#USA #San Rafael #Alcohol Justice #Healthy Living #NextGen Youth Advocates

Celebrate Health and Wellness on Cinco de Mayo

This year, join the community and celebrate Cinco de Mayo at NextGen Youth Advocates' (NGYA) Health & Wellness Open House, taking place over two exciting days on May 4th and 5th at the Alcohol Justice offices in the Canal District of San Rafael, California. This free event promises a blend of fun, education, and engagement designed for local youth and their families.

Engaging Activities for Everyone

The Open House aims to promote substance prevention and healthy lifestyles through a variety of activities. Participants will have the chance to engage in hands-on workshops, attend informative sessions, and participate in community gardening demonstrations. NGYA youth advocates, who are eager to share their experiences and insights, will be at the forefront of all activities, showcasing their dedication to healthy living and community engagement.

Chauncey Bryant, a Co-Instructor of the NGYA Youth Advocates, emphasized the importance of youth empowerment and the significant role they play in fostering a positive change in their communities. "We are passionate about equipping youth as changemakers of our future. They need to know that their voice matters, regardless of their age," Bryant declared.

A Focus on Substance Prevention

At the heart of the event is the mission to simplify the concept of substance prevention. The Open House seeks to educate attendees on how to maintain a balanced life and promote the idea that healthy choices are accessible to everyone. Susan Bryant, another Co-Instructor with NGYA, stated, "In our fast-paced digital world, this event offers opportunities for personal connections and resources to help youth make choices that foster lifelong growth and health."

The initiative recognizes the increasing need for alcohol-free spaces in communities, urging local youth to take charge of creating spaces that are safe and conducive to healthy interactions. It promotes the idea of establishing 'third places,' which serve as constructive environments for youth-friendly gatherings that positively engage young people.

Building Community Connections

NGYA aims to bring together youth from the San Rafael Canal District and across Marin County, creating an environment where kids can learn from each other while cultivating positive and protective behaviors. Through supportive after-school programs, NGYA helps children develop skills in self-advocacy and community engagement.

Raul Verdugo, the Director of Advocacy for Alcohol Justice, highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing personal health and empowerment. "It's all about demonstrating what we can do together to seek change. Youth can envision the world they deserve, and we provide the tools they need to make that vision a reality."

Event Details

Event: Health & Wellness Open House
Dates: May 4th and 5th, 2025
Location: Alcohol Justice, 24 Belvedere St., San Rafael, CA 94901
Schedule:

• - Saturday, May 4, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
• - Sunday, May 5, 2025 | 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

The event will provide valuable opportunities for participants to learn about the significance of substance prevention, engage in youth advocacy, and discover organic gardening practices. Attendees will leave with tangible items including fresh organic produce, vegetable starts, and children's books—all in celebration of healthy living!

Thanks to the support of the Sierra Health Foundation and Marin County HEAL Collaborative, NextGen Youth Advocates is excited to host this inclusive event that fosters a sense of community while addressing critical needs.

Join us this Cinco de Mayo weekend for an unforgettable experience focused on health, wellness, and community connection. Together, let's work towards building a healthier future for our youth.