This will be the first full meeting of the Youth Council for the 2018-19 school year. Youth Council Members will work on their Taking Down Tobacco presentations as well as learn about and select a policy priority for the year.
Free Zoom Webinar and/or In-person training at Queens Conference Center (QCC)
A wave of opioid addiction is affecting communities in both Hawai’i and on the US continent. Use of opioids such as heroin, morphine, and prescription pain relievers has swelled to levels of dependency in many individuals, and being cut off by well-meaning providers causes many to seek elsewhere. Several factors contribute to the breadth and complexity of this urgent problem: severe chronic pain, greater use of prescriptions, aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies, among others. Services, solutions, and care management exist here in Hawai’i to reduce harm and improve quality of life for all.
Learning Objectives:
1. Discuss current trends in opioid use, dependence, and abuse.
2. Review the psychosocial and pharmacologic treatment options for clients with substance abuse/dependence.
3. Summarize what services are available for opioid dependent clients in Hawai’i and how to assist in the coordination of care.
Trainer is Heather Lusk, Executive Director of Life Foundation and Chow Project.
Free Zoom Webinar and/or In-person training at Queens Conference Center (QCC)
A strong early learning system is a wise public investment, returning $3-$8 in long-term benefits for every dollar spent. High quality childcare and preschool programs enhance school readiness, reduce achievement gaps between privileged and disadvantaged children, and can even have lasting effects on learning, behavior, and health in adulthood. Reliable, affordable childcare is also a necessity for working parents. Results of a recent statewide assessment of availability, cost, and quality identified bright spots as well as critical needs in our early learning landscape. Come and learn about hallmarks of quality programs, which of our communities are childcare deserts, and resources for families.
Learning Objectives:
1. Review the ways in which high-quality care early learning programs promote child and family wellbeing.
2. Discuss the current state of Hawai’i’s early learning system for children age 0.5.
3. Share stories about innovative programs in Hawai’i and resources to help families locate and pay for preschool and childcare.
Trainer is Barbara DeBaryshe, Interim Director and Specialist at the UH Center on the Family
A follow up to our September meeting; students will participate in a team-building activity and work on island-based strategy in support of the policy priority selected in September.