In July, seven families, 17 participants, and three staff members came together for a fun-filled canoe trip on the beautiful Manistee River from Smithville Landing. This family activity was coordinated by the Live Well Kalkaska Substance Free Coalition as part of our ongoing efforts to provide positive, healthy, substance-free opportunities for youth and families in Kalkaska County. Transportation, the canoe trip, and lunch were all provided through our Community Policing Gra

The Up North Prevention team from Catholic Human Services recently attended the 2026 Rural Michigan Opioid and Substance Use Summit in Gaylord, joining professionals from across the state who are dedicated to strengthening prevention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery efforts. The summit provided valuable continuing education, opportunities to learn about innovative programs, and meaningful conversations with partners working to improve the health and well-being of Mich

At the end of the school year, the stakes are higher for students as finals, projects, and other classroom work culminate, wrapping up a 40 week marathon to summer vacation. Traditionally, much of the emphasis on mental health support is directed toward these students, but Students Leading Students (SLS) members recognized an additional need. Teachers, counselors, custodians, and administrators are under similar pressure, so the Alcona SLS chapter decided to do something abou

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, participants enjoyed a fun-filled trip to the weekly bowling outing, where they spent time building friendships, staying active, and making great memories. The fun doesn't stop there! Other weekly adventures include getting creative at Art in the Loft and cooling off with a swim at the Alpena Plaza Pool. These exciting experiences give youth the chance to explore new interests, stay engaged, and enjoy healthy, positive activities throughout the sum

Up North Prevention was proud to participate in Kids' Day at the AuSable River Festival in Crawford County on July 21! Our prevention team spent the day engaging with children and families through fun, interactive activities focused on building important life skills and educating youth about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. We were excited to connect with approximately 500 children and family members, providing prevention education and resources that encourag

The Crawford Partnership to End Substance Misuse (CPESM) recently participated in Neighborhood Connect, a community event focused on bringing local organizations together to connect families with valuable resources and services. The event provided a great opportunity to strengthen community partnerships, including meeting several colleagues in person after previously connecting only through virtual meetings. Throughout the day, CPESM shared prevention resources and educationa

The Crawford Partnership to End Substance Misuse recently joined Dr. David McGreaham for an important presentation at the Crawford County Commission on Aging, highlighting a growing but often overlooked public health concern: overdose among older adults. During the presentation, Dr. McGreaham shared that adults ages 55 and older have the highest rate of overdose deaths. He discussed how medication misuse, including the use of multiple prescriptions, accidental misuse, and int

This summer, members of the Atlanta Students Leading Students (SLS) chapter joined youth leaders from seven other SLS chapters across Northern Michigan for an inspiring Summer Leadership Summit in Gaylord. The summit brought together student leaders who share a common goal—making their schools and communities healthier, safer, and more connected. Throughout the day, students participated in interactive leadership activities, team-building exercises, and discussions focused on