Safe Yakima Prevention Connection

Bridging Mental Health and Safety in Yakima with Jon Schwarder

In this episode of the Safe Yakima Prevention Connection Podcast, we explore the vital connection between mental health and community safety. Deputy Chief Jon Schwarder from the Toppenish Police Department shares his unique insights on supporting youth in overcoming challenges related to substance use and untreated mental health issues. With a focus on prevention, education, and reducing stigma, we discuss strategies to empower our community and create a safer environment for everyone. Tune in to learn more about effective interventions and how law enforcement and community collaboration play a crucial role in fostering a healthier Yakima Valley.
 
Intro and Outro Music Credit:
Guitar loops 113 05 verison 05 120.8 bpm by josefpres -- https://freesound.org/s/789827/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Building Safer Communities with Rob Darling: A Collaborative Approach in Grandview

In this episode, we delve into the power of community collaboration in creating a safe and thriving environment for youth. Our guest, Rob Darling, Superintendent of Grandview School District, shares his insights on harnessing empathy interviews to understand the root causes of community challenges and empowering students through student-led initiatives against hate speech. Learn how Grandview is building bridges between parents, schools, and local organizations to ensure the well-being of every child. Stay tuned for inspiring stories and practical tips to foster safer, substance-free communities.
 
Intro and Outro Music Credit:
Guitar loops 113 05 verison 05 120.8 bpm by josefpres -- https://freesound.org/s/789827/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Community First with Sheriff Udell: Law Enforcement’s Role in Youth Substance Prevention

In this episode, we explore the role law enforcement plays in substance use prevention, with a focus on its longstanding involvement in Yakima Valley schools. We're honored to welcome Sheriff Robert Udell of the Yakima County Sheriff's Office — a trusted leader in our community’s efforts to promote safety, prevention, and positive youth development.
Sheriff Udell isn't just a law enforcement leader; he's a lifelong Yakima County resident with deep roots, whose family arrived in the 1890s. With an extensive 35-year career spanning nearly every facet of the Sheriff's Office – from patrol and detective work in major crimes to being a D.A.R.E. officer in schools for five years, and now serving his seventh year as Sheriff – he brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective. As the current chair of Safe Yakima Valley, Sheriff Udell is deeply invested in collaborative prevention work and making Yakima a safer community to raise our youth. 

Youth Voices in Prevention: Arianna's Leadership Journey

In this episode of the Safe Yakima Prevention Connection podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of Arianna Rosales, a junior at Eisenhower High School and president of the SPARK Club. Arianna shares her experiences from joining as a freshman to leading the Drug and Alcohol Prevention Club with passion and dedication. Discover how she's breaking out of her shell, engaging peers, and becoming a vocal advocate for substance misuse prevention in Yakima County.
Listen as Arianna discusses the challenges and triumphs of engaging other youth in prevention work and the strategies that make the SPARK Club an effective and fun environment for students. She also touches on her personal growth and how involvement in the club is shaping her future aspirations.
Intro and Outro Music Credit:
Guitar loops 113 05 verison 05 120.8 bpm by josefpres -- https://freesound.org/s/789827/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Breaking Down Barriers with Alicia Stomme Tobin: How Safe Yakima Valley is Transforming Substance Use Prevention

Join hosts Katie Goodale and Marisol Esparza as they engage in insightful discussions with experienced community leaders. This episode features Alicia Stromme Tobin, Executive Director of Safe Yakima Valley, who shares her journey from banking to leading community efforts in youth substance use prevention through community collaboration.
Discover how Safe Yakima Valley is breaking down silos and fostering collaboration among public safety and public health agencies to strengthen prevention initiatives and expand resources across Yakima County. Alicia discusses the critical role of ODMAP in addressing the overdose epidemic and the importance of reducing stigma around medications for opioid use disorder.
Learn about Safe Yakima Valley's upcoming projects, including expanding school programs such as positive social norms campaigns, and community mentoring initiatives. Alicia emphasizes that local problems require local solutions, urging community members to get involved in coalitions and contribute to the transformative work happening in the Yakima Valley. Tune in to gain hope and inspiration for building a safer, healthier community together.
 
Intro and Outro Music Credit:
Guitar loops 113 05 verison 05 120.8 bpm by josefpres -- https://freesound.org/s/789827/ -- License: Creative Commons 0