Championing INITIATIVEs to educate and empower our Island’s youth

VASHON

Formed in 2009, VARSA is an Island-based coalition dedicated to reducing underage substance use and promoting a healthy, drug and alcohol-free lifestyle among our youth.

Our network includes parents, educators, health professionals, and community leaders who work together to address the unique challenges faced by Island teens and their families.

Our initiatives are designed to empower both teens and their families, offering them the tools and resources they need to navigate the complex issues surrounding substance use and mental health.

ADVOCACY

Advocacy is at the heart of VARSA’s mission. We actively engage with policymakers, community organizations, and schools to promote policies and practices that prioritize the mental and physical health of our youth.

Our advocacy efforts focus on creating safer environments, increasing access to mental health services, and ensuring that reducing underage substance use is a top priority in our communities.

We also work to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help, encouraging open conversations about substance use and mental health.

By influencing public policy and community practices, VARSA aims to bring about lasting change that benefits teens and their families.

RESOURCES

We provide a comprehensive range of resources tailored to the needs of teens, parents, educators, and community members.

Our resources include educational guides on preventing underage substance use, mental health awareness, and communication strategies for families.

The goal is to equip families with the knowledge and tools they need to address underage substance use proactively and effectively.

Whether you're seeking information on how to talk to your teen about making healthy choices, looking for signs of substance misuse, or needing guidance on accessing professional help, VARSA is here to support you every step of the way.

SUPPORT

VARSA offers a variety of support designed to empower teens and educate community and families in reducing underage substance use.

  • Workshops and training on parenting, mental health support, and healthy lifestyle choices.

  • Dedicated school programs for teens to build resilience and decision-making skills.

  • Community forums and films to bring knowledge and expertise on youth substance use prevention and mental health awareness.

  • Educational guides on preventing underage substance use and promoting mental health.

  • Toolkits for parents, educators, and community leaders.

ACTION

Taking action is vital to our mission. VARSA offers many ways to get involved, from serving on the board, and volunteering at events to joining awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts.

Teens work on leadership skills through our in-school youth programs, while the community, parents, and caregivers can support change by participating in outreach and education.

Together, we can build a healthier community that supports everyone’s well-being.