Regional Youth Prevention Network

06/11/2026

Yesterday evening, Gloucester City Councilor Dylan Benson for Ward 2 attended the Gloucester Youth Leadership Council high school meeting to listen to and learn from our youth leaders about their experiences living and growing up in this community. Councilor Benson also attended the GYLC middle school meeting last week to listen to the perspectives of our middle school leaders.

In both groups, our youth leaders discussed substance use, mental health, bullying, environmental concerns, and other issues their peers are navigating. Councilor Benson took their ideas seriously and came up with some concrete action steps to address these concerns.

Thank you, Councilor Benson, for your dedication to supporting the needs of all Gloucester community members!

Featured in this photo: City Councilor Dylan Benson and GYLC High School members Maggie, Amber, Allison, Julianna, Charlotte, Erika, Isaac, Ella, and Aaliyah

06/11/2026

Did you know?

The Open Door runs a Summer Meals for Kids program! They have sites in Ipswich, Gloucester, and Rockport, but meals are available to any children in the communities served by The Open Door, including Essex, Manchester, Hamilton, Wenham, Rowley, Topsfield, Boxford and Georgetown.

The Open Door even has a new site open M-F from 12-1 pm at the Three Sisters Garden Project at 2 Washington Street in Ipswich!

06/10/2026

Any mental illness such as trauma, depression & chronic stress are closely linked to cardiovascular disease—a leading cause of death among men.

Learn how to talk openly about mental health to better support the men in your life: samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/how-to-talk

06/10/2026

06/10/2026

Want to learn more about reducing the stigma of substance use?

The New England Prevention Technology Transfer Center is hosting a FREE webinar this Friday, June 12 from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm

This interactive session explores the roots, impact, and consequences of stigma surrounding substance use, with a focus on fostering empathy, understanding, and effective approaches to reduce bias. Participants will gain insights into how stigma affects individuals, families, and communities, and will learn practical strategies to create supportive, nonjudgmental environments in behavioral health, workplace, and community settings.

Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/insights-approaches-to-reduce-the-stigma-of-substance-use-tickets-1988631347894?aff=oddtdtcreator

06/09/2026

Join one of two virtual information sessions TODAY to learn how to get involved in the design of a program launching this fall: Gloucester Families Connect!

The Gloucester, MA Health Department is teaming up with REACH Leadership to create a free 5-week program designed to support parents and caregivers of students in late elementary and early middle school.

This summer, we're holding planning sessions to shape the program, and we're offering paid opportunities for parents, guardians, and community members with experience working with or raising upper elementary or middle school kids to help guide the way.

Want to learn more? Sign up for a virtual info session TODAY, Tuesday, June 9th at 12:00 pm or 6:00 pm:
https://forms.gle/Zb2KEGon72ywQF1Z8

06/04/2026

The YOUnity Drop In Center has got some exciting events taking place this month- check them out! All programs are free and open to youth and young adults ages 16 to 26!

06/04/2026

With graduation season approaching, there are lots of opportunities to celebrate this milestone with friends and family. Help your teen make safe choices about substance use by having proactive conversations.

When your teen remembers your support and guidance, they’re more likely to make healthy decisions. A family plan can help them resist peer pressure and avoid underage substance use.

According to SAMHSA, over 80 percent of young people ages 10 to 18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink or not. Your influence matters!

06/04/2026

Pride is public health.

When LGBTQIA+ people feel safe, seen, respected, and supported, health outcomes improve. Strong communities, social connection, and a sense of belonging can help reduce stigma, support mental well-being, and make it easier for people to access the care and resources they need.

This Pride Month, we celebrate the strength, diversity, and resilience of LGBTQIA+ communities. Everyone deserves the opportunity to live healthy, authentic lives and know they belong.