Virtual Event to Feature Coping Resources and Highlight SAPCA Accomplishments, Goals

Attend a community event on December 16, 6-7 p.m., featuring resources and tools for coping with stress and change during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Page updated on March 18, 2022 at 1:43 PM
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Virtual Event to Feature Coping Resources and Highlight SAPCA Accomplishments, Goals

A DCHS CONNECT NEWS HIGHLIGHT

 

December 10, 2020--The Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) is hosting a virtual community event on December 16, 6-7 p.m., featuring resources and tools for coping with stress and change during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as highlighting the coalition’s accomplishments and goals.

Guest speaker Stacey D. Hardy-Chandler, Ph.D., J.D., will share coping resources and tools for youth and adults. Dr. Hardy-Chandler is the director of the Department of Community and Human Services Center for Children and Families and co-chair of Resilience Alexandria: Inform, Support, Elevate, Alexandria’s trauma-informed community network.

During the pandemic, SAPCA has prioritized sharing messaging about the importance of incorporating healthy coping practices as a component of building resilient families, youth and communities.

“As we prepare for a holiday season that will be different from previous years, it is important to continue to find and use healthy coping mechanisms when faced with stress and encourage loved ones to do the same,” says SAPCA Coordinator Emma Beall. “Choosing to deal with stress by drinking alcohol or using other substances can actually have a harmful effect, not only on your body but on those around you.”

In addition to the presentation on coping resources, SAPCA representatives will share highlights of the coalition’s work over the past year, including efforts to continue prevention work in a virtual environment.

“While the pandemic has certainly presented many challenges for SAPCA and other community organizations, our team has continued to pivot by modifying initiatives and finding new ways to connect virtually with children, youth and families,” said SAPCA Coordinator Emma Beall. 

To attend, register online; a confirmation email containing information about the joining the meeting will be sent.

SAPCA is an alliance of more than 80 members representing parents, youth, schools, City of Alexandria health and recreation agencies, media, nonprofits, businesses, faith communities, policymakers and law enforcement whose mission is to engage the entire community in reducing youth substance use and abuse in Alexandria. For more information visit preventitalexandria.org.