Two local businesses are helping five members of the SRSLY Youth Steering Committee and six adult SRSLY members will travel to Austin, Texas, in July to meet and learn from prevention leaders from across the country.
Jet’s Pizza and Back to the Roots owners Jason Povlich and Jason Bendinelli are hosting fundraisers at their two Chelsea restaurants throughout the month of May to help with the funding for the trip.
In May, dine-in every Monday at Jet’s and every Saturday at Back to the Roots and a portion of proceeds will be donated to SRSLY.
“At Jet’s Pizza and Back to the Roots, we believe in doing business for purpose,” said Povlich. “Life is more than just money. Life is enjoying creation and community.”
The Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) Mid-Year Training Institute brings together youth and adults working to prevent substance abuse in their communities. During five days, SRSLY members will learn about evidence-based prevention strategies, the latest science and research, and effective coalition-building tools. They will also meet and network with their peers from around the country, including hundreds of youth coalition members and leaders.
Funds raised at Jet’s Pizza and Back to the Roots will help cover the cost of conference registration and travel.
“I really liked that we were able to be in a working environment with so many other kids around our age who are working towards the same goal as us,” said Renae Kempf, a 9th grade student and member of the SRSLY YSC who attended this conference last year.
“It was good to be able to hear their ideas and learn that people all across America are trying to prevent underage substance abuse and create a better environment for all,” she said in a press release.
“I would like to see and learn from what all of the other coalitions are doing to stop drug abuse,” said Rachel Valek, a 9th grade student and YSC member. “After we learn these new tactics, we will bring them back and implement them.”
SRSLY members are also planning a car wash for Saturday, May 18, from 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm at the Chelsea State Bank. All proceeds will go to support conference expenses for SRSLY volunteers.
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