Building Awareness & Saving Lives: Recent Trainings in Our Community

May 12, 2025

It’s been a busy and impactful spring for our coalition, thanks to the tireless work of our coordinator, Julie! From high school classrooms to regional leadership tables, Julie has been spreading knowledge and strengthening our community’s response to substance use.

On March 18th and May 12th, Julie led Opioid Overdose Prevention and Response trainings for students in the White Swan High School Health classes. These sessions equipped students with critical information on the risks of opioid use, how to recognize an overdose, and how to respond—potentially saving lives with tools like naloxone. The goal: empower the next generation with knowledge and skills to protect themselves and others.

Julie also took prevention efforts countywide, giving a presentation on our coalition’s programming to the Yakima County Behavioral Health and Substance Use Disorder Coalition on March 17th. Her presentation highlighted the work being done in White Swan to support youth and families, from school-based education to community partnerships.

These trainings and presentations are key steps in building a healthier, more resilient community.