In November, the Mitchell-Yancey Substance Abuse Task and Appalachian Youth to Youth hosted an event called the “Communities Talk Town Hall on Vaping and Underage Drinking.” at Mitchell High School. Nearly 100 people attended the event to learn more about current substance use trends among youth, how teenage use negatively impacts health, and ways to start the conversation about the dangers of use.
During the Town Hall meeting, a panel of local youth, law enforcement, health professionals and others addressed the topics of vaping and underage drinking in Mitchell County and responded to community concerns and questions. At the end of the evening, Town Hall participants took part in a survey. 96 percent of respondents said they would share something they learned at the Town Hall with others. The event was so successful, that plans are underway to host a similar Town Hall meeting in Yancey County!
Photo Credit: Brandon Mitchell, Mitchell News Journal
Prior to the Town Hall, Mitchell County middle and high school students were invited to take part in the “What’s Your Anti-Drug” photo contest to depict alternatives to substance use. . Spruce Pine Mayor Darla Harding and District Attorney Seth Banks presented prizes to the winners. First-place winner Isaac Holmes won an iPad, which was donated by the Mitchell County Health Department. Second runner-up Kaylan Stansberry and first runner-up Christopher Bailey won Amazon Echo Dots.
