NORTHAMPTON — A coalition of local organizations is hosting a gathering in the hopes of sparking a conversation about substance abuse between parents and their children.
Hosted by First Churches, “Helping Families Talk about Substance Abuse: A Dinner and Conversation for Teens and Those who Care about Them” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday in Lyman Hall, 129 Main St. The event includes pizza and drinks for participating families.
The discussion, open to the public, is a collaborative effort with the Northampton Prevention Coalition, the Strategic Planning Initiative for Families and Youth (SPIFFY), and Hampshire HOPE.
“Ultimately, we’ll be giving some concrete information about what parents can do (and) what youth can do to prevent substance abuse,” said Heather Warner, SPIFFY coalition coordinator.
During the discussion, parents and teens can ask a panel of experts questions about substance abuse.
Organizers later will divide parent and youth attendees into separate groups. Parents will trade effective parenting strategies while teenagers can discuss what they wish they could talk about with their elders regarding substance abuse.
“I think every family often has a little different experience with substance abuse,” Warner said.
Fostering open dialogue between parents and their children is critical, she said. Toward the end of the discussion participants will be encouraged to write letters to one another or to the church.
“I think that it definitely needs to be a two-way conversation — it can’t just be parents preaching to their kids,” Warner said.
It is healthier for families to discuss expectations regarding substance abuse and establish safety precautions, she said.
“As a coalition, we’re just really thrilled to be working with, and partnering with, the faith community on this dinner and discussion night,” Warner said.