Youth-Led Efforts to Reduce Substance Use in Washington County

Healthy Acadia’s SAMHSA Partnerships for Success (PFS) initiative is works to reduce substance use and promote healthy choices for young people throughout Washington County. PFS supports evidence-based prevention strategies that strengthen protective factors, reduce risk factors, and empower young people to make positive decisions for their health and future.

As part of this effort, PFS is proud to support youth leaders like Noah, who are taking initiative in their communities. Youth engagement is a vital part of substance use prevention, and student voices are central to shaping safe and healthy school environments and communities.

Below is a message from Noah, a 16-year-old Bucksport resident, passionate student advocate, and active participant in Healthy Acadia’s Down East Teen Leadership Camp (DETLC) and the Maine Youth Action Network’s (MYAN) Youth Leadership Conference., who successfully sought support through our PFS mini-grant program for a project that reflects these goals:

Dear Healthy Acadia,

My name is Noah O'Donnell and l am writing today in hopes of securing sponsorship for my mud racing truck and mud run races. l think mud runs and racing are good for keeping kids off drugs, it keeps kids outside in the clean air, and is a lot of fun. lt also helps kids make new friends. If you sponsor me, l will display your logo on the side of my truck so that l can make people know your service. l look forward to hearing from you soon.

Thanks for your time and consideration,

Noah O'Donnell

Healthy Acadia approved a sponsorship utilizing funds from our SAMHSA PFS grant, awarding Noah $100 to cover entry and race fees for his mud truck. This support helped him participate in the opening event of the Pine Brook Mudders series on May 11th. Noah competed in four races and had a great time—showcasing not only his vehicle, but also the positive momentum that youth-led prevention efforts can create.

Noah’s initiative reflects the broader goals of the PFS program: empowering youth, building confidence, and encouraging healthy choices through community connection and support.

Noah’s request is a perfect example of how youth-driven initiatives can make a meaningful impact. By contributing to this effort, you're supporting not only one student’s vision, but also the broader goals of prevention and wellness in our region.

To learn more about Healthy Acadia’s Partnerships for Success initiative, visit: https://healthyacadia.org/sb-deps