The City of Avondale is gearing up to tackle the opioid epidemic head-on with its upcoming "POP - Peer Opioid Prevention" summit. In an effort to educate and empower parents and teens alike, the Neighborhood and Family Services Department, alongside Avondale Public Safety, will host the event funded by the city's ONE Campaign (Opioid & Narcotic Education). Set to take place on April 25 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Arizona Complete Health Avondale Resource Center, the summit is a prime opportunity for the community to gain vital information on opioid prevention.

The program is structured to feature a range of workshops, speakers, and breakout sessions. These sessions are specifically tailored to not only fully engage families but also to separately and effectively address the concerns of young individuals (ages 13-18) and their parents. During the summit, participants will have the chance to rapidly learn about the dangers associated with fentanyl, recognize the signs of exposure, and discuss the strategies to defend against its far-reaching effects on their lives.

It's not all heavy learning though – attendees at the summit can expect additional perks such as raffle prizes, as well as enjoy complementary boxed dinners and refreshments. Donna Gardner, the Avondale Youth and Community Engagement Manager, emphasized the commitment of local authorities towards creating a safe and well-informed community, particularly in fighting against the scourge of opiates. "Together, let's empower our youth and families to make healthier choices and build a brighter future for Avondale," Gardner stated in an announcement highlighted by the City of Avondale.

Due to limited space, those interested in attending the summit are encouraged to register in advance. Not only will this guarantee a spot, but also attendees who register beforehand will be treated to a complimentary catered boxed dinner. Registration can be completed by visiting the city's event page. For more detailed information, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Avondale Youth and Community Engagement Division directly at (623) 333-2723 or through email at [email protected].