Kane County Youth Coalition reports back from CADCA conference and D.C. visit

On March 25, 2025, the Kane County Commission heard an update from the Kane County Youth Coalition (KCYC) on the group’s recent trip to Washington, D.C., and attendance at the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) conference. The presentation took place during the commission’s meeting at about 11:55 a.m.

The presentation summarized what coalition members learned at CADCA — an annual national prevention conference — and on Capitol Hill, where the youth said they met with their U.S. representative, identified in the transcript as "Molloy." Katie Clarkson, co‑president of KCYC, said the conference offered curriculum ideas the coalition hopes to bring to local schools and described sessions aimed specifically at youth leaders. "We got to present like a little 30‑second presentation of what we've been doing in our community to her, and she seemed very interested," Clarkson said.

Nut Graf: The coalition’s report is intended to inform the county about youth‑led prevention activities and to explain how national training and contacts could be used locally. Speakers highlighted interactive tools for prevention education, outreach plans for middle and high schools, and ways the coalition intends to expand its work in Valley and other communities.

Coalition members described several specific takeaways from CADCA. They said the conference included separate tracks for adults and for teenagers, guest speakers with motivational messages, and workshops the youth could adapt. One activity the presentation noted was an escape‑room exercise designed to teach participants about opioids; the coalition described it as a narrative game where players unlock parts of a story and confront choices about opioids to raise awareness among students and parents. "It really raised awareness, especially for parents," one youth said.

Presenters noted the trip also included monument and museum visits in Washington, D.C., and that KCYC expanded participation this year after securing additional funding to bring three youth from Valley. The coalition introduced new Valley members Naomi, Kaylee and Colt and said the experience helped those students learn how to build their local coalition.

Commissioners and meeting participants praised the youth for taking time from their lunches to present. One commissioner told the group, "I'm really proud of you," and urged continued focus on constructive activities to reduce substance misuse. The commission did not take policy action related to the presentation.

The meeting concluded after routine items; a motion to adjourn was made and the commission ended the session at 12:05 p.m.

Ending: The report served as an informational update; coalition leaders offered to return with more students and additional programming ideas in future meetings.