40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #30: Celebrating UthMpact Class XV Graduates – Madeline Aranda & Trace Braun

 

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #30 Celebrating UthMpact Class XV Graduates - Madeline Aranda & Trace Braun

UthMpact hosted its graduation ceremony for high school student leaders who successfully completed the 2025-2026 UthMpact Leadership Class XV program on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the Magnolia Building in Lakeland. 

This Leadership program is spearheaded by InnerAct Alliance & its coalition partners StandUP Polk and UthMpact, along with business and community partners, to assist teens in development crucial leadership skills. Nearly 550 students representing every high school in the county have been enriched by being a member of the UthMpact Leadership Program since its inception.

Today, we celebrate two outstanding graduates:

🎓 Madeline Aranda
University of Central Florida
Majoring in Advertising

🎓 Trace Braun
University of Miami
Majoring in Marketing

About UthMpact Leadership - UthMpact is a coalition of high school teen leaders who are committed to educating themselves and their peers about key substance abuse prevention messages. Participants have an opportunity to take part in a training retreat and travel throughout the community on monthly Leadership Days to meet with community and business leaders and experience the inner workings of local volunteerism, business, government, healthcare, education, and law enforcement. 

The group's most prominent projects are Project Prom & Prom HOCO, providing formal wear and accessories to high school students and educating about risky behaviors during prom, graduation, and homecoming, as well as the UthMpact Facts social norms program sharing the positives in Polk Youth culture - that most teens are choosing NOT to use substances.

Congratulations, Madeline and Trace! We are so proud of your accomplishments and can't wait to see the incredible things you will achieve in the future!

Follow UthMpact on Social Media
https://www.facebook.com/UthMpactPolk?  

Contact for Information: 
Samantha Barwig
(863) 802-0777

Support Youth Programs
https://www.inneractalliance.org/donations.html

Text IAA to 26989

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #UthMpact #ClassOf2026 #GraduatingSeniors #FutureLeaders #ProudMoment #PolkCounty #YouthLeadership

Orphines: New Class of Emerging Deadly Opioids

 

Most of us have heard about fentanyl, but now there are new synthetic opioids surfacing in street drugs across the U.S. that make fentanyl look weak. The New York Times reports that this fast-growing group, known as orphine analogues or simply "orphines," are already taking fentanyl's place in the illegal drug supply. 

Researchers say orphines can be 10x more powerful than fentanyl and what's worse is that they don't show up in standard toxicology screens or on fentanyl testing strips.

What Are Orphines? - this experimental opioid class of drugs was first developed in the 1960s. Scientists were looking for powerful pain-relieving and anesthesia drugs for medical use. When it became clear that this drug was very dangerous, it was taken off the market. Now, it has popped up again in illicit drug supplies in at least 14 states across the nation. Some of the more common orphines being identified include: cychlorphine, brorphine, spirochlorphine, and chlorphine.

Why Are Orphines Spreading Again? - it is speculated that orphines have emerged again because drug traffickers have been searching for new products to sell to avoid strict drug crackdowns. In July 2025, the Chinese government placed nitazine analogues, another group of powerful lab-made opioids, under tighter control. After that, nitazines showed up less often while orphines increased in supply. This constant change makes the drug supply even more dangerous and unpredictable.

What Should We Be Looking For? - the most common orphine version - cychlorphine - is turning up in fake pills and powders often mixed into other drugs without the users' knowledge. Mixing drugs, including alcohol, greatly increases the risk of overdose. Note: Cychlorphine may be 50-200 times stronger than heroin. Naloxone can still work, but multiple doses may be needed.

Why Are Orphines So Dangerous? - orphines are very strong. A small amount can stop breathing. Many people often don't know they are taking them because they appear in fake pills and mixed into other drugs. Because these drugs are new, testing is often behind what is already out there on the street in unknown strengths.

Steps To Take Right Now - stay informed because the drug supply and landscape can change fast. Talk early and often to your kids - focus on safety, not judgment. Support mental health and encourage making smart choices to avoid drug use. Remind kids that the substances out there are stronger, newer, and more unpredictable than ever before.

The Partnership to End Addiction is a solid resource for parents and individuals to stay connected. 

👉https://drugfree.org/article/orphines-new-opioids-stronger-than-fentanyl-what-parents-should-know/

👉Link to New York Times article: 

https://www.nytimes.com/2026/05/04/health/what-are-orphines.html

40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #29: An Invitation to Lead and Invest in the Future

 

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #29: An Invitation to Lead and Invest in the Future

As InnerAct Alliance celebrates its 40th Anniversary, this milestone provides a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the organization's impact and to invite others to be part of its future.

A Message from Ryan Rogers, IAA Board President: I have had the privilege of serving InnerAct Alliance in several leadership roles over the years, including Treasurer, Co-President, and currently as President. Each role has reinforced my belief in both the mission and the people who bring it to life every day. MIDFLORIDA Credit Union has a long-standing history of supporting InnerAct Alliance, and I am proud to be part of that legacy. As SVPII/Regional Marketing Manager at MIDFLORIDA, we greatly value the work that InnerAct Alliance does in the community and schools. Our partnership reflects a shared commitment to investing in students and equipping them with the skills, confidence, and decision-making tools they need to succeed beyond the classroom.

The InnerAct Alliance Difference - one of the most rewarding aspects of my involvement has been engaging directly with students. From hosting Business Day visits and observing students run the Project Prom Store, to sharing meals during the annual Business Etiquette Dinner, I have seen firsthand how InnerAct Alliance prepares students for real-world environments. These experiences demonstrate the profound impact that consistent mentorship, leadership development, and hands-on learning can have on young people.

The strength of InnerAct Alliance is a direct result of the dedicated teachers, staff, board members, and community leaders who have given their time and talents over the past 40 years.

Join Us in Shaping the Future - as we look ahead to the next 40 years, InnerAct Alliance continues to need engaged leaders and committed supporters. If you are an individual, business owner, or business partner looking for a board opportunity that is active, meaning, and impactful, I encourage you to consider InnerAct Alliance.

This is not a passive board role - it is a chance to truly make a difference by donating your time, sharing your talent, and investing your treasure in an organization that changes lives.

Interested in Getting Involved?

If you want to learn more about board service, corporate partnerships, or donor involvement, please reach out to Ryan Rogers, Board President, or Angie Ellison, Executive Director, at (863) 802-0777. We would welcome the opportunity to share more about InnerAct Alliance and how you can be part of shaping its future!

You Can Also Help by Donating!

https://www.inneractalliance.org/#donate

Text IAA to 26989

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #BoardLeadership #CommunityInvolvement #MIDFLORIA #MakeADifference #TimeTalentTreasure #PolkCounty #JoinOurBoard #LeadershipOpportunity

Thank You for Attending The Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit!

 

Special thanks to community members who attended InnerAct Alliance and StandUP Polk's Annual Own the Upside Prevention Summit this week on Monday, May 4 at the W.H. Stuart Center in Bartow to learn more about current substance use trends and stay informed on important issues facing our community from our prominent guest speakers and presenters.

We appreciate your continued support!

New Video: Be Aware of Teen Substance Use Trends in 2026

 

Even with the good news that fewer teens are using substances overall, the risks and concerns continue to mount. Today's Substance Landscape is constantly changing with new vaping products, high-potency marijuana, kratom, and psychedelic drugs being introduced to the market each day. Staying informed is one of the most powerful things we can do! 💪

In an effort to help parents and caregivers know what to look for and how to talk to their teens about the current substance use and behavior trends, it's important to share videos like this one from the Partnership to End Addiction.

In about 13 minutes' time, the video provides an informative overview of some new, accessible products out there being marketed to youth as 'wellness enhancers' - available right over the counter in gas station and convenience stores. You will learn about what's out there now luring young people - drugs that range from alcohol to vaping and nicotine patches, THC to opioids...along with new addiction risks that come from participating in online gaming and sports betting.

Protect yourself and those you love by staying informed - it's absolutely worth 13 minutes of your time to stop & watch! ⏰  

👉 Visit The Partnership to End Addiction for More Resources and Support

https://drugfree.org

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7x8jZNklzE

 

How to Begin Talking with Young Children About Alcohol

 

Alcohol is the most commonly used and misused drug among youth. Some report taking their first drink at age 10 or younger. 

For this reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents begin talking to children about alcohol at age 9 to establish a foundation for healthy habits and influence ideas about alcohol early instead of trying to change impressions later. It's best to connect with kids often through natural conversations that will evolve as your child gets older.

Research continues to prove that kids who have conversations with their parents about the dangers of alcohol and drug use are 50% less likely to use alcohol and drugs than those who don't. That's reason enough to keep the lines of communication flowing with your kids from an early age on.

Prevention experts at the Partnership to End Addiction share answers to frequent questions from parents and impart tips on how to talk to children about alcohol and other drugs from every age from pre-school to young adult.

Sample Q & A:

Q: Isn't it better for parents to teach children how to drink 'responsibly' by allowing them to drink at home under supervision?

A: Research shows that drinking at home with parental approval is associated with higher-risk drinking, heavy alcohol use, and alcohol problems later in life. Allowing kids to drink in the home sends mixed messages about the safety of underage alcohol use.

Q: Is it hypocritical of me to tell my kids not to drink when they know that I drank at their age?

A: As a parent, you want to do all you can to protect your child. Many of us didn't wear sunscreen growing up, we now know that it significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer. Same is true of alcohol - now we know more than ever about protecting our kids from the effects of alcohol. 

Learn more by visiting The Partnership to End Addiction:

https://drugfree.org/article/prevention-tips-for-every-age/

40 Years–40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #28: UthMpact Students, Leaders & Brothers – Cooper & Max Deeds!

 

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #28: UthMpact Students, Leaders & Brothers - Cooper & Max Deeds!

UthMpact Leadership yields many inspiring stories of successful students. Over the past 15 years, we have been fortunate to have many siblings participate and pass down the UthMpact traditions to younger family members because the know the value of participation.

This year's UthMpact Leadership Class XI was no different! Our youth coalition enjoyed getting to know and collaborate with brothers Cooper and Max Deeds. We were impressed with their personal stories about their unique experiences - one focused on risky behaviors and empowerment to influence change, while his brother spoke about learning about the community and discovering how many intentional folks are in it to serve.

Max Deeds

"UthMpact to me represents the pinnacle of hope. In a society that normalizes risky behavior, UthMpact instills the idea that the choice not to do drugs or alcohol is one that will forever benefit youth spiritually and mentally. By installing the value of choice and hope in our youth early, community-wide change becomes a guarantee, as our future leaders of tomorrow are educated and grown to combat risky behavior that plagues their area. UthMpact becomes a true representation of hope - hope in our community, hope in our youth, hope against the forces of evil and hope for tomorrow."

Cooper Deeds

"To me, UthMpact is a fun way to learn about the community we live in. I looked forward to every membership day where we went to different parts of our county to learn about what happens in each building and how people help people. Each day brings new insight on how our community functions and taught us the gears on how our city operates in a fun learning way. UthMpact has taught me so much on what a city needs to be successful and I am so glad I had this amazing experience. I also learned never to do drugs or alcohol, which is a huge thing to know as those are the leading death causes in teens. Overall, UthMpact to me is an amazing educational experience that everyone should be a part of."

Support Our Teens in the UthMpact Leadership Program

$40 = sponsors a UthMpact student's personality test

$40/month =covers meals for monthly Leadership Days
$400 = covers bus transportation for Leadership Days

Donate

https://www.inneractalliance.org/#donate

Text IAA to 26989

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #UthMpact
#YouthLeadership #BrothersBond #FutureLeaders
#HopeforFuture #PolkCounty #StudentVoices