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.
%
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.
Follow Us & Join the CMSAPC Online Community
At a recent community retreat, parents had the chance to hear from CMSAPC about how cannabis has changed and the impact it can have on young people today. Their reaction?
“We thought we knew… but we need to learn more.”
In just a short conversation, it became clear that many adults are working from outdated information and that new, accurate knowledge can completely shift how they approach these conversations.
Because when adults:
✔ Revisit what they think they know
✔ Stay open to new information
✔ Seek out resources and support
They become better equipped to guide their kids through real-life decisions.
That’s what Talk Early. Talk Often. is all about: helping adults move from assumption → understanding → action. It’s never too late to learn something new. And it’s never too early to start the conversation!
💬 Have you had conversations about vaping or cannabis products yet?
One of the biggest challenges communities are facing right now when it comes to substance misuse: Access.
With the rise of vape devices, cannabis products are easier to use — and easier to share — than ever before. Many don’t require preparation, don’t have a strong smell, and can be passed between peers quickly and discreetly. That ease of access can make a big difference, especially for young people.
These products often contain higher levels of THC, and it can be difficult to know how much is being used in a single moment. That uncertainty can increase the risk of negative experiences, particularly for youth who may not fully understand what they’re using.
That’s why awareness matters:
✔ Understanding what these products look like
✔ Knowing how they’re used
✔ Keeping open, judgment-free conversations going
The more informed adults are, the better we can support young people in making safe, healthy decisions!
💬 What’s one way you keep conversations open with the young people in your life?
Today’s cannabis is very different from what many adults remember. Products are often more potent, which can increase the risk of negative effects ... especially for young or first-time users.
That’s why prevention starts with conversation. Young people are incredibly impressionable in both positive and negative ways. As adults, we have an opportunity to guide them with clear, honest, and age-appropriate information.
The goal isn’t fear, it’s understanding.
✔ What cannabis is
✔ How it’s changed
✔ Why delaying use matters
The Talk Early. Talk Often. campaign is here to help make those conversations easier — and more effective.
Start early. Stay consistent. Keep it real.
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