As we begin a new year, we are pleased to share the January 2026 edition of Let’s Collaborate.

We look forward to continuing our work alongside community partners by responding to local prevention priorities and supporting efforts that center youth voice and community needs.

We invite collaborators to connect with us and explore opportunities to partner on training, events, and initiatives. Together, we remain committed to advancing prevention and strengthening community wellness across our region.

We’re excited to share that both the Youth Wellness Journal 2.0 and the Intersectional Health Booklet have been completed and are now available. 

These publications highlight youth creativity and lived experiences, alongside valuable contributions from our community partners, and reflect a shared commitment to prevention, wellness and youth engagement.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all youth, organizations, and collaborators who contributed to these projects and helped amplify youth voices across our region.

Digital and printed copies of both resources are available in English and Spanish. If you are interested in ordering copies or learning more, please contact Anna Ramirez at aramirez@esd123.org. 

Start Talking Now Conversation Cards

Two new versions of the Start Talking Now conversation cards for caregivers are now available to support meaningful conversations with teens.

There is a printable two-pager: This is a downloadable, easy-to-print two-page version. It is available in English and Spanish. Click here to download the STN Toolkit. The password is StartTheConversation.

There is also an onlilne and mobile version: This new digital version is accessible on phones, laptops and tablets and includes additional questions, tips and facts to support effective caregiver-teen conversations. The online conversation cards are available in five languages - English, Spanish, Chinese, Russian and Vietnamese.

Flyers are also available in the STN Toolkit for use in newsletters and at community events. Caregivers can simply scan the QR code on the flyer to access the digital cards and start the conversation. 

We recently celebrated youth creativity and community connection at the unveiling of the Prosser Thrive Mural, a project that reflects youth voice, resilience and prevention-focused messaging. The unveiling event created space for community members to gather, reflect and recognize the pwer of youth-led art in promoting wellness and belonging.

As part of this effort, we also introduced a postcard featuring the mural and a positive message, which is now available for youth and community members. It can be picked up at Prosser Thrive.

Key Connections

We are proud to support Prosser Thrive in their efforts to provide a safe, welcoming space for local youth through the Thrive Youth Cafe. Here's how you can help make a difference for yount people in our community - support Prosser youth at Thrive Youth Cafe!

The cafe is a place were middle and high school students can connect, receive mentorship, get homework support, and engage in positive, substance-free activities. As demand grows, the cafe relies on community partners to help keep this vital space open and thriving. Your support - whether through donations, volunteering or in-kind contributions - directly impacts young people in Prosser.

Your support make a real difference in the lives of Prosser's youth. Contact Brittany Aguilar at brittany.aguilar@prosserthrive.org or (360) 391-2534 to learn more or contribute.

Find out more by visiting Prosser Thrive's website, Instagram account or Facebook account.

Southeastern Regional Youth Summit

We encourage our partners to share this with staff who work directly with youth. The Youth Summit, set to take place on March 20, is a free, one-day event for ages 11-18 focused on drug prevention, mental health, leadership and networking. It's a fantastic opportunity for young people to learn, connect and grow.

Staff can scan the QR or click here to sign up for updates on registration, speakers and activities. Thank you for helping us get the work out.

Adult Mental Health First Aid Training in English

ESD 123 will be hosting an Adult Mental Health First Aid Training in English from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25, in Pasco. 

The course covers:

• Common signs and symptoms of mental health challenges
• Common signs and symptoms of substance use challenges
• How to interact with a person in crisis
• How to connect a person with help
• Expanded content on trauma, substance use and self-care

Click here to register today for this free training.

JANUARY

• Substance Use Disorder Treatment Month

FEBRUARY

• National Drug Fact Week

MARCH

• National Durg and Alcohol Facts Week 
• Take Down Tobacco/Kick Butts Day

APRIL

• Take Down Tobacco - National Day of Action
• National Drug Takeback Day

Help Us Share These Opportunities! We’d love your help in spreading the word about:

✍️ Health & Wellness Booklet submissions
🎨 Thrive Youth Mural Project
📅 Awareness campaigns and social media assets
🧠 Upcoming prevention trainings
📢 Partner projects you’d like us to highlight!

Together, we’re uplifting youth voices and building healthier, more connected communities.