To help optimize these services, the Youth Development Coalition chose an evidence-based program (keepin’ it REAL®) to administer. The program’s narrative-based curriculum is intended for middle school students and those transitioning into 9th grade. It coaches youth on healthy communication, refusal skills, conflict resolution, social awareness, and social ecosystem identification. Teen HYPE staff are trained in the program and offer it as an in-school curriculum. As of today, 208 youths have completed the program with Teen HYPE.
When recreational marijuana use became legal in Michigan about halfway through the curriculum component of this grant, intrigue ensued surrounding the approach to this federally-funded project. Teen HYPE does not promote drug use. However, with the new laws we must address the ‘White Rhino’ in the room. To better understand Detroit community stakeholders’ perspectives on marijuana use, we turn to our youth to hear their voices.
GET INVOLVED
On 4/20/2019, catch the first video clip of the PSA, join the conversation online and to use the hashtag #SlowYourRoll. Be sure to follow Teen HYPE on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube @teenHYPEdetroit.
If you’re interested in joining Teen HYPE’s Youth Development Coalition, please contact Dee Smith, Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships, at dorothyhk@teenhype.org.
If you or a young person you know needs free, confidential HIV testing, please call Teen HYPE at 313-948-8427.
If your school is interested in Teen HYPE’s in-school health programming, please call 313-831-8336.
For behavioral health resources, call SAMHSA’s hotline: 800-662-HELP or visit https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment. You may also contact Teen HYPE at 313-831-8336 for a referral to one of our youth-friendly partners that provide these supportive resources in your community.