On March 3, 2025, I traveled to Denver, Colorado, to present a youth drug prevention workshop at the Hawthorne Community Center. Before heading to the event, I stopped for coffee at my hotel. The quiet moment gave me time to prepare for the session and reflect on the importance of community-based prevention. Many young people rely on programs like this center for support, connection, and guidance.
During the workshop, we focused on how peer influence shapes daily decisions. Teens often make choices quickly, especially when friends are watching. As a result, substances like vapes or alcohol may seem harmless in the moment. We discussed how the adolescent brain responds to these pressures and why pausing, even briefly, can help students choose a safer path. Students also explored how nicotine and other substances affect brain development.
To support the lesson, I shared national research on youth substance-use trends from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The information helps families, educators, and youth professionals better understand the challenges teens face:
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/substance-use/index.htm
The participants asked thoughtful questions about pressure from friends, social media challenges, and how to help a peer who may be struggling. Their engagement showed a strong desire to learn and support one another. Because the Hawthorne Community Center serves a diverse group of students, the conversation reflected a wide range of experiences and perspectives.
A fun fact about Denver: the city has more than 300 days of sunshine each year, making it one of the sunniest cities in the United States. This bright environment supports many outdoor youth programs, which the center frequently uses to build connection and resilience.
To bring this evidence-based and engaging youth drug prevention workshop to your community, please visit: https://raylozano.com/contact/.