Substance-Free Events
It is so important for youth and families to have opportunities to build peer and family relationships in a healthy, substance-free environment. These events not only support prevention and model positive behaviors, but also promote recovery, demonstrate healthy coping skills, and show that life without substances can be fun and fulfilling. By providing these experiences, the coalition works to shift the culture and environment surrounding substance use for youth and families.
Watch out for updates on social media or join our membership listserv and join us for one of our monthly substance-free events! These gatherings give families and youth a chance to connect in a fun, safe, and healthy environment. Some examples of past events include National Night Out and the Batesville Community Trunk-or-Treat. We hope to see you there!
Evidence-Based Programming
The Coalition provides evidence-based prevention programming in schools and after-school settings to create meaningful opportunities for youth to engage in healthy conversations about mental health, coping skills, refusal skills, and the dangers and negative impacts of substance use. These programs are designed to support informed decision-making and promote overall well-being. Please see below for the current programs we are offering.
Real Media
Real Media is an evidence-based prevention program offered to 8th-grade students at Batesville Middle School and St. Louis Catholic School. The program helps students build media literacy skills, think critically about messages they see online and in advertising, and better understand how media can influence attitudes, choices, and behaviors related to substances.
You and Me Vape Free
You and Me, Together Vape Free is an evidence-based tobacco and vaping prevention program offered to students in 6th grade at Batesville Middle School and St. Louis Catholic School, as well as to freshmen at Batesville High School and Oldenburg Academy. The program highlights the impact of nicotine on the developing brain, discusses healthy alternatives to vaping, and reviews refusal skills to support students in making informed, healthy choices.
Lion’s Quest
The coalition supports after-school programming at the YMCA and offers a six-week program at Batesville Intermediate School that incorporates lessons from Lions Quest. Lions Quest is a research-based social and emotional learning program that helps students build healthy coping skills, positive relationship skills, decision-making abilities, and teamwork. Together, these programs focus on strengthening social and emotional development, encouraging responsible choices, and supporting students as they grow, connect, and thrive.
Red Ribbon Week
The Coalition funds Red Ribbon Week in all six of our schools. Red Ribbon Week is a national campaign that promotes substance-free living and healthy choices through fun, engaging, and educational activities. We are grateful for our school partnerships, which allow students to learn about the dangers of substance use while celebrating positive, healthy lifestyles.
Rx Disposal
The Coalition for a Drug-Free Batesville partners with the Batesville Police Department and Margaret Mary Health to help the community safely dispose of unused and expired prescription medications. In addition to hosting quarterly take-back events throughout the community, 24/7 permanent drop-off locations are available at the following locations:
- Margaret Mary Health
- Batesville Police Station
- Franklin County Sheriff’s Department
- Ripley County Health Department