Letter From the New Executive Director

Dear Prevention Providers,

It is my honor and privilege to join Prevention Network as the Executive Director on April 21st, 2025. I feel both gracious and humbled to continue working in this field of prevention. Since my time in public health at both the local and statewide level, I have engaged in a number of events and activities that have strengthened my viewpoint of how prevention works best upstream and in the communities we live, play and work in. I have developed partnerships with many of you as we embrace the new challenges we have faced and adversities we have overcome. Through it all, prevention has remained the backbone and foundation of what drives many of us to accomplish what we have.

In the proceeding pages, our staff at Prevention Network have worked tirelessly to plan, develop, and organize events and resource information that highlights the impact prevention brings to the communities we serve. I hope that you find these events to benefit your professional and personal well being. I also hope these resources will be valuable to you as you engage with the families, youth, and children that you serve throughout the state. The prevention work that you all do may not be seen, but it is genuinely impactful and energizes our Michigan residents to lead healthier lives.

To your continued health and well-being,

Rashmi Travis, MPH, CHES, CPS
Executive Director,
Prevention Network

2025 Michigan Higher Education Network Conference

June 12, 2025

8:00 am to 3:00pm

Kalamazoo College – Kalamazoo, MI

Registration Fee: $50/$30 for students

The theme for this year’s MIHEN Conference is Wellness and Health Promotion. Looking at recovery in higher education through a health and wellness lens allows professionals to better support students and meet the needs of those who are underrepresented. The conference will help professionals to better understand different aspects of health and wellness as it relates to mental health, substance misuse, peer-to-peer services, harm reduction, and much more. It will help to provide ways to understand what wellness and health promotion are, and how we can incorporate it into our college campuses. Contact Alex Wray at alexw@preventionnetwork.org with questions.

REGISTER NOW AND JOIN THE CONVERSATION! CLICK HERE!

Webinar/Virtual Training: Mission Money: Smart Strategies to Fund Substance Misuse Prevention

June 25 @ 11 AM to 12:30 PM EST through Great Lakes PTTC

At a time when grant funding opportunities are shifting, it is more important than ever for substance misuse prevention organizations and coalitions to diversify their fundraising strategies. In this webinar, we will explore the primary sources of nonprofit funding beyond federal grants, including individual donors, private foundations, corporate sponsorships, and special events. Participants will gain the skills needed to design a simple yet effective fundraising plan.

Register here!

 

CADCA’s 24th Annual Mid-Year Training Institute
July 20, 2025 – July 24, 2025
Join us for CADCA’s 24th Annual Mid-Year Training Institute, where professionals from across the substance use prevention field come together for four days of hands-on workshops, insights from experts, and networking opportunities! This event brings together industry leaders, master trainers, coalition members, and CADCA staff to share the latest cutting-edge strategies, best practices, and innovative solutions to common challenges.

View individual and group rates and to register

Share Your Excitement for #CADCAMidYear!

If you haven’t already check out the following featured resources! To see a list of all new resources added to the resource library, see this link.

This section highlights upcoming events such as webinars, conferences, and workshops, providing you with valuable opportunities to engage with experts, learn new strategies, and network with peers, ultimately fostering collaboration and advancing knowledge in the prevention field. Check out events coming up in the below:

 

  • Michigan Higher Education Network (MIHEN) – In-Person – June 12th, 2025 @ 8 AM-3 PM EST: The theme for this year’s MIHEN Conference is Wellness and Health Promotion. Looking at recovery in higher education through a health and wellness lens allows professionals to better support students and meet the needs of those who are underrepresented. The conference will help professionals to better understand different aspects of health and wellness as it relates to mental health, substance misuse, peer-to-peer services, harm reduction, and much more. Click here to register!
  • 2nd Annual Michigan Substance Use Disorder Prevention Coalitions Conference – June 24, 2025 @ 8:45 AM – 4:00 PM EST: This year’s conference centers around the theme CHAMPS—Collaboration, Health, Advocacy, Mobilization, Perception, and Sustainability. These six pillars are essential to building and maintaining effective coalitions. By exploring each element, the conference will equip professionals with deeper insight into what makes coalitions successful and how to better serve their communities. Click here to register!
  • Virtual SAPST: SPF Application for Prevention Success Training (must work in Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) July 14, 17, 21, 1n3 24 @ 10 AM to 4 PM EST Learn More!

See the full calendar of events here.

There’s a lot happening across our statewide programs – get involved today!

Visit our website to stay connected and learn more about all the ways you can get involved with Prevention Network.

The Prevention Network newsletter delivers timely and comprehensive state and national updates, covering the latest news, research findings, and best practices in the prevention field, ensuring you stay well-informed and equipped to address emerging challenges and opportunities in your prevention efforts. Check out some national and state updates below:

 

STATE:

Press Release: Michigan Employers invited to join Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI) have launched a statewide initiative to create healthier, more efficient workplaces through the Michigan Recovery Friendly Workplace (MI RFW) program. Through MI RFW, employers are encouraged to create supportive environments for employees in recovery from substance use disorder while enhancing overall workplace wellness. The MI RFW initiative is a statewide program funded by MDHHS through a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration State Opioid Response grant.

Organizations of all sizes and sectors are encouraged to take part. Visit RecoveryFriendlyMI.org to learn more or contact program staff at recoveryfriendlymi@mphi.org.

 

NATIONAL:

5.15.25: DEA Releases 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration today announced the release of the 2025 National Drug Threat Assessment (NDTA), DEA’s comprehensive review of the threats posed to the United States by deadly illicit drugs and the violent domestic and international drug trafficking organizations responsible for producing and trafficking the drugs poisoning our communities.

For more than a decade, DEA’s NDTA has been an integral resource for informing drug policies and laws. It remains a trusted resource for law enforcement agencies, policy makers, community leaders, and prevention and treatment specialists, while also serving as a critical tool to inform and educate the public.

 

Click here for the full report.

Thank you for reviewing Prevention Network’s newsletter! If you have any feedback regarding this newsletter or ideas for our next newsletter, please email us at info@preventionnetwork.org. Lastly, a special thanks to Prevention Network’s Board of Trustees for supporting our mission, vision, and goals.

Letter From the Interim Director

Dear Prevention Professionals,

There have been exciting Changes at Prevention Network in 2025!

The new year has brought a wave of exciting transitions and fresh energy to Prevention Network. Since January 2025, the agency has welcomed back a familiar face, added new leadership to the board, and started a strategic transition to shape the future of the organization.

Angel Lucia and Effie Alofoje-Carr have recently departed Prevention Network, and while we are sad to see them go, we are excited for them as they begin new chapters in their careers. We wish them nothing but the best in their future endeavors. In the midst of this transition, we are thrilled to welcome back Kristine Norton, who has rejoined Prevention Network as our new Communication Specialist and Program Assistant. After a 3.5-year hiatus, Kristine returns with her signature creativity, innovation, and exceptional ability to meet demanding deadlines.

Additionally, we’re pleased to welcome a new member to our Board of Directors:

Karen Bergbower, Therapist/Program Director, Karen Bergbower & Associates

Her experience and insight will help guide Prevention Network through a time of growth and transition.

In leadership changes, Mike Tobias has stepped into the role of Interim Executive Director. With the recent staffing changes, we also want to recognize and sincerely thank our incredible team for stepping up to take on additional responsibilities outside their usual roles. Their flexibility, commitment, and dedication to the mission of Prevention Network have made all the difference during this time of transition. Currently, the agency is beginning the process of searching for a new Executive Director. This marks the start of a new chapter for Prevention Network— one that will bring fresh vision, new strategies, and continued impact across Michigan communities.

We look forward to this next phase with gratitude for our team, partners, and supporters who make our mission possible every day.

News from Parenting Awareness Michigan (PAM)

Follow-up from Parenting Awareness Month Webinar Series:

 

Celebrating Parenting Awareness Month 

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Parenting Awareness Month this March by attending PAM’s webinar series!

 

Webinar Highlights: 

● 1 webinar offered each week throughout March

● Engaging conversations on parent and family involvement

● Powerful stories from parents of LGBTQ+ youth

● Focused discussions on engaging fathers and male caregivers

● Insightful information on kinship and foster care—including key differences, available resources, and support options

 

By the Numbers: 

● 📌 200+ registered attendees

● ⭐ Average helpfulness rating: 4.72 out of 5

● ✅ 82% of attendees plan to use what they learned within the next 3 months

● 🙌 100% said they would attend another PAM webinar

We’re grateful for your continued support in empowering Michigan parents and caregivers!

 

🌟 PAM Conference Updates – Get Involved! 🌟

The 33rd Annual Parenting Awareness Michigan (PAM) Conference is happening on Friday, November 3, 2025, at Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City! As we continue planning, there are several ways to participate:

 

✅ Workshop Proposals – Now Open! 

We are now accepting workshop proposals for this year’s conference! If you have valuable insights, strategies, or resources to share with parents and professionals, we encourage you to submit a proposal. The deadline to apply is May 30, 2025.

Request for Workshop Proposals Link

 

✅ Exhibitor & Sponsorship Opportunities 

Showcase your organization and connect with attendees by becoming an exhibitor or sponsor.

Exhibitor Form Link 

Sponsorship Form Link 

 

🔗 Find more details on the conference website, including information on keynote speaker Robin Shear, hotel accommodations, and FAQs!

PAM Conference Website Link 

We look forward to seeing you in Traverse City this fall! 🎉

 

Resource Page: 

PAM Parent Resource Page – You’ll find information, tips, and tools to help navigate the journey of parenting. New resources were recently added!

Do you have a presentation idea ready to go?

 

Our organization has upcoming events with open Request for Proposals (RFPs), and we’re looking for passionate presenters! This is a great opportunity to gain presentation experience and make an impact. Check out the event lineup and see where your expertise fits!

 

33rd Annual Parenting Awareness Michigan Conference

Date of Event: November 3, 2025

Theme: Parenting Lasts A Lifetime

Proposals Due May 30, 2025

 

 

This section highlights upcoming events such as webinars, conferences, and workshops, providing you with valuable opportunities to engage with experts, learn new strategies, and network with peers, ultimately fostering collaboration and advancing knowledge in the prevention field. Check out events coming up in the next 3 months below:

 

See the full calendar of events here.

  • Alcohol Policy Issues Meeting – April 14th, 2025 @ 10 AM-11 AM EST: Every month on the Second Monday 10 a.m. People across Michigan meet to discuss alcohol policy and local changes that impact the access and availability with the goal of preventing misuse and reducing the negative impacts on public health. Click here to join! 
  • Alcohol Policies Issues Meeting – May 12, 2025 @ 10 AM-11 AM EST: Every month on the Second Monday 10 a.m. People across Michigan meet to discuss alcohol policy and local changes that impact the access and availability with the goal of preventing misuse and reducing the negative impacts on public health. Click here to join! 
  • 12th Annual Shoalition Showcase – May 28, 2025 @ 8:30 AM – 4:14 PM EST at Kirtland Community College in Gaylord, MI: NEW DATE! The Shoalition has been rescheduled to May 28th, 2025. The venue, agenda, and event times will remain the same. The Shoalition Showcase provides relevant information on issues, programs, and resources related to underage drinking. The event includes a keynote presentation, panel discussion with Commissioners from the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, hearing from coalition leaders about what they are doing to reduce underage drinking and other alcohol problems, and opportunities to earn continuing education credits. Click here for more details and to register!
  • MIHEN Webinar – May 29, 2025 @ 11:30 AM – 1 PM EST: Overwhelmed thinking about how all the different laws, policies, etc. impact your requirements under the Drug Free Schools and Campuses Act (DFSCA)? Join us for a discussion of HOW the drain can be eased and learn what resources exist to aid you in your ongoing journey toward compliance. Register here!

If you haven’t already check out the following featured resources! To see a list of all new resources added to the resource library, see this link.

 

 

April is Alcohol Awareness Month

 

Every April, we celebrate Alcohol Awareness Month. This is a time to raise awareness and understanding of alcohol use and misuse. It offers communities a chance to gain more understanding of how individuals struggle with alcohol use and offers resources and support.

SAMHSA is offering a free social media toolkit that you and your community can use to find helpful resources on alcohol use & misuse prevention and treatment & recovery support services.

Click here to access the SAMHSA toolkit.

Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month

 

This May, take action, raise your voice, and help change the conversation around mental health! Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. Now, more than ever, NAMI needs you to be part of this movement. Whether by sharing your story, spreading awareness, or advocating for change, every action helps break the stigma and build a more supportive world for all.

 

The theme for this month is “In Every Story, There’s Strength”. Mental health journeys are unique, but the strength found within them is universal. “In Every Story, There’s Strength,” highlights the resilience and diverse experiences that shape mental health journeys within our community. NAMI’s campaign celebrates the power of storytelling to fuel connection, understanding, and hope for those navigating their own mental health path. Each story shared is a testament to the possibility of recovery and the strength that lies within us all.

 

Click here to view this resource.

 

The Prevention Network newsletter delivers timely and comprehensive state and national updates, covering the latest news, research findings, and best practices in the prevention field, ensuring you stay well-informed and equipped to address emerging challenges and opportunities in your prevention efforts. Check out some national and state updates below:

Updated Commercial Tobacco-Free K-12 School Model Policy

 

In 2024, 2.25 million U.S. students reported using commercial tobacco products, including 1.63 million who currently use e-cigarettes. To promote a commercial tobacco-free environment in primary and secondary schools, the Public Health Law Center developed a comprehensive model policy. This policy includes holistic enforcement strategies that prioritize alternatives to suspension and expulsion for student violations.

 

Click here to read the policy.

Press Release: Marihuana Administrative Rules Public Hearing Date Set for May 6, 2025

The Cannabis Regulatory Agency has scheduled a public hearing for the purpose of receiving public comment on the proposed rule set 2023-25 LR (Marihuana Rules). The hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 6, beginning at 9:00AM at Cannabis Regulatory Agency building at 2407 N Grand River Ave, Lansing, MI 48906. Attendees will enter through the south entrance.

Comments may be made at the public hearing in person, virtually via Zoom, or sent via email. All of the information pertaining to the administrative rules – including the draft rule language, a guide to the proposed revisions, and more – can be found at this webpage.

Thank you for reviewing Prevention Network’s newsletter! If you have any feedback regarding this newsletter or ideas for our next newsletter, please email us at info@preventionnetwork.org. Lastly, a special thanks to Prevention Network’s Board of Trustees for supporting our mission, vision, and goals.