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

 

Enjoy Spring Celebrations Alcohol & Substance Free

 

Spring is a season of celebration - the weather turns warmer and happy times abound with prom, outdoor barbecues, and graduation parties to look forward to! Unfortunately, sometimes these happy occasions also involve underage drinking. In fact, research shows that the months of April, May, and June can be the most dangerous time for teens.

Teens may mistakenly believe that drinking is not as dangerous as other drug use, but statistics prove overwise. Scientific research indicates that the teen brain is still developing into the mid-20s - researchers have found that the introduction of alcohol and other substances, particularly in large quantities consumed during binge drinking, may impair brain development and have long term consequences. It is more important than ever that adults be firm, clear, and consistent when talking with teens about alcohol.

Drinking is not only harmful for individuals, it also has a negative impact on society causing vehicle accidents, DUI's, injuries, violence, sexual assault, and property destruction. Next time you hear someone trying to justify drinking, remember how deadly alcohol can be.

We wish you happy and joyful spring celebrations - celebrating safely. But, if you find that you or someone you love has a drinking problem, help is available. Learning about options to address alcohol problems can be an important first step. Contact your medical provider, health insurance, local health department, or employee assistance program.

To find research-based information on drinking and its impact on health, visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) at:

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics-a-to-z

 

Teen Vaping Video: The Dangers of Smart Vapes & What Parents Need to Know

 

Teen Vaping is evolving - today's "smart vapes" look like typical tech gadgets, not what they really are, which is nicotine delivery devices.

Truth is that these products contain nicotine, the highly addictive substance that can harm the developing teen brain. With millions of middle and high school students reporting use of e-cigarettes, parents need to stay vigilant and arm themselves with clear and practical information so that they can educate their growing children about the potential harms.

The Partnership to End Addiction has put together a 4-minute video, which outlines the dangers of vaping for teens. It explains how high-tech e-cigarettes are designed to appeal directly to young users. Celebrities and social media influencers are hired to promote flashy vape brands, while devices even feature built-in games like Tetris to try to attract teens to use these products that contain nicotine.

In this short, informative video, parents will learn how to talk to their teen about the real risks of teen vaping and how "smart vapes" brands target youth.

As Parents of Today's Youth,
We Need to Stay Informed & Connected!

Visit 

https://drugfree.org

40 Years–40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #27: A Message from Sheriff Grady Judd

 

 

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #27: A Message from Sheriff Grady Judd

For 40 years, InnerAct Alliance has been blessed with unwavering support from the Polk County Sheriff's Office. From our early years to now, law enforcement partnership has been essential to our prevention mission. We are especially grateful for Sheriff Grady Judd's continuous advocacy for substance abuse prevention and his commitment to keeping our community safe.

Sheriff Judd has a special message for InnerAct Alliance as we celebrate our 40th Anniversary!

20 Years Ago:  New Sheriff + 20th Anniversary

Today:  Still Our Sheriff + 40th Anniversary

Always: Committed to Prevention & Community Safety

Sheriff Judd's dedication to youth safety, prevention education, and community partnerships has made an immeasurable impact on Polk County.

Thank you, Sheriff Judd, for two decades of steadfast support!

Please Support Prevention!

https://www.inneractalliance.org/donations.html

Text IAA to 26989

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #SheriffGradyJudd #PolkCountySheriff #20YearsOfPartnership #CommunityHeroes #PreventionWorks #ThankYouSheriff #PolkCounty #LawEnforcementPartnership

Join Us Monday, May 4 for the Own The Upside Prevention Summit to Stay Informed!

 

Join InnerAct Alliance and the StandUP Polk Coalition at the Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit next Monday, May 4, 2026, from 8:00am to 4:00pm, at the W.H. Stuart Center | UF/IFAS Extension Office, 1710 US Highway 17 South in Bartow, to learn about important issues facing our community.

This is an exceptional opportunity for teachers, school resource officers, administrators, counselors, social workers, prevention specialists, and concerned citizens to come together and share up-to-date information with a realistic view of current youth culture, emerging drug trends, and other topical issues. 

Admission is $28.52 and includes a light breakfast and lunch. 

Register Today!

Call the InnerAct Alliance Office
(863) 802-0777

or use the QR Code Below

Own The Upside was initiated by the Drug Free Coalition partnership of Hardee, Highlands, and Polk counties in Central Florida and founded on the Positive Community Norms Theory to support youth through proactive prevention programs and empower young people to make positive healthy choices. Please call (863) 802-0777 for more information.

Positive Vibes to Start the Week

 

Happy Monday! Did you know that smiling can instantly raise your vibe - even if you don't mean it? 😊 

Positive vibes are like a magical potion that can change your whole perspective and that of others. Try it - smile or laugh then notice how quickly your vibration rises.

Let's all start the week by surrounding ourselves with good vibes and positivity...nothing can bring us down! 

Tomorrow is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

One more quick reminder that tomorrow - Saturday, April 25 - is the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, offering an opportunity for citizens to safely dispose of unneeded pet or human medication. Bring your meds in a clear plastic bag to the participating Drive-Thru Drop-Off locations in Lakeland and Polk County listed below from 10AM to 2PM. 💊 

Why Does This Matter? - Studies show that medications stored in home medicine cabinets is highly susceptible to abuse. Discarding medication by flushing or throwing it in the trash also creates potential health hazards. 

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the public about the potential for abuse. 

What Can We Bring? - Clean out your home medicine cabinet for any unneeded Human and Pet medications including over-the-counter medications, medications in liquid and solid forms, vaping pens, and e-cigarette devices (with batteries removed). 

Together we can keep our community safe
and prevent substance abuse before it starts!

40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #26: Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit on May 4, 2026

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #26: Annual Own The Upside Prevention Summit on May 4, 2026

For the past 4 decades, InnerAct Alliance has been bringing together prevention professionals to share knowledge and strategies.

Join Us for the Annual Own the Upside Prevention Summit

Monday, May 4
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

W.H. Stuart Center | UF/IFAS Extension Office
1710 U.S. Highway 17 South in Bartow

Who Should Attend

Teachers, school resource officers, administrators, counselors, social workers, prevention specialists, and concerned citizens are invited to come together and share up-to-date information with a realistic view of:

*Current youth culture

*Emerging drug trends

*Social media & connection to risky behaviors
*Prevention strategies that work

Register Now!

Admission - $28.52
includes light breakfast & lunch

BONUS: Double Your Prevention Training!

On the following day, Tuesday, May 5, the Hanley Foundation is offering a FREE in-person Ethics in Prevention training from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, also at the W.H. Stuart Center, suitable for entry-level and experienced prevention practitioners. Seats are limited - Pre-Register at: hanley.info/ethics05

About Own The Upside

Own The Upside was initiated by the Drug Free Coalition partnership of Hardee, Highlands, and Polk counties and founded on the Positive Community Norms Theory. Data collected annually by the Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey (FYSAS) reports that most youth do not engage in risky behaviors. Own The Upside believes in supporting youth through proactive prevention programs to reduce, access, identify risky behaviors, change community attitudes towards substance use, and empower young people to make positive choices.

Join us in celebrating the positives and
empowering our community!

More info

Call Angie Ellison at the IAA Office
(863) 802-0777

angie.ellison@inneractalliance.org

 #40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #Prevention Summit #OwnTheUpside #StandUPPolk #ProfessionalDevelopment #PreventionEducation #PolkCounty #YouthCulture #PreventionWorks

40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #25: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25

 

40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #25: National Prescription Drug Take Back Day - April 25, 2026

For 40 years, InnerAct Alliance has been committed to preventing harm and promoting health in our community. One crucial way we do this is by partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and local law enforcement for the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10am to 2pm.

StandUP Polk and local law enforcement agencies are proud to join the Drug Enforcement Administration and its national and community partners for the 29th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday.

Why This Matters

Medicine stored in home cabinets is highly susceptible to abuse. Discarding medication by flushing or throwing it in the trash also creates potential health and safety hazards. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the public about the potential for abuse.

What You Can Bring

*Human and Pet prescription medications
*Over-the-Counter medications
*Medications in liquid and solid form
*Vaping pens & e-cigarette devices (remove batteries)
*Please place medication in a clear, air-tight plastic bag

Drop-Off Locations on Saturday, April 25

*Bartow Police Dept. - 450 N. Broadway Ave.
*Davenport Police Dept. - 16 W. Bay St.
*Haines City Police Dept. - 35400 Highway 27
*Lakeland Police Dept. - 219 N. Massachusetts Ave.
*Lake Alfred Police Dept. - 190 N. Seminole Ave.
*Lake Hamilton Police Dept. - 100 Smith Ave.
*Lake Wales Police Dept. - 133 E. Tillman Ave.
*Winter Haven Police Dept. - 125 N. Lake Silver Dr. NW

Year-Round Drop Sites

Permanents drop sites (solid medications only) available at police department locations in: Auburndale, Haines City, Lake Alfred, Lake Hamilton, Lakeland, and Winter Haven.

Our Impact

Previous medication collections held in Polk County since 2010 have resulted in well over 29,000 pounds of recovered pharmaceuticals safely disposed of vis incineration!

Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet & Turn in Unwanted Medication on April 25

Together, we can keep our community safe and prevent substance abuse before it begins!

For More Info, please contact

Angie Ellison @ IAA
(863) 802-0777

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #DrugTakeBackDay #StandUPPolk #DEA #SafeDisposal #PolkCounty #PreventionWorks #April25 #MedicationDisposal

Today is Earth Day – Our Power, Our Planet

 

Earth Day 2026 takes place today - Wednesday, April 22 - the annual celebration to raise awareness and advocate for change on issues that impact our home on Planet Earth! 

This year's theme, "Our Planet, Our Power," is meant to encourage individuals, organizations, and governments to embrace renewable energy resources to create a sustainable future. Earth Day is a popular time for communities to gather together to clean up litter, plant trees, or simply reflect on the beauty of nature. We appreciate our home planet Mother Earth!

InnerAct Alliance and our coalition partners, StandUP Polk and UthMpact, support Earth Day with local efforts to keep our community safe. This Saturday, April 25, we join the DEA and 8 Polk County law enforcement agencies to host National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, from 10:00am to 2:00pm, at participating law enforcement agencies listed below. Citizens may turn in unused or expired human or pet medications for safe disposal via supervised incineration. This helps keep medication from being misused or winding up in lakes and streams harming the wildlife and water supply.

Unwanted medication may also be taken to one of the Polk County permanent drop sites funded by GiveWell Community Foundation year-round at police department locations in:

Auburndale (weekdays 8am-5pm)

Haines City (weekdays 8am-5pm)

Lake Alfred (24hrs/7days)

Lake Hamilton (weekdays 8am-5pm)

Lakeland (24hrs/7days)

Winter Haven (weekdays 8am-5pm)

40 Years - 40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #24: InnerAct Alliance Appreciates Our Volunteers!

 

 

40 Years-40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance| Story #24: InnerAct Appreciates Our Volunteers!

InnerAct Alliance hosts one of the largest Red Ribbon Campaigns in the state of Florida, highlighted by the Annual Red Ribbon Run. The event brings together 10,000 participants, volunteers, and spectators every October at Lake Mirror in Lakeland.

Volunteers Needed for 2026 Red Ribbon Run

Saturday, October 31, 2026
Lake Mirror Promenade, Lakeland

Success of the Red Ribbon Run depends on over 300 volunteers

* High School students can earn community service hours
* College students, businesses, individuals and organizations welcome
* FREE breakfast, t-shirt, and snacks provided

Volunteer Sign Up: https://www.inneractalliance.org/volunteering.html

Share Your Talents!

Showcase your unique talents in music, dance, or performance as part of the World Tour celebration during the Red Ribbon Run. Contact: Angie Ellison at (863) 802-0777.

Year-Round Volunteer Opportunities Available!

InnerAct Alliance welcomes of all ages to help with programs that impact youth, parents, families, and those in need with a substance abuse prevention and anti-bullying message. 

Call (863) 802-0777 https://www.inneractalliance.org/volunteering.html

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #VolunteerAppreciation
#RedRibbonRun #Volunteer Opportunities #LakeMirror #PolkCounty

40 Years–40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #23: Evolution of Our Agency’s Prevention Education Mission

 

40 Years - 40 Stories | Story #23: Evolution of Our Agency's Prevention Education Mission

Our nonprofit agency began 40 years ago when teacher Kaye McConnell witnessed two students fall ill after taking an accidental overdose on the way to school. She saw a critical need to educate students and parents about substance use risks. Along with concerned citizens, she established PRIDE of Lakeland in the 1980s.

The Evolution

1980s - PRIDE of LAKELAND
Literally passed the hat to collect funds for community awareness and events like the Red Ribbon Campaign and Just Say No Marches in Lakeland.

1990s - Drug Prevention Resource Center
Achieved official Prevention Licensure. State funding supported prevention classes, puppet shows, the Red Ribbon Run, and Fifth Grade Rallies.

2000s - Growth & Expansion
Prevention education grew from 1 teacher in 2 schools to expanding throughout Polk County with Red Ribbon Kickoff Events and law enforcement partnerships.

2009/2010 - InnerAct Alliance is Born
Rebranding brought tremendous expansion opportunities: 10 teachers in 69 schools, StandUP Polk adult and UthMpact youth coalitions formed, Anti-Bullying programs added, and Level II Prevention licensure achieved.

Today
*50,000+ students reached annually
*100 youth in UthMpact Leadership each year
*200+ partners in StandUP Polk coalition
*150,000 citizens reached through social norms campaigns

Please Donate to Support Prevention

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

text IAA to 26989

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #PRIDEofLakeland #DrugPreventionResourceCenter #40YearsStrong #PolkCounty #PreventionEducation

40 Years–40 Stories of InnerAct Alliance | Story #22: Educating & Empowering Polk County’s Youth

 

40 Years-40 Stories | Story #22: Educating & Empowering Polk County's Youth

Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse occur in all age groups and economic backgrounds. It is an insidious presence in our neighborhoods and schools. Multiple prevention education programs and services have come together under the InnerAct Alliance umbrella to prevent youth, families, neighborhoods, and friends from becoming the next alcohol or drug-related statistic. 

There are 4 Core Strategies
 to Help Youth Win:

Awareness Raising
Science-Based Prevention in Schools
Community-Based Prevention
Coalition Building

Here's a snapshot of our agency's collaborative efforts:

InnerAct Alliance

Formerly the Drug Prevention Resource Center and PRIDE of Lakeland, InnerAct Alliance has worked diligently for the past 4 decades to reduce the abuse and underage use of harmful substances through: Community Awareness and Involvement; Prevention Education; Economic Support; and Leadership Development. The agency serves as the fiscal agent for the StandUP Polk (adult-based) and UthMpact (youth-based) Coalitions for a Drug-Free Polk.

StandUP Polk

StandUP Polk is a group of concerned parents, citizens, law enforcement, faith-based organizations, media, healthcare, businesses, youth-serving agencies, schools, and environmentalists working as the Coalition for a Drug-Free Polk to prevent harm and promote health through education, public awareness, and advocacy using proven evidence-based strategies.

UthMpact

UthMpact is a coalition for teens, by teens, educating and empowering teens to make healthy decisions and take action against alcohol, tobacco, and drug use. Goals include changing community & peer stereotypes about teen drug use through positive community involvement such as Project Prom/Project Homecoming. Students learn valuable advocacy and leadership skills, develop professional relationships, and have created campaigns on anti-tobacco, bullying, marijuana, prescription drugs, distracted driving, and underage drinking prevention. Teens have even created their own podcast to share proactive messaging!

Together we can educate young people
 to learn the facts, think, and act responsibly!

Connect with us

 https://www.inneractalliance.org

Follow us

 
IAA Blog

https://inneractblogtownhallmeeting.blogspot.com

Facebook

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

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

#40Years40Stories #InnerActAlliance #StandUPPolk #UthMpact #YouthEmpowerment #PreventionWorks #CoalitionBuilding #Polk County #DrugFreeCommunity