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
Did you know that stress can make it harder for the brain to think clearly? 🧠
When teens are overwhelmed, frustrated, or anxious, the parts of the brain responsible for problem solving and decision making don’t work as effectively. That’s why a calm conversation often has a much greater impact than a lecture in the heat of the moment.
You don’t have to have all the right answers.
Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is stay calm, listen, and let your child know you’re there for them.
💬 A calm conversation today can help build trust for tomorrow.
Talk Early. Talk Often.
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.
EN 
ES 
PT