parade-goers were treated to a flurry of festive giveaways, including candy tossed to the crowd by Students Leading Students as well as glow-in-the-dark necklaces that lit up the night. After the parade, kids young and old were able to get pictures with the Christmas Grinch or just shake hands.
With joyful energy, colorful lights, and a meaningful message, Up North Prevention helped make the season a little brighter—and a little healthier—for everyone in Presque Isle County.

12/12/2025

ROGERS CITY AND POSEN HIGH SCHOOLS QUALIFY FOR STRIVE FOR A SAFER DRIVE CAMPAIGN 2025

The Students Leading Students (SLS) chapters at Rogers City High School and Posen High School have been selected to participate in the statewide Strive For A Safer Drive (S4SD) campaign. S4SD is a teen driving initiative focused on reducing serious traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities among Michigan’s most inexperienced drivers. The program is presented by Ford Philanthropy in partnership with the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP).
Both schools will receive $1,000 to support their student-led safe driving campaigns, which will run from November through April. All Michigan high schools are eligible to apply for the S4SD program. Congratulations to both SLS Chapters in Posen and Rogers City on being selected for this campaign.

12/11/2025

Live Well Kalkaska Coalition Partners with Michigan State Police During Parent–Teacher Conferences

In October and November, the Live Well Kalkaska Coalition partnered with the Michigan State Police to engage with families during Parent–Teacher Conferences at Forest Area High School and Middle School, as well as Kalkaska High School and Middle School. The team set up an information table inside the schools, offering parents a variety of valuable resources aimed at keeping kids safe and supporting healthy choices. Materials included Narcan, Deterra drug deactivation bags, and ma*****na lock bags—all provided free to parents to help reduce the risk of accidental exposure or misuse at home. Outside the schools, the Michigan State Police brought their Hidden in Plain Sight trailer, an interactive exhibit designed to show parents how everyday items and environments can conceal signs of substance use. Parents were able to walk through the trailer and gain practical insights on what to look for, sparking meaningful conversations about prevention and awareness. This partnership was a great opportunity for the Live Well Kalkaska Coalition to connect directly with families, provide tangible tools for safety, and reinforce our mission of promoting a healthier, substance-free community. Engaging parents in these conversations helps strengthen families and ensures that our youth have the support they need to thrive.

12/10/2025

On a crisp evening last month, the Live Well Kalkaska Coalition welcomed over 30 community members to the annual Serenity Vigil, a moving event dedicated to remembering those affected by substance use and offering hope and support to those on the journey toward recovery. Families, friends, and neighbors gathered together, sharing a moment of reflection, compassion, and connection that highlighted the strength of our community. The vigil was bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, each flame symbolizing remembrance, resilience, and the enduring light we can bring into one another’s lives. Music filled the air, creating a serene atmosphere that encouraged reflection and togetherness. A deeply personal story of loss and resilience was shared, touching hearts, and reminding attendees of both the pain of substance use and the courage it takes to face these challenges. Participants were invited to place ornaments on the Serenity Tree, honoring loved ones lost or those still navigating the challenges of substance use. The act of placing an ornament became a shared moment of healing, connection, and hope. The spirit of giving continued beyond the vigil. Any leftover food was sent home with Jamie’s Cottage, a local women’s recovery home, extending the care and compassion of the evening. The Serenity Vigil is more than a ceremony—it is a testament to community strength, compassion, and the power of shared stories. Through events like this, the Live Well Kalkaska Coalition continues to foster awareness, support, and hope for a safer and healthier future for all.

11/25/2025

Up North Prevention Hosts Naloxone Training

A naloxone training will be held for the public at the Alcona Commission On Aging on Wednesday, December 10, from 4 – 5 Pm. The program, sponsored by the Alcona Opioid Settlement Committee, will feature Up North Prevention’s Donna Hardies as the afternoon’s facilitator and instructor. The focus will be about how to safely and correctly reverse an opioid overdose, and the steps to take to ensure an effective recovery. The program will also feature the science of naloxone, as well as a look at the addiction and dependency of opioids. This is a free event, and will include light refreshments. If possible, please register ahead by contacting Les Thomas at 989-736-8534 Et- 4313.

11/24/2025

Alcona SLS Hosts National Speaker to Address Mental Health

Kevin Szawala, known as, “Mr Peace” came to Alcona Schools in November to talk to students about bullying, the importance of taking care of your mental health, and being the best possible version of yourself. The program was catered to three groups, 3rd - 5th graders, middle school, and high schoolers. Each program was filled with heartfelt stories, life lessons, and Mr. Peace’s signature hip-hop. Each show was interactive, engaging and addressed key issues for students. To see a recap clip of his program, check out Mr. Peace at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CEQia6-T1I&list=PLwlGxw-4Ak7hPjF11AWLdSoGWtDD2UEyg&index=1

11/23/2025

Atlanta and Hillman Students Leading Students Chapters Receive Leadership Training

Last week, the Students Leading Students (SLS) chapters from both Atlanta and Hillman participated in a full-day leadership training at Alcona High School. They joined fellow chapters from Alcona, Tawas, Rogers City, and Oscoda. Throughout the day, students engaged in a variety of sessions designed to strengthen their chapters and enhance their ability to make a positive impact within their schools.

11/22/2025

Alcona SLS Addresses Food Insecurities With Food Drive

The members of the Alcona Chapter of Students Leading Students hosted a food drive at the end of October to address food insecurities among students and their families. The drive was set up as a classroom challenge, with all proceeds going to the Alcona School’s student locker. The “locker” serves both the high school and elementary and is a place where students can go and pick up free items, from food, to personal care, clothing and winter boots. With the prospect of SNAP dollars not being available in November, the group thought this was a great initiative for their chapter, as food insecurity ties directly to mental health. The winning classroom, Mrs. Luce – Wilson’s 4th hour, averaged 4.4 items donated per person, and will receive an ice cream sundae party, served by SLS members.

11/21/2025

Up North Prevention Partners During Take Back Day

Up North Prevention partnered with the Alcona Commission on Aging and the Alcona Sherriff’s Office to facilitate a prescription medicine take back day in October. In addition to the takeback portion of the event, prevention staff also gave away Naloxone, cannabis and ni****ne test kits, as well as t-shirts and zipper lock bags. Almost 4 pounds of medicine was collected and turned over to the Alcona Sherriff’s Office and staff interacted with more than 20 individuals. Another take back event is already scheduled for March with the Commission on Aging.

11/04/2025

Alpena High School’s Students Leading Students (SLS) members enthusiastically embraced Red Ribbon Week by actively engaging their peers in meaningful conversations about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Through creative messaging and peer-led initiatives, they promoted awareness around making positive choices that steer clear of drugs, alcohol, and other self-destructive behaviors. Their efforts not only highlighted the value of personal well-being but also fostered a supportive school environment where students feel empowered to make informed decisions for their future.

11/03/2025

National Drug take back day, October 27,2025, Up North Prevention collaborated with four Northeast Michigan law enforcement agencies to facilitate the safe disposal of unwanted or outdated prescription medications. Through this partnership, a total of 649.5 pounds of medications were collected from the participating agencies and transported to Flint, Michigan, where it was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for proper disposal.

This coordinated effort played a crucial role in preventing potentially dangerous substances from circulating in the community, particularly in schools or on the streets where they could be misused. By working together, Up North Prevention and local law enforcement ensured that these medications were securely handled and eliminated, promoting public safety and supporting substance abuse prevention initiatives.

10/30/2025

Posen High School's Red Ribbon Week campaign honors the legacy of DEA agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena, whose tragic death in 1985 inspired the national drug prevention movement.

Red Ribbon Week, observed annually from October 23 to October 31, is the nation’s largest and longest-running drug-use prevention campaign. Posen High School’s Students Leading Students (SLS) group kicked off their celebration with themed sunglasses reading “Life is a Puzzle, Solve It Drug Free” this year’s official slogan. The sunglasses were a hit among students, helping to spark conversations about living drug-free and making healthy choices.

The campaign’s origins trace back to the heartbreaking story of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena. On February 7, 1985, Camarena was abducted in broad daylight outside the U.S. Consulate in Guadalajara, Mexico, just weeks before he was scheduled to return home. He had spent over four years undercover, investigating major drug cartels and contributing to the discovery of a massive ma*****na operation in ChihuahuaGet Smart About Drugs. His work threatened powerful drug traffickers and corrupt officials, leading to his kidnapping and murder. His pilot, Captain Alfredo Zavala-Avelar, was also abducted the same day.

Camarena’s death shocked the nation. In response, communities across the U.S. began wearing red ribbons to honor his sacrifice and to promote drug awareness. This grassroots movement evolved into Red Ribbon Week, officially recognized by Congress in 1988. Today, it serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention education.

Posen High’s campaign is part of a broader effort to engage students with meaningful activities, educational resources, and community support. By distributing items like sunglasses and hosting events, schools aim to empower youth to make informed, drug-free choices.

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Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm