Start Talking Grandview updates council; city proclaims November Red Ribbon Week

Megan Hatta, a Grandview Heights resident speaking for Start Talking Grandview, told city council the volunteer-led coalition has focused on community conversations about substance use for more than 10 years and has worked closely with Grandview Heights High School students.

“Our funding comes from community donations and grants. We are honored to have received $12,234 in grant funding over the 10 years,” Hatta said, adding that local support — including nearly $6,000 from MooMoo Car Wash — helps fund a $1,000 annual scholarship for a graduating senior. She invited the public to a library panel on Tuesday, Nov. 18, titled “Stress, Trauma, and the Ways We Cope.”

Council president and Mayor Kearns thanked the group and, following the presentation, council unanimously approved a recognition resolution proclaiming November 2025 as Red Ribbon Week in Grandview Heights. The proclamation calls on residents, schools, businesses and other institutions to wear red ribbons and participate in drug- and violence-prevention activities.

Why it matters: Local prevention coalitions link residents, schools and service providers and provide low‑cost public education and youth engagement. City recognition can raise visibility for outreach, help attract small grants and encourage partnerships between the library, schools and civic groups.

The council presentation concluded with students from Start Talking Grandview joining the dais for photos and brief remarks. The group’s Nov. 18 library program was noted as part of the city’s calendar of community events.