Monroe County Juvenile Services

05/13/2026

Sometimes the most important step is listening. Taking time to listen to the concerns of a young person in your life can help them feel safe sharing what they’re experiencing. https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/children-and-families

04/29/2026

National Fentanyl Awareness Day on April 29 brings together families, schools, and organizations to tackle one of the most urgent crises facing our community: the rise of illicit fentanyl and fake prescription pills. Fentanyl is often hidden in look-alike pills that appear to be legitimate prescription medications. It only takes a tiny amount to be fatal, making education and preparation our best tools for protection. Talking openly with young people about the dangers of "non-prescribed" pills is the first line of defense. Carrying naloxone (Narcan) can reverse an overdose and save a life in an emergency.

04/23/2026

It’s okay to not be okay. What matters is getting help. Call or text 988 today. 💙
#988

04/22/2026

04/22/2026

04/16/2026

📵 Beyond the Screen Challenge

During Children's Mental Health Action Week (May 3–9), we're inviting teens across Tennessee to make a meaningful pledge: step away from the screens, pay attention to how they feel, and share what they learn.

Here's how it works:
🔹 Choose your pledge — social media, gaming, streaming, or a full detox
🔹 Complete the full week (May 3–9)
🔹 Submit a short reflection (150–200 words or a max 3-minute video) by May 10

Every teen who completes the challenge earns a $10 gift card, and the most meaningful reflections win up to $200.

Know a teen who could use a screen break? Tag them below or share this with a parent, school, or youth group in your network. 👇

📝 Register by May 1 at tnvoices.org/beyond-the-screen or the link in our bio

04/08/2026

Don't forget about the Parent Workshop!

If you have any questions feel free to to reach out! PM or email: [email protected]

Update: cyberyouthtodayadvocacy.netlify.app is currently undergoing updates and redesign. Website should reopen in April!!

Remember to stay cyber space, cyber safe!

-Aubri L. Whaley

04/06/2026

Sextortion is one of the fastest-growing threats facing kids online.

What is Sextortion?
A form of online exploitation where an offender manipulates or coerces someone into sharing explicit images or personal information, then uses threats, fear, or pressure to demand more.

It often starts with something simple: A follow. A DM. A “friend” who seems the same age, with the same interests. But behind the screen is someone building trust with the intent to exploit.

And once they have something? They don’t stop. They escalate.

This is why awareness matters. Because too many kids don’t realize the danger until it’s too late. During Child Sexual Abuse Prevention Month, take a moment to learn the signs, start the conversation, and share this post. You could help protect a child.

Learn more + how to prevent sextortion at our Education hub here: https://childrescuecoalition.org/education/

04/03/2026

Update: found safe

John McGrath, 14, is missing from the Knoxville area. His family believes he may be trying to travel from Knoxville to Loudon to meet a friend.

They are deeply concerned for his safety, believe he may need help, and are unsure how to find it.

If you have any information on John’s whereabouts, remain anonymous by contacting East TN Valley Crime Stoppers
If anonymity is not a concern, call 9‑1‑1 immediately if you see him or know where he is.

04/02/2026

Some of our students and YSOs spent 3 days of Spring Break at the beautiful Indian Boundary campground preparing for their April opening! They picked up 🚮 trash, put up bat 🦇 houses, planted 💐 flowers in the meadows, sanded and painted posts, and cleaned up brush and sticks. The students worked hard and definitely learned some new skills this week. Many had never planted or set poles in concrete. Go visit Indian Boundary, we are so blessed to have it so close! ⛰️

03/12/2026

Va**ng isn’t harmless—and awareness is the first step. 💨 During Va**ng Awareness Month, let’s talk about the risks, support informed choices, and protect our youth. If you’re ready to quit, free help is available through the Tennessee To***co Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Let’s clear the air together.