Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition

10/27/2026

Honored to be invited back to the Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition event this morning! It is always a privilege to sit down with local students, listen to their concerns, and hear their fresh perspectives on our community.

This biennial event is incredibly impactful. In fact, it was at this exact event two years ago that conversations with the students inspired me to propose and help establish Lower Salford Township's Junior Supervisor Program. It gave our youth a real voice in local government, and it’s been wonderful to see other local boards and municipalities look into adopting similar youth initiatives since then!

Also, a huge thank you to Jamila H. Winder , Chair of the Montgomery County Commissioners, for her fantastic and inspiring keynote address today.

Grateful for everyone working together to support and uplift the next generation! 🇺🇸✨

10/27/2026

It was an honor to be invited to the Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition (IVCCC) breakfast this morning to hear from speakers on the the topic of character. The mission of IVCCC is to promote positive youth development. I had a chance to engage in conversations with middle and high school students. I was so impressed by them! They face so many pressures, but they are open to discussing them and the ways they deal with stress. I loved hearing about their plans for their futures and seeing how excited they are for the great things ahead of them. I’m looking forward to working hard in Harrisburg to provide the support all students need to succeed in Pennsylvania.

10/27/2026

I was pleased to attend the 2026 Indian Valley Character Counts! Coalition Community Town Hall Breakfast in Harleysville. The event brought community members together to discuss youth mental health, substance abuse prevention and ways to better support the next generation. We also got to hear directly from local students, who shared their concerns that legalizing recreational ma*****na could make it easier for young people to access it. Their perspectives reinforced the importance of listening to our youth as we work together to build a healthier, stronger community. Thank you to the Coalition and its partners for their continued commitment to our young people.

10/27/2026

10/27/2026

Red Ribbon Week has a history rooted in prevention, remembrance, and community action.

What began as a way to honor the memory of DEA Special Agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena and his dedication to stopping drug trafficking has grown into a nationwide campaign encouraging young people, families, and communities to make healthy, drug-free choices.

This Red Ribbon Week, we’re continuing that tradition by showing that prevention starts with all of us.

10/27/2026

This is Red Ribbon Week 🎀❣️
This year’s theme, “Make A Difference. Be A Hero. Stay Drug Free.” is a reminder that we can all be heroes in our own communities.

Choosing to be drug-free can help build a stronger, healthier future where young people thrive.

Remember, you don’t need superpowers to be a hero. Showing support, kindness, and connection can make all the difference.

10/27/2026

Prevention and mental wellness go hand in hand.

Healthy coping skills, open conversations, and supportive environments can help young people manage stress, build resilience, and increase overall wellbeing.

10/27/2026

Sometimes it can feel like “everyone is doing it,” but perception doesn’t always match reality.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), many young people actually say no to substances every day.

Creating supportive environments and open conversations can help reduce pressure and encourage positive decision-making.

10/27/2026

Mental health support is substance use prevention.

When teens have access to trusted resources and someone to talk to, they have tools to navigate stress and challenges in healthier ways.

These resources are available to Montgomery County teens and families 24/7 when support is needed.

Save this post and share it with someone who may need it. ♥️

10/27/2026

Protective factors are the positive influences and supports that help youth navigate challenges and reduce risks.

Things like supportive relationships, healthy coping skills, positive routines, and community connection can make a meaningful difference in young people’s ability to say no to substances.

Prevention isn’t just about avoiding risks. It’s also about building support.