Week 1 of InnerAct Alliance’s Red Ribbon Challenges Begin Today!

 

October is Red Ribbon Month! Families can support prevention of substance abuse by participating in the Annual Red Ribbon Campaign events presented by InnerAct Alliance and our Red Ribbon title sponsor Publix Super Markets. Red Ribbon Challenges begin online Today and continue through October with a different health-oriented challenge featured each week on InnerActAlliance.org for children to complete the fun activities with family and friends.

RR Challenge Week 1 sponsor Publix Super Markets encourages Family Dinner & Activities. Studies show that families who eat dinner together build stronger relationships and foster better communication to help kids make more informed decisions. Fun activities this week include a jumping jacks challenge, researching a family recipe, shopping/cooking together, and more!  

Kids can register FREE at InnerActAlliance.org to participate in the Weekly Challenges and post completed challenge activities on the InnerAct Alliance Facebook page with the hashtag #RedRibbonChallenges. Find more details at InnerActAlliance.org and register to run in the Red Ribbon Run on Saturday morning, October 26 at Lake Mirror in Lakeland!

  Register to Participate

 www.inneractalliance.org

http://www.inneractalliance.org/red-ribbon-run-challenges.html

Post Red Ribbon Weekly Challenges on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance

Hashtag #RedRibbonChallenges

Stay Safe in the Storm Friends & Neighbors

 

We hope everyone stays safe as Hurricane Helene passes through the Sunshine State today. Although we will not have major impact of the storm here in the Polk County area, we are on the east side of the storm so there is an increased threat of tornados. Stay off the roads as rain and wind are forecast and some areas may be impacted by flooding.

After the storm passes through, be sure to replenish your family’s Basic Emergency Supply Kit to include bottled water, non-perishable food, prescription medication, a battery-powered radio to receive weather and emergency alerts, flashlights with extra batteries, pen and paper. 

A basic first-aid kit is also a good idea with band-aids, first aid cream, aspirin, etc. Other helpful items are soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, garbage bags, a can opener, eating utensils, and basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer, wrench, or pliers. Families with babies should have extra formula, bottles, diapers, and wipes on hand. For pets, be sure to keep a supply of food, snacks, and extra water to drink. 

Stay safe neighbors 🌀🌀🌀. Locally, stay tuned to weather and news reports on PGTV (Polk-County.TV), online Polk-County.net, or on radio stations WPCV 97.5 FM and WONN 1230 AM.

 Helpful Storm Prep Tips

https://www.ready.gov/kit 

Lakeland Electric Hurricane Guide

https://lakelandgov.net/Hurricane

Countdown is on for the Annual Red Ribbon Run on Saturday, October 26!

 

InnerAct Alliance and our title sponsor Publix Super Markets invite you to Run the World in the 2024 Red Ribbon Run on Saturday, October 26, 2024 to prevent harm and promote health!

The Red Ribbon Run offers a day of family fun featuring a Kids Fun Run, sponsored by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union, around beautiful Lake Mirror in Lakeland. Students in grades K-8 can run in timed grade level heats and win trophies awarded for first, second, and third place in each gender and grade. Parents may run/walk with their children in untimed heats in the Family Fun Run ($5 registration fee). Pre-Registration for students in grades K-8 is FREE on the Red Ribbon Run tab on InnerActAlliance.org before October 26 ($5 fee on event day). Kids should pre-register by October 11 to be guaranteed a free Run t-shirt. 

Check-in for the Kids Fun Run on October 26 begins at 6:30 a.m. at Lake Mirror Auditorium. The Family Fun Run takes place at 8:30 a.m. and grade heats begin at 8:45 a.m. (times are approximate).

This popular community event also includes the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour vendor area featuring healthy snacks, fitness activities, and entertainment. Individuals and performance groups are invited to showcase their unique talents in music, dance, and performance as part of the World Tour celebration of cultures and traditions - contact Angie Ellison, executive director, at 802-0777 for more details and information.

Weekly Red Ribbon Challenges with themes of nutrition, fitness, and anti-bullying begin next week on September 30 and continue in a virtual format on InnerActAlliance.org for kids to complete and post their challenge results on the InnerAct Alliance Facebook page.

Please join us for the 2024 Red Ribbon Activities to spread awareness about substance abuse and celebrate healthy choices!

Pre-Register Today for the Red Ribbon Run 

https://www.inneractalliance.org

Like the InnerAct Alliance Facebook Page

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance?fref=pb&hc_location=profile_browser

We All Have the Ability to Prevent Suicide

 

We all have a role to play in suicide prevention - part of that is to learn and share the warning signs of youth suicide, especially during Suicide Prevention Month in September.

If someone is showing any of the warning signs, encourage them to contact a trusted adult, school counselor, mental health professional, or reach out to the Suicide Prevention #988 Lifeline. Simply listening and providing support can make a significant difference in the life of a child, adolescent, or adult.

Take action if you notice any of the following signs in family or friends:

* talking about or making plans for suicide
* expressing hopelessness about the future
* displaying severe/overwhelming emotional pain or distress
* showing worrisome changes in behavior
* withdrawal from or changing social connections
* changes in sleep
* anger or hostility that seems out of character
* recent increased agitation or irritability

Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about  suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.

Reach out to call or text 988 or chat online. Learn more at https://988lifeline.org/learn/

Honoring Hispanic Heritage Month

 

Hispanic Heritage Month, observed September 15 to October 15, was established to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The celebration begins on September 15 - a date significant for being the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico also celebrates its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18.

The observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan extended it to a 30-day period establishing Hispanic Heritage Month to celebrate the rich cultural diversity, history, and accomplishments of individuals from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America whose influence has enriched our country in countless ways. Today, we continue to recognize and celebrate the many vibrant contributions of the Hispanic community!  

Tonight: Eat Dinner with Your Children on Family Day!

 

We hope your family will gather together for dinner tonight to enjoy Family Day - A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children as part of the national effort to promote family dinners as an effective way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors.

Talk with your children and share each other's day. After dinner, why not register as a family to participate in InnerAct Alliance's 2024 Red Ribbon Run on Saturday morning, October 26 at Lake Mirror in Lakeland. Students in grades K-8 may pre-register for the Kids Fun Run for FREE before 10/26/24 (registration fee $5 on event day). Parents can run/walk with their children in the Family Fun Run for a $5 registration fee. Kids must pre-register prior to 10/11 to be guaranteed a free Run t-shirt.

  Visit the Red Ribbon Tab on

 https://www.inneractalliance.org

Welcome Fall Y'all!

 

This weekend marks the arrival of Fall and the autumn equinox in the Northern Hemisphere.🍂🍁 It may be hot and humid in the Sunshine State, but we can still embrace the cozy vibes of the fall season with hope of slightly cooler temps one of these days!😎

A Fall mindset can do wonders for mental and emotional health! Because the fall season is symbolic of change, it brings a sense of comfort and ease. Fall colors can uplift overall mood, along with a more pleasant climate and fresh air, to energize you. 

Embrace the arrival of fall by decorating your home with pumpkins🧡and colorful leaves🍂. Spend more time outdoors enjoying a walk in cooler evenings as the sun sets. Treat yourself to a crisp apple or something pumpkin spice to drink. 

Wishing you your best Autumn!😊

See Lakeland Mom's Fall Event Guide for fun things
to do locally with kids in Lakeland and Polk County

https://lakelandmom.com/fall-halloween-activities/?

Plan to Eat Dinner with Your Family on Monday 9/23

 

InnerAct Alliance and coalition partners, StandUP Polk and UthMpact, encourage your family to participate in Family Day - A Day to Eat Dinner with Your Children on Monday, September 23, 2024. Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners as an effective way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors.

Research by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University consistently finds the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they may be to smoke, drink, or use illegal substances. Spend time this coming Monday, September 23 with your most important social network – your own family – connecting at the dinner table. Learn more about this initiative, sign the family day pledge, and receive tips to talk with your children, by visiting InformedFamilies.org.

After dinner, register as a family for the 2024 Red Ribbon Run on Saturday, October 26 at Lake Mirror in Lakeland. Students in grades K-8 may pre-register for the Kids Fun Run for FREE before 10/26/24 (registration $5 on event day). Parents can run/walk with their children in the Family Fun Run for a $5 fee. Kids must pre-register prior to 10/11 to be guaranteed a free Run t-shirt.

Race Day check-in for the Kids Fun Run starts at 6:30am at Lake Mirror Auditorium. The Family Fun Run takes place at 8:30am; grade heats begin at 8:45am (times approximate). Weekly Red Ribbon Challenges with themes of nutrition, fitness, and anti-bullying begin on September 30 and continued through October on InnerAct Alliance.org. Kids can post their completed challenges on the InnerAct Alliance Facebook page. 

"The Annual Red Ribbon Run encourages healthy family activities to reduce the likelihood of substance abuse, bullying, and other risky behaviors," said InnerAct Alliance's Executive Director Angie Ellison. "Please plan to eat dinner as a family on September 23 and join us on Saturday morning, October 26, by sponsoring, running, or volunteering at the Red Ribbon Run!"

🎀 Red Ribbon Run Registration 🎀

https://www.inneractalliance.org/

Post Completed Red Ribbon Challenges on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance?fref=pb&hc_location=profile_browser

Life Lessons to Learn from Butterflies

 

We can all benefit from this life lesson from the butterflies! Taking time to rest during life's storms is not a sign of weakness; it's a way to protect your strength for when the skies clear. Cherish this journey called life and have a beautiful Wednesday!🦋

Results from the 2024 Annual National Youth Tobacco Survey

 

E-cigarettes are the most used tobacco product among U.S. youth. Recently there's been some good news from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stating that youth vaping levels have fallen to the lowest in a decade.

The National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS) is an annual school-based, self-administered survey of middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) students in the U.S. In this survey of nearly 30,000 students conducted this year from January 22-May 22, researchers found that the proportion of middle and high school students who reported current e-cigarette use within the past 30 days decreased from 2.13 million students in 2023 to 1.63 million students in 2024. The total number of youth e-cigarette users is now about one-third of its peak when numbers totaled more than 5 million in 2019.

Director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, Brian King, attributed the overall decline in part to legal steps the FDA has taken in partnership with the Justice Department to curb use. Since 2023, the FDA has issued more than 1,000 warning letters and 240 civil penalties to retailers and others in the supply chain. 

King stated, “This data is a good reminder that we are making progress in terms of continued declines of the leading tobacco products among kids, but we can’t rest on our laurels as there is still more to do to further reduce youth e-cigarette use.”

Key vaping statistics and data from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey show:

Youth Vaping – the number of middle and high school students who vape dropped to its lowest level in a decade. 5.9% of students reported vaping in 2024; down from 7.7% in 2023.

Device Types – the most common types of devices used by students who vape are disposables (55.6%), followed by prefilled or refillable pods or cartridges (15.6%), and tanks or mod systems (7.0%).

Frequency of Use – 26.3% of students who vape do so daily – 38.4% say they vape at least 20 of the last 30 days.

Nicotine Pouches – the wide availability and growing sales of nicotine pouches has raised concerns about potential use of these products among youth. A majority of those who use nicotine pouches use flavored products with fruit being the most popular flavor (62.8%), followed by candy (33.3%), and mint (25.1%). 

Youth use of tobacco products in any form, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, is unsafe. We must continue to encourage strict tobacco control regulations and enforcement to prevent and reduce e-cig and nicotine patch use and prioritize the health and safety of today’s youth.

Review the CDC Morbidity & Mortality Weekly Report 

 https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7335a3.htm?s_cid=mm7335a3_w

IAA Joined Heartland for Children for Reunification Celebration

 

This weekend, InnerAct Alliance was happy to join Heartland for Children for their annual Reunification Celebration for families who have reunified over the past year. 🙌

Representatives from Heartland for Children, including CEO Kim Daugherty, Shawna Butler, Monique Beau-Myers, Tyiesha Genet Stewart, and others welcomed everyone to Peterson Park to honor the hard work, commitment, and dedication of the families, foster caregivers, and child welfare professionals. InnerAct Alliance's prevention specialists, Beverly and Charlie, provided an overview of the prevention programs and services provided by IAA and encouraged families to participate in the 2024 Red Ribbon Run community event next month on Saturday, October 26. It was heartwarming to see the smiling faces of the parents, children, and everyone who gathered to uplift and support families!👪

Heartland for Children is a community-based care lead agency providing comprehensive child welfare services that include protective services, foster care adoptions, independent living, prevention, family preservation, family support, and other related services.

In the words of former foster teen, Josh Shipp,
"Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story"

https://www.heartlandforchildren.org/

Register Today for the Red Ribbon Run October 26

 

Register Today for the 2024 Red Ribbon Run!

https://www.athlinks.com/event/inneract-alliance-red-ribbon-run-155599

https://www.inneractalliance.org/red-ribbon-run.html

Shop with Project HOCO Tomorrow – Saturday, September 14

 

Get your shopping on tomorrow at Project HOCO's 1st Student Shopping Day - Saturday, September 14 - at the Project Prom/HOCO Store in Lakeland Square Mall, across from Rack Room Shoes. Our UthMpact teen leaders will be on hand from 11am to 4pm to assist you in finding cool clothing to dress your best this Homecoming season!

Students with a Polk School ID can sign a Project HOCO Pledge promising to make healthy and safe choices during Homecoming festivities and receive their dresses and suits for FREE!

If you miss your opportunity to shop tomorrow, check us out on the remaining Project HOCO Shopping Days on Saturdays September 28, October 5, or October 12!

Signs to Look for Declining Mental Health

 

In 2022, researchers found that 13 million people suffered with suicidal thoughts. In fact, suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10 to 34 year-olds.

There are things you can do. Talking about suicide may feel uncomfortable, but it could lead to receiving the help that is needed. 

Stay in tune with yourself. After all, no one knows you better than you know yourself. If you notice signs your mental health may be declining, take time to rest, recharge, and reach out for compassionate care and free support.

Call or text 988 | Chat 988lifeline.org

YOU ARE WORTH IT!

Always Remember 9-11-2001

 

September 11 is a day of remembrance of those who lost their lives and all who gave their lives in the terrorist attacks on 9/11/2001. Although time goes by, we will always recall where we were during one of the worst days in American history as tragedy ensued at the Twin Towers in NY City, the Pentagon, and  aboard United Airlines Flight 93 over Pennsylvania. 

Out of this unspeakable tragedy came stories of strength, courage, fortitude, and some of the bravest acts of the heroes of 9/11 - today we remember and honor the innocent lives lost, the heroes who stepped up to defend our country, the families who suffer painful loss of loved ones, the volunteers who gave selflessly, and those who sacrificed everything. 

God Bless America

Today - September 10 - is World Suicide Prevention Day

 

Wear yellow today in honor of World Suicide Prevention Day, which is observed on September 10 each year to raise awareness, focus efforts on directing treatment to those who need it, and remember those affected by suicide.💛 

Our actions, no matter how big or small, may provide hope to those who are struggling. We can play a key role in supporting those experiencing a suicidal crisis or those bereaved by suicide. Check in with a friend or loved one - have a conversation, share personal stories, and advocate for mental health resources and support. 

 💛Know That You Matter!💛

Know the Facts About Alcohol & the Teen Brain

 

Alcohol affects the adolescent brain differently than the adult brain.🧠 Extensive studies show the human brain is not fully developed until about age 25. Teens who begin drinking before age 15 are 5x more likely to develop alcohol use disorder than if they wait until after age 21.

The brain undergoes massive changes during the teen years - mainly in the areas that affect decision making and impulse control. This makes the teen years a period of great promise, but also of potential risk - especially for addiction. Preventing and delaying substance use during this time is important to long-term health.

Highlights from a comprehensive report titled Alcohol & The Adult Brain: Immediate Impairment, Long-Term Consequences presented to the North Carolina Governor's Substance Abuse and Underage Drinking Prevention and Treatment Task Force show that:

* Emotional areas of the human brain mature before the frontal cortex. This is evident in the thrill-seeking, risky decision-making, and impulsiveness that define the adolescent years.

* Due to the immaturity of the frontal cortex, adolescent brains respond more to the promise of rewards & threats than adults brains - weighing immediate rewards as more valuable than future rewards.

* "Brain Imbalance" is why young people pay more attention to their peers and why they are more likely to do something risky without considering the consequences.

* Alcohol slows down brain activity. Negative effects of alcohol last far longer in a teen's brain than an adult's - up to 2 weeks longer.

* Teen alcohol use prior to full brain development can keep the good judgment and impulse-control part of the brain from properly developing.

* Alcohol can also damage the memory and learning parts of the brain.

https://drugfree.org/article/teen-brain-development/

Our Community’s Red Ribbon Campaign

 

Red Ribbons🎀symbolize our commitment to fighting substance abuse and honor the memory of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena. When Camarena was tragically killed in 1985, his sacrifice sparked a powerful movement. The red ribbon became a symbol of our collective strength and dedication to his mission. Wear a red ribbon to stand against substance abuse, bullying, and violence, and support safety and hope.

Make plans for your family to attend the 2024 Red Ribbon Run, presented by title sponsor Publix Supermarkets, on Saturday morning, October 26, at beautiful Lake Mirror in Lakeland. 

Registration is FREE for K-8 students for the Kids Fun Run, sponsored by MIDFLORIDA Credit Union, before October 26 ($5 fee on event day). A Family Fun Run is offered for parents and adults to run with their children ($5 registration). Enjoy healthy snacks, fitness activities, and entertainment celebrating cultures from around the world in the Florida Dairy Farmers World Tour vendor area. 

Register today at InnerActAlliance.org (click on the Red Ribbon Run tab) to participate in the Kids Fun Run, Family Fun Run, and sign up to complete Weekly Challenges that begin online on September 30.

Business Partnership Opportunities Available!

The Red Ribbon Run presents a great opportunity

for local businesses to support prevention of 

substance abuse by sponsoring a race heat

 and promoting products & services in a booth

in the World Tour vendor area.

Share Your Talents & Create Cultural Displays!

Individuals and groups are invited to showcase
 their unique talents in music , dance, and performance 

as part of the World Tour celebration of 

culture and traditions during the Red Ribbon Run. 

Contact Angie Ellison at (863) 802-0777 for details

Red Ribbon Run Registration
 &
Weekly Challenges on Event Website

https://www.inneractalliance.org/

https://www.facebook.com/InnerActAlliance/

This Sunday, September 8 is 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Day

 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is launching the first-ever national 988 Day this weekend as a day of action to be held every year on September 8 to raise awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

This year's theme is "No Judgment. Just Help" and everyone is encouraged to celebrate this day by talking to family and friends about the 988 LIFELINE, post on social media using #988Day, or do something to care for your own mental health.

988 Day is part of September's Suicide Prevention Month - a time to continue learning about suicide prevention, remember those lost to suicide, and acknowledge the many individuals, families, and communities impacted by suicide. 

With rising levels of anxiety, depression, emotional distress, or overdose deaths, it is critical that people have somewhere to turn when they are in crisis. In the U.S., someone dies by suicide every 11 minutes. Suicide affects every race, gender, ethnic group, and orientation - so it's important to know and spread the word that suicide is preventable and that help is available. 

The 988 Lifeline provides a direct connection to free support and resources for anyone in crisis. Calling or texting 988 or chatting 988lifeline.org will connect a person in crisis to compassionate care and support for any mental health or substance use-related distress. About 98% of those who call, chat, or text the 988 Lifeline get the crisis support they need and do not require additional services at that moment.

SAMHSA works with federal, state, local, and community partnerships in a united vision where everyone has: Someone to talk to. Someone to respond. And a Safe Place for Help.

https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/suicide

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988

IAA’s Humane Education Program for Children

 

InnerAct Alliance's Humane Education Program visits schools and takes part in community events to present pre-school children and elementary-aged students with special lessons that incorporate quality age-appropriate literature, critical thinking techniques, and fun activities to reinforce healthy ways to interact with peers and promote animal welfare.

Our humane educator, Michelle B., leads instruction that teaches young children about the 3 words of friendship and how to always be kind - gentle - patient with animals and humans. Kids have opportunities to use problem-solving skills to assemble puzzles and trace letters spelling out kind - gentle - patient as a take home activity to practice and remember the friendship words.

A recent Kindness class at Bonnet Springs included a special lesson about Tucker the Turtle🐢where children learned how to act like Tucker when they feel upset by Stopping - Tucking - Taking Deep Breaths - and Coming Out to find a calm solution.

Sharing Smiling Faces of
Children Learning Friendship Skills

UthMpact’s 2024 Project HOCO Shopping Days

 

UthMpact is proud to continue the Project HOCO effort providing formal wear to teens in need. Students with a Polk County School ID can sign a Project HOCO Pledge promising to make healthy and safe choices during Homecoming festivities and receive their dresses and suits for FREE! Nearly 6,000 prom and homecoming ensembles have been provided at no cost to young women and men in Polk County since 2013.

2024 Student Shopping Days for Project HOCO are scheduled for Saturdays September 14 & 28 and October 5 & 12, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the Project Prom/Project HOCO store location in the Lakeland Square Mall, 3800 US Hwy 98N, in Lakeland (across from Rack Room Shoes).

Community members may support this effort by donating gently used dresses, shoes, men's suits, ties, and accessories. Especially needed are ladies plus size dresses (size 18+) and smaller size dresses (size 0-4), along with men's wear in smaller sizes. Donations may be dropped off at the Project Prom Store on shopping days or at the InnerAct Alliance office at 621 S. Florida Ave. in Lakeland (8:30 am - 4:30 pm, weekdays). A receipt will be provided for tax purposes.

UthMpact's goal is to promote a safe and fun Homecoming. For info, please visit our social media and website pages:

 

https://www.facebook.com/ProjectPromofPolk/

www.uthmpact.org

www.projectprompolk.com

September is Suicide Prevention Month

 

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month - a time to raise awareness, shift public perception, share vital information, and hope to those affected by suicide. The goal is to ensure that individuals, friends, and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention and seek help. 

Suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition - 46% of those who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. It is especially dangerous among youth - suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14 and the 3rd leading cause of death among those ages 15-24 in the U.S. 

YOU can play an important role in the prevention effort by familiarizing yourself with the warning signs, taking them seriously, and knowing how to respond to them. Warning signs of suicide include: 

* Talking about suicide

* Seeking access to guns, pills, etc.

* Having a preoccupation with death

* Sudden mood swings or personality changes

* Hopelessness

* Self-loathing or hatred

* Neglecting appearance

* Changes in eating and sleeping patterns

* Saying goodbye

* Withdrawal

* Self-destructive behavior 

Suicide prevention resources are available including the FREE 988 SUICIDE and CRISIS LINE which provides 24-hour confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call or text 9-8-8 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat.

NAMI - National Alliance on Mental Illness

https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/common-with-mental-illness/risk-of-suicide/