STYCtalks Empowering Young Voices

Reflection: Prevention begins with how we see people, not by what they need, but by what they give.  I recently visited Aldi, where you need to insert a quarter to use a shopping cart. It was my first time, so I paused to read the sign: (paraphrasing) “Insert a quarter. Return the cart. Get your quarter back.” Straightforward enough. As I turned to go back to my car for a quarter, I passed a man sitting quietly near the carts. He held a sign, clearly asking for help. I noticed him, but I didn’t see him. I was focused on the types of snacks I would buy for the STYC advocates. 😋🍪🍕🍏 Then I heard, “Ma’am, here’s a quarter.”  The man extended his hand.  🔘 I was stunned and for a moment, I didn't know how to receive it.  A person most folks would label “in need” was the one meeting my need, without hesitation. He didn’t know me. He owed me nothing. But he offered what he had without conditions. I accepted with "thank you so much." That quarter felt heavier ...

A Reflection on the Journey We’ve Shared  At the encouragement of the Board of Directors, I’ve taken a moment to reflect on the work we’ve done together as the Shawnee Transformation Youth Coalition (STYC). This isn’t something I would usually write—celebrating your own work feels a bit like throwing yourself a party—but I recognize the importance of pausing to honor our journey, not just for myself, but for the community that has fueled this mission. I joined the coalition in 2016 under sudden and difficult circumstances, following the departure of the previous director. At the time, our future was uncertain. But I was grounded by my roots in public health and equity, having served with the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness and the country’s first Center for Health Equity. I believed then—and still believe now—that when youth and communities are supported, they thrive. Since then, STYC has grown from a local prevention initiative to a recognized force i...

K entucky is known around the world for three things: bourbon, tobacco, and horse racing . (Okay, we know tobacco may have technically packed its bags and moved on—but nicotine addiction still lingers. In 2021, 21.9% of Kentucky high school students reported using electronic vapor products within the past 30 days, exceeding the national average of 18.0%.) These industries are more than economic powerhouses—they’re woven into the fabric of our identity, shaping traditions, tourism, and even how we celebrate. But behind the glamor and history lies a deeper reality: these same industries are also tied to substance use, addiction, and long-term health issues that impact families across our Commonwealth. If you’re concerned about the rise in youth vaping, check out these youth vaping prevention resources from the CDC .  That’s why Alcohol Awareness Month , recognized every April, matters—especially here. Started in 1987 by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD)...