Let’s TALC (Teach, Access, Learn, Choice)

Let’s TALC (Teach, Access, Learn, Choice)

Project Theme: Opioid and Drug Addiction Prevention
Years in Existence: 3
Target Audience and Location: Governor Thomas Johnson High School students in Frederick, MD.
Mission: Let’s TALC offers teens opportunities for healthy stress relief and to practice informed decision-making about drugs and opioids in a supportive community.

Project Description: Founding Scholar Diya Jha and educator Scholar Paige Spangler established Let’s TALC to raise awareness about opioid and drug addiction while fostering a supportive environment that avoids scare tactics. Through community events partnered with local businesses, Let’s TALC offers students the opportunity to learn about the impacts of drug addiction, share personal experiences, and exchange positive coping strategies. This year’s leader, Jake Grumwell, along with his team, seeks to provide outlets and resources for their peers to encourage healthy habits. One of their signature events, Therapy Dogs, seeks to provide a fun after-school activity that creates an environment that welcomes conversation about the impact of substance abuse. The team is proud of “the success we’ve seen with our events, including a Color Run and Therapy Dogs.”