Summer should be a time for sunshine, fun, and freedom—but it also comes with risks, especially for children and teens navigating peer pressure, boredom, and unstructured time. At We Fight Fentanyl, we believe prevention doesn’t stop when school lets out. In fact, summer is one of the most important times to stay informed, engaged, and connected.
In Monroe County, prevention doesn’t take a summer break—and neither does Debra Hartley. As a passionate prevention specialist and community educator, Deb is taking bold steps this summer to engage youth, families, and local organizations across our County with programs designed to empower, educate, and protect.
At We Fight Fentanyl, we understand that getting help for substance use disorder isn’t always simple. Transportation challenges, confusion about where to start, and long wait times can make an already difficult situation feel impossible. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Recovery Route, a new program designed to eliminate barriers and make access to treatment easier than ever. Transportation and stable housing shouldn’t stand in the way of your journey to recovery.
When we met with Laycia Ianniello, her strength was undeniable. At just 16 years old, she has faced a loss no child should ever have to endure—the passing of her father due to fentanyl. Despite the pain, Laycia has turned her grief into advocacy, using her voice to spread awareness and prevent other families from experiencing the same heartbreak.
Monroe County has made significant strides in the battle against fentanyl, with the community coming together to combat this crisis. In a recent interview, we spoke with a Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS), who shared valuable insights into the progress being made, the challenges that remain, and the hope for the future.
Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time to express love and care for others, but it’s also an opportunity to focus on the most important relationship of all—the one you have with yourself. Self-care isn’t just about pampering; it’s about taking steps to ensure your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. This Valentine’s Day, let’s explore how self-care and community care go hand-in-hand, especially when it comes to protecting ourselves and our loved ones from the dangers of fentanyl and other substances.