Submitted by Katherine Bryant Ingman

Prevention Coordinator, Lopez Island Prevention Coalition

The Lopez Island Prevention Coalition has revamped and renewed its mission for the 2019-2020 school year. Led by a tremendous small group of dedicated middle and high school students, the Lopez Island Prevention Coalition seeks to form a greater community of allies and supporters who can work together to prevent early drug and alcohol use while simultaneously encouraging healthy behavior by all in this community.

The mission of the Lopez Island Prevention Coalition is to reduce substance abuse among youth and to help facilitate a community culture that supports healthy choices and responsible behavior by establishing and supporting collaboration, communication and cooperation among community members, organizations and agencies.

Katherine Bryant Ingman recently took over the role of program coordinator as Georgeana Cook moved away from the island after years and years of dedicated service to the island and coalition. Ingman brings energy, insight and enthusiasm to an organization that is eager to serve the community and its youth in a robust way.

One recent initiative the Coalition spearheaded was to implement a community Youth space where all kids are welcome to feel known, safe and accepted. Currently the Youth Center is open three days a week after school (Tuesday-wThursday) and is located adjacent to the Barber shop. This space is also available for other youth-serving organizations to use and run programs. We hope this space is able to serve youth in all their needs.

The first Coalition gathering is at 4:30 p.m., Oct. 1, in the library meeting room. All are welcome and Ingman is available for questions at katherine.ingman@unitedgeneral.org.