In an effort to address the rising concerns around substance misuse among younger populations,
The Franklin County Youth Coalition has launched a groundbreaking initiative, the "Gerry Campaign," aimed
specifically at elementary school students. Recognizing the importance of early intervention and
education, the campaign seeks to engage young children in a conversation about the harmful
effects of substance misuse in a way that is both age-appropriate and impactful.
The campaign's primary goal is to raise awareness among children at a crucial developmental
stage, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their
health and well-being.
The Franklin County Youth Coalition has tailored the campaign to resonate with elementary-aged children by
introducing "Gerry", a cute and friendly Giraffe, along with Leo the Lion, Zack the Zebra, Ellie
the Elephant, Murphy the Monkey, and Chloe the Crocodile. Gerry and friends will be featured
in a series of educational materials, including videos, coloring books, and flyers to help children
better grasp the dangers of substance misuse in a way that feels approachable and non-
threatening.
The Gerry Campaign is more than just an educational program; it’s a community-driven effort to
foster a culture of health and responsibility from a young age. By equipping students with early
knowledge, The FC Youth Coalition hopes to curb the onset of risky behaviors later in
adolescence.
The FC Youth Coalition hopes that this proactive, child-friendly initiative will inspire other
organizations to adopt similar strategies, ultimately creating a broader societal shift toward early
education and prevention when it comes to substance misuse.
The Gerry Campaign underscores the importance of early intervention and the power of
community collaboration in shaping healthier futures for the next generation. If you would like to learn more about the Gerry Campaign or would like to participate, contact the Franklin County Prevention Coalition at https://www.fcpctn.org/contact-us.
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