HOPE for Caldwell, a local coalition dedicated to preventing substance misuse and promoting community well-being, proudly announces the winners of its inaugural Fentanyl Awareness Challenge, a youth-led initiative designed to educate and empower young people in the fight against fentanyl-related overdoses.
Launched on January 1, 2025, the challenge invited local students aged 14 to 18 to develop creative ways to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and counterfeit pills. Participants explored various outreach methods, including digital media, public service campaigns, and community-driven projects, all aimed at preventing overdoses and fostering informed discussions among their peers.
Thanks to generous support from VAYA Health, which contributed $1,500 toward prizes for winners and supplies for the challenge, HOPE for Caldwell was able to recognize and reward innovative youth-led initiatives that address this critical issue.
Following months of submissions and careful judging in April 2025, HOPE for Caldwell has named the top three winners:
- 1st Place: Jacorian Logan, 11th Grade, West Caldwell High School
- 2nd Place: Darissa Horton, 12th Grade, Caldwell Applied Sciences Academy
- 3rd Place: Gavin Keys, 9th Grade, Hibriten High School
Each winning submission will be prominently featured on social media platforms, ensuring their messages reach a wide audience.
As HOPE for Caldwell continues to invest in community-driven prevention efforts, initiatives like the Fentanyl Awareness Challenge demonstrate the effectiveness of youth engagement in addressing public health concerns.
Photo Caption: The Fentanyl Awareness Challenge winners are congratulated by members of Hope for Caldwell. Pictured left to right are: Jordan Jefferies-James with the Caldwell County Health Department, Alicia Stanislaw with UNC Health Caldwell, Jennifer Robson with Lenoir Housing Authority, third place winner Gavin Keys, second place winner Darissa Horton, first place winner Jacorian Logan, and Roger Hayley with RHA.