#United States #Community Wellness #Substance Abuse #NEDHSA #Tallulah

NEDHSA's NED Talk Road Tour in Tallulah, LA

The Northeast Delta Human Services Authority (NEDHSA) is set to host its much-anticipated Northeast Delta Talk (NED Talk) Road Tour on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Tallulah Community Center. This initiative aims to foster discussions about substance use prevention, mental health awareness, and overall community well-being.

The NED Talk Road Tour represents a unique outreach effort from the Opportunity Zone Coalition, focused on addressing pivotal social factors that influence substance misuse and community health. This event will engage a diverse audience, including students from Madison and East Carroll parishes, families, educators, and local stakeholders in meaningful, age-appropriate dialogues centered on substance abuse prevention, resilience, and healthy decision-making.

Event Highlights

The program kicks off with welcoming remarks from Tallulah's Mayor and NEDHSA Board Chair, Yvonne Lewis. Attendees can expect updates from local school district superintendents that underscore the schools' commitment to fostering healthy environments for students. Educational sessions will address critical issues such as tobacco-free living and the dangers of prescription drug misuse.

Various public health experts, licensed behavioral health professionals, and NEDHSA’s Prevention and Wellness team will facilitate presentations designed to inform and empower participants. These sessions aim to raise awareness of the risks associated with substance use and provide actionable insights into protective factors that support mental wellness.

Expected Outcomes

The NED Talk Road Tour aims to achieve several objectives:

• - Increased Awareness: Participants will gain valuable insights into the dangers of substance misuse and the importance of substance abuse prevention.
• - Enhanced Knowledge: Attendees will learn about protective factors that can foster mental wellness among youth and families.
• - Stronger Community Connections: The initiative aims to improve the ties between schools, families, and local prevention resources, fostering an environment of collaboration and support.
• - Empowerment of Youth: By equipping young people with practical tools to make informed choices, the event encourages a proactive approach to health and wellness.

Mayor Yvonne Lewis emphasizes the importance of such initiatives, stating, "This event represents an important investment in the future of our community. By bringing students, families, and community leaders together, we are strengthening the foundation for healthier choices and brighter outcomes."

Dr. Monteic A. Sizer, Executive Director of NEDHSA, further elaborates on the mission of the NED Talk program. "Our goal with NED Talk is to meet young people where they are and foster honest, meaningful dialogue that supports prevention and positive youth development. These conversations help build resilience and promote healthier communities across the Northeast Delta."

Community Invitation

The event is open to all members of the public, and community participation is highly encouraged. NEDHSA believes that by fostering community-wide dialogue and collaboration, they can pave the way for a healthier future for everyone involved. Join the NED Talk Road Tour on January 22, 2026, to be a part of this vital conversation about community health and substance abuse prevention.

For more information, please contact NEDHSA or visit their official website. Together, let's promote a healthier, more resilient community.