Palm Bay families, prepare to be part of an inspiring new program aimed at empowering our youth and fostering healthy, positive choices in the community! The Brevard Prevention Coalition is launching the weekly “I Choose Me” initiative, designed to empower youth and prevent substance misuse through creative and engaging activities.
The program will kick off with the “I Choose Art” event on January 28 and 29 at the Tony Rosa and Ted Whitlock Community Centers. These free events will feature renowned multidisciplinary artist Christopher Maslow, whose inspiring work has been showcased across various platforms, offering children aged 6-13 an opportunity to paint, learn, and connect in a positive environment. Families can also enjoy light refreshments and access valuable resources during the event.
Kickoff Event Details
Tony Rosa Community Center
- Location: 1502 Port Malabar Blvd NE
- Date: Tuesday, January 28
- Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Ted Whitlock Community Center
- Location: 370 Championship Circle NW
- Date: Wednesday, January 29
- Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Following the kickoff events, the “I Choose Me” program will continue weekly:
- Tony Rosa Community Center: Every Tuesday from 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM
- Ted Whitlock Community Center: Every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
What Is “I Choose Me”?
The “I Choose Me” initiative provides a supportive and empowering space for children to build self-esteem, explore healthy coping strategies such as expressing emotions through art, practicing mindfulness, and learning effective communication skills, and make informed decisions. By using creative activities like art, the program aims to prevent substance misuse before it starts, fostering resilience and positive choices among participants.
Stanley Brizz, Executive Director of the Brevard Prevention Coalition and Chairperson of the Opioid Misuse Task Force in Brevard County, shared the program’s vision:
“We firmly believe the best defense against the opioid crisis, as well as the personal, familial, financial, and societal issues it has led to, is preventing addiction and substance misuse before it starts.” Brizz emphasized the program’s unique approach of showing youth what they can achieve, rather than focusing on what to avoid.
About the Brevard Prevention Coalition
The Brevard Prevention Coalition is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing substance misuse among youth and building healthier communities. By collaborating with local partners, they offer education, resources, and initiatives that empower individuals and families to thrive.
For more information about the organization, visit their website at brevardprevention.org.
How to Participate
Families interested in attending the “I Choose Art” kickoff events or enrolling their children in the weekly program can reach out to Latoya Watson for more details:
- Phone: (321) 209-2161
- Email: lwatson@brevardprevention.org
Get Involved
Community members can support the Brevard Prevention Coalition by volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness. Opportunities to make a difference include assisting at events, sharing resources, or contributing your skills to support their mission. To learn more about getting involved, visit brevardprevention.org/get-involved.
This program is more than just an event; it’s a step toward a brighter and healthier future for Palm Bay’s youth, equipping them with tools to overcome challenges, foster creativity, and make positive contributions to their community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative initiative–mark your calendars and join the movement!
For more community-focused stories and updates, visit The Palm Bayer.