Blog

In every community, there are people who have felt unseen or unheard — unsure if they belong, if their story matters, or if there’s a place for them to start again. At NorthBound & Co., that feeling of exclusion is what drives their mission: to create spaces where everyone is welcome, especially those navigating barriers tied to finances, justice involvement, recovery, or identity.

October is Substance Abuse Prevention Month, a time to shine a light on both prevention and treatment. Substance Use Disorder (SUD) is often misunderstood, but the reality is clear: it’s not a moral failing—it’s a medical condition. Treatment requires a system of care that addresses the full person, and that system should be accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free.

This summer, Deb was everywhere—classrooms, fairs, community events—spreading prevention education and lifesaving resources to people of all ages.

We Fight Fentanyl is proud to announce the launch of a new storytelling podcast: “Dose of Reality.”
This ongoing series will feature real voices from people impacted by the opioid epidemic—individuals in recovery, family members, first responders, prevention advocates, and community leaders.

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.