Collaboration Forum: The Latest Research & The Next Generation of Peer Educators
Thursday, September 17, 2026 9–10:00am PST / noon–1:00pm EST
We are excited to share the latest national findings on youth drug perceptions, along with a brand-new way to empower young leaders in your community. First, we’ll dive into the third wave of our national study with Breakwater Research, tracking how teens and parents navigate today's drug landscape —their trusted sources, knowledge gaps and coping mechanisms under pressure. You'll walk away with actionable insights to strengthen your prevention messaging, mental health support and family engagement. We'll also introduce our new self-directed Peer Educator Certification course, showing you how young people can lead classroom presentations, host film screenings and advocate for prevention resources in their own schools.
What you'll get:
Latest Research Findings: A deep dive into shifted youth and parent attitudes across our 2022, 2024 and 2026 research waves
Practical Messaging Insights: Research-backed strategies to refine prevention messaging, mental health support and family outreach
Peer-Led Resources: A guided walkthrough of our new online Peer Educator Certification course and turn-key tools
Youth Empowerment Strategies: Actionable ways to support young people in leading presentations, film screenings and campus advocacy
Presenters:
Kristin MacRostie, Director, New Drug Talk
Breakwater Research Representative
Christina Julian, Director of Outreach, Song for Charlie
For questions, please contact: Denise Mariano, Vice President, Partnerships dmariano@songforcharlie.org