This Spring, Planet Youth Timiskaming (PYT) invited Steve Keller from Drug Free Kids Canada (DFKC)
to give a series of presentations for both youth and parents across the district. These talks helped spark important conversations and fit right in with PYT’s goal of helping the community learn more about what helps keep young people healthy, safe, and supported.
Over three days, Steve gave seven presentations across three high schools in Kirkland Lake, Englehart, and Temiskaming Shores. He reached 442 students with real, honest information about drugs and alcohol, making decisions, and finding healthy ways to cope. The focus wasn’t on telling youth to just say no (because we know that doesn’t work!) – it was about giving them the facts, helping them think things through, and making sure they have the information and tools to make their own choices and stay as safe as possible.
We also hosted three parent workshops that drew in 48 parents, with 97% saying they’d recommend the workshop to others, and 100% finding it helpful for starting conversations with their kids about substance use.
The sessions also had a free dinner, on-site childcare, and door prizes thanks to the support of all four school boards.
What participants loved:
- Practical tips without judgment
- Engaging, funny, down-to-earth presentation style
- Real talk about what youth are actually facing today
- New info on things like vaping, cannabis, and emerging products like Zyn
Reflections from local parents:
“I appreciated the extent of info presented in a non-biased way. The presenter was awesome, lively, well-informed, humorous and well-prepared”
—Anonymous Participant
“Grateful to have this expertise brought to town”
— Anonymous Participant
“Casual and honest tone. Practical tips to talk to my child”
—Anonymous Participant
“Up to date information and insights into many things that influence youth choices today. Appreciated the information about how drugs ‘work.’”
—Anonymous Participant
“I participated in the Drug Free Kids Canada presentation at TDSS. I shared what I learned with my daughter, especially the part where it is important that her and her friends need to always have a plan when going out: a designated driver, a fully charged cell, carrying cash, knowing that 911 works even out of service, bringing bottles of ‘fake mixes’ once you’ve had enough to drink, know one friend’s cell number by heart, know your tolerance and being aware of your tolerance – especially how impaired judgement can lead to risking situations like unsafe sex, violence, or injury.
We also talked about how alcohol affects teens differently than adults. I was honest with her about things I did as a teen, like staying out too late, wandering off, or driving when I shouldn’t have. I didn’t expect the conversation to be so mature and grounded in facts, but I left room for questions and made a plan with her and that I will be thankful that she communicates and is honest with me regardless of what happens. Her safety comes first.
I also learned through a guest at my table about something I did not know—that I am liable for someone’s property damage if my child does that. I know now to plan in advance, keep the parties small, know the guest list, communicate the start and end time for the party, set my rules and expectations, have plenty of food and fun nonalcoholic beverages… I’ll be there, but non square… see but not be in the way.”
—JJ Riv
“Great alternative to what I was taught – I was for sure a DARE kid”
—Anonymous Participant
“Down to earth messaging, very interesting facts re: substance use in youth, it was enlightening to learn about how messaging has changes from negative (black and white) to not being based on morality.”
—Anonymous Participant
Not to worry if you missed the parent presentations, here’s a recording of the same presentation shared nationally last year.
You can find more great resources on the Drug Free Kids Canada website and YouTube channels (English / French).
Thank you to our school partners, students, families, and especially the team from Drug Free Kids Canada for making this event a success.
Would you like to see more events like this in your community in the future? Email PYT@neph.ca to let us know.
