Central MetroWest Substance Awareness & Prevention Collaborative
Uniting communities through connection and collaboration to prevent youth substance use and misuse, foster a culture of wellness, and ensure every young person has the support they need to thrive.
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of youth haven’t vaped or used alcohol in the last 30 days
%
of youth haven’t used cannabis in the last 30 days.
%
of students report having a supportive adult in their lives.
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Uniting Communities through Connection & Collaboration
Whether you’re a parent or caregiver, or youth looking for guidance, an educator seeking resources, or a community member eager to create change, CMSAPC brings seven communities together to build a healthier, united region.
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Support for parents, caregivers, and youth
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Educational resources for educators
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Community health and prevention programs
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Opportunities to lead local change
Explore Our Local Coalitions
Ashland
Hudson
Marlborough
Natick
Northborough
Southborough
Westborough
View All Communities
Youth Substance Use Prevention Resources
Community Events
View our Events Calendar to stay informed about workshops, training sessions, and wellness activities happening across Central MetroWest.
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Great news for our Westborough partners! A great team doing the most for the youth in their community!
💬 Tuesday Tip #2: Use open ended questions.
Instead of asking questions that can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” try asking questions that invite your child to share what they’re thinking and feeling.
Questions like:
• “What do kids your age think about cannabis?”
• “What would you do if someone offered you cannabis?”
• “Why do you think some teens choose to use substances?”
Open ended questions create space for conversation, not interrogation. When young people feel heard instead of judged, they’re more likely to open up and keep coming back to you with the big stuff.
Remember, the goal isn’t to have one perfect conversation. It’s to build trust through many small conversations over time.
We are starting a new series of posts on Thursdays all about the brain!
🧠 Brain Fact #1
Did you know the brain continues developing until about age 25? One of the last areas to fully mature is the part responsible for decision making, planning, and self-control.
That’s one reason adolescence is such an important time for healthy brain development. While teens are learning, growing, and becoming more independent, they still benefit from guidance and support from trusted adults.
The good news? You don’t need to have one perfect conversation. Small, honest conversations over time can help build trust and keep the door open when it matters most.
💬 Start the conversation. Keep it going.
Talk Early. Talk Often.
EN 
ES 
PT