A coalition focused on youth substance use prevention and mental health promotion made a significant impact at the Sunset City Council meeting on August 19, 2025. The group highlighted its commitment to creating thriving communities for youth through data-driven initiatives and community support.

During the meeting, representatives shared insights from the SHARPS student survey, which collects data from students in grades six through twelve every two years. This data guides their efforts to address community needs, ensuring that programs are tailored to the specific challenges faced by local youth.

The coalition expressed gratitude for the city council's support, noting an annual contribution of approximately $1,800 to their Communities That Care efforts. This funding has enabled them to implement various programs, including mini-grants for extracurricular clubs in Sunset, which benefited 18 clubs, including those at Sunset Junior and Sunset Elementary.

A standout initiative was a summer camp funded with $15,000, serving 98 students from Doxey Elementary. This program provided literacy support, social skills development, and enriching field trips, addressing the needs of Title 1 students who may lack positive summer activities. Parents praised the camp, emphasizing its role in helping their children succeed academically and socially.

Additionally, the coalition introduced programs like "Catch My Breath," a vaping prevention initiative that reached around 140 youth, and offered mental health first aid training for adults and youth. They are also expanding their curriculum to include marijuana education, reflecting growing concerns in the community.

The coalition's efforts are not only about prevention but also about fostering strong family bonds and community connections. Their programs have shown promising results, with families reporting significant improvements in conflict reduction and closeness after participating in their classes.

As the coalition continues its work, they seek the council's support in promoting these valuable resources to ensure that families are aware of the programs available to them. The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration in building a healthier, more supportive environment for Sunset's youth.