Santa Ynez Valley People Helping People (PHP) has started a youth prevention and peer education group through Pirate’s Cove in partnership with Santa Ynez Valley Union High School. The group, known as Cove Champions, officially launches during Red Ribbon Week 2021.
The program is funded through a competitive grant from Santa Barbara County Behavioral Wellness to address the rising use of marijuana among youth in Santa Barbara County, and strives to empower young people to lead drug-free lives through awareness, education and engagement.
Maggie Johnson, youth programs director, and Marisela De La Cruz, youth programs specialist, have selected and trained students to serve as the inaugural cohort of peer educators including Ruby Carillo, Violeta Alcala, Alexis Mollo, Casandra Lopez, Lily Martinez, Lizbeth Ortiz Aguilera, Elizabeth Vergara, Estrella Nolazco, Mya Alvarado and Ampelia Lopez.
More students are encouraged to participate with the ongoing program.
PHP together with Santa Ynez Valley Youth Coalition have partnered with local schools and organizations to reignite the Red Ribbon Week observance, after the pandemic shuttered 2020 activities.
A variety of events are scheduled Oct. 25-29 at Valley schools, including presentations, raffles, dance lessons, theme days, and education, culminating with an assembly for Santa Ynez High School and Refugio High School students featuring Rising Scholars, a support program of Hancock’s Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS).
“The speakers are formerly incarcerated students who are now striving to create strong pathways to educational achievement and serve as mentors for youth to persist through challenges,” Johnson said. “They highlight the importance of making healthy choices and building positive relationships with their community. We believe this important message will resonate with all students and teachers.”