Nexus Coalition reports wide outreach, offers free naloxone training to Show Low

Vicky Solomon, executive director of Nexus Coalition for Drug Prevention, told the Show Low City Council on Oct. 21 that the nonprofit delivered prevention education to thousands of local residents and offers free naloxone training to organizations across Navajo County.

Solomon said the coalition’s most recent full-year numbers (2022–23) showed about 13,000 adults and 13,000 youth participated in Nexus trainings; the group recorded roughly 6,800 educational activities, distributed 986 naloxone (Narcan) kits with training, and produced about 69,000 education pieces. “The two main reasons why we exist is reduce substance use and increase resiliency and connection among the parents and caregivers,” Solomon told the council.

The presentation highlighted local programs including a teen-court diversion class (57 sessions affecting about 234 youth) and an ongoing junior leadership academy that has run for about 18 years in multiple communities. Solomon named Britney Quintanilla, Stormy Rawlings and Cheyenne Layton as leads for the diversion program and said referrals may come from family members, school staff or others.

Solomon described worrying trends she said Nexus sees in Show Low-area youth: “We’re seeing vaping starting at the age of 8 and 9 years old,” she said, and recounted a case of an 8-year-old who reported starting at age 5. She said Nexus focuses primary prevention work at roughly fourth and fifth grades and provides programs from third grade through high school, plus adult trainings and resiliency workshops.

The coalition also promotes mental-health resources and telehealth referrals, and Solomon described a weekly Thursday Zoom support session focused on families of people with addictions. She said Nexus vets referral partners that appear on its website.

Council members thanked Solomon for the work. Councilmember McCart asked whether Nexus saw particular age groups in need; Solomon reiterated the group targets prevention at ages 9–10 while offering services across grade levels. Councilmember House McClure praised the organization’s long-term community presence and positive tone.

Solomon left contact information for groups seeking naloxone training and said Nexus will provide training for free. She also noted Nexus was selected for a local fundraising “Giving Machine” event that will visit Show Low and nearby towns.