Q-DRUG has been a part of our community since 2014.  We work to bring together the many voices and perspectives within our community, to stand together to prevent youth substance use, and support those who struggle with substances use disorder (either their own use or that of a loved one). 

The coalition began as a response to the opioid crisis and the deaths that heroin and pills were causing in our community. Through a lot of conversations and surveys we have come to understand that the drugs that our youth are facing, by and large, are those that are legal in our community for adult use.  We work with parents and community members to share information and support for all youth in our community, to make healthy choices and remain substance free. We have worked for the past 8 years to share information and education with all members of our community, through the support of our local police departments, school members, health care providers, community leaders and elected officials.

There has been a significant decrease in youth substance use in our community since we began our work. There are more students graduating from Quabbin Regional High School with never having used any substances than ever before.  Students are now more likely to vocally support peers in their decisions to be substance free, and to request support for those who are using substances.  Parents are more aware of the dangers of substances, including the dangers of marijuana use, through educational programs and advocacy.

You have seen the purple ribbons in our town over the past 7 years, where many businesses, organizations and individuals in our community have shown their support for our local youth making healthy choices. We have shared our message throughout the 5 towns of the Quabbin District, and seek to continue to build connections within each of our towns.  We need the support of all of our community to continue to make impacts on the youth.

Examples of events that Q-DRUG has offered in the past