HC DrugFree

HC DrugFree HC DrugFree is a Howard County nonprofit organization with a mission of empowering the community to raise drug-free youth.

Whether it's being offered alcohol, feeling pressured by friends, or simply wanting to leave an uncomfortable situation,...
09/02/2026

Whether it's being offered alcohol, feeling pressured by friends, or simply wanting to leave an uncomfortable situation, young people benefit from having a plan before those moments happen.

This short video shares practical strategies parents can use to prepare children and teens to respond confidently when faced with uncomfortable situations.

🎥 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edIDpdx05Rc

Simple conversations at home can make a lasting difference. Let your child know they can always call or text you if they need a ride or want to leave a situation—no questions asked in the moment. Practice responses they can use to decline alcohol or other substances and discuss ways to support friends in making healthy choices.

Research consistently shows that parents remain one of the strongest influences on a young person's decisions. Building trust through regular, judgment-free conversations helps children feel comfortable reaching out when they need support.

Driving high is driving under the influence. Never get behind the wheel impaired.Remember to safely lock and secure all ...
09/01/2026

Driving high is driving under the influence.

Never get behind the wheel impaired.

Remember to safely lock and secure all medications, alcohol, or other dangerous items in your home to prevent misues, unwanted access, or harm.

TODAY is is International Overdose Awareness Day!đź’™ Naloxone (Narcan) saves lives.Knowing the signs of an opioid overdose...
08/31/2026

TODAY is is International Overdose Awareness Day!

đź’™ Naloxone (Narcan) saves lives.

Knowing the signs of an opioid overdose and understanding how to use naloxone can help you respond during an emergency.

Everyone has a role in overdose prevention. Learn the facts, reduce stigma, and share lifesaving resources with your community.

A national study of teens ages 11–18 found that teens who reported va**ng THC, CBD, or both also reported more anxiety a...
08/27/2026

A national study of teens ages 11–18 found that teens who reported va**ng THC, CBD, or both also reported more anxiety and depression symptoms than teens who did not report cannabis va**ng.

The takeaway: Every type of cannabis va**ng in this study was linked with more reported mental health symptoms. Families can help prevent va**ng use and promote healthy behaviors by talking openly about cannabis va**ng, checking in about stress and mood, and connecting teens with support when needed.

Read the full study summary from the Recovery Research Institute:
https://buff.ly/e7go3gm

Next Monday is International Overdose Awareness Day — a day to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose, sup...
08/24/2026

Next Monday is International Overdose Awareness Day — a day to remember those who have lost their lives to overdose, support those affected, and raise awareness about prevention and recovery.

Every conversation, every resource shared, and every effort to reduce stigma can help save lives.

Prevention starts with education, compassion, and connection. Together, we can support healthier communities.

🛑 School is almost back, and so will school buses!When you see flashing red lights and the stop arm extended, you must s...
08/20/2026

🛑 School is almost back, and so will school buses!

When you see flashing red lights and the stop arm extended, you must stop. It’s the law, and more importantly, it protects children’s lives.

🚍 Stop for school buses in both directions on two-lane roads.
đźš« Never try to pass a stopped bus.
đź‘€ Stay alert in neighborhoods and school zones.

Let’s work together to keep Howard County students safe all year long.
A few extra seconds could save a life.

August is Officially Designated as National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month! To unite communities across the coun...
08/16/2026

August is Officially Designated as National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month!

To unite communities across the country to protect our youth from addiction and stopping substance use before it starts, The White House Proclamation has designated August 2026 as National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month.

With a focus on evidence based primary prevention, as well as providing proactive education to children, the initiative aims to safeguard young people and build a healthier and safer future.

Learn more about National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month by reading the official White House Proclamation and accessing prevention resources at SAMHSA

Read the White House Proclamation:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2026/08/national-substance-use-primary-prevention-month-2026/

Access SAMHSA Prevention Month Resources:
https://www.samhsa.gov/about/digital-toolkits/substance-use-prevention-month

Save the date for our upcoming fall medication disposal!We will accept prescription and over-the-counter medication, vit...
08/12/2026

Save the date for our upcoming fall medication disposal!

We will accept prescription and over-the-counter medication, vitamins, veterinary medication, v**e devices (with batteries removed), and more.

Pills may remain in bottles. No need to remove labels. Safely dispose of:
• Prescription Medication
• Over-the-counter meds
• Vitamins
• V**e Devices with batteries removed
• Inhalers
• Pet Medication
…and more!

As we confirm accepting other items, we will update our website. At this time, we do not plan to collect sharps.


International Youth Day 2026 is centered on the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” While young people’s exp...
08/12/2026

International Youth Day 2026 is centered on the theme "Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.” While young people’s experiences may differ, many share hopes for opportunity, quality education, meaningful participation, and a healthy future.

In Howard County, HC DrugFree’s Teen Advisory Council helps turn those aspirations into action. Young people build knowledge, share their perspectives, serve as role models, and contribute ideas that support a healthier, more connected community.
When youth have opportunities to be heard, learn, and lead, their ideas can help create supportive spaces where young people can thrive and make healthy choices.
Learn more about International Youth Day and the 2026 theme: https://www.un.org/en/observances/youth-day

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5305 Village Center Drive #206
Columbia, MD
21044

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