WABASH, IN- The Prevent, Recover, Rock Out event for all schools in Wabash County is becoming an annual occurrence to appeal to the Middle and High School students to accept the challenge to make the right choice to not fall into the trap caused by drugs, nicotine, and alcohol.
This year’s four-day focus was on vaping, the impact it has on our young people. Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) also known as vaping devices (vapes) are battery-operated devices that heat a liquid to produce an aerosol that users inhale. This aerosol typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other additives. The term e-cigarette is often used to refer to a broad class of tobacco products which also includes electronic cigars (e-cigars), electronic hookahs (e-hookahs), and other products.
Dan Gray, Director of Wabash County Tobacco Free Coalition, said that in Indiana, 1 in 10 high school students and 1 in 50 middle school students report currently vaping. In addition to nicotine, most e-cigarettes contain other potentially toxic substances. The tobacco industry continues to target youth, not only with aggressive advertising and marketing of flavors but even with “educational programs” for schools to try out.
Gray said, “More needs to be done to protect youth and prevent tobacco companies from marketing their dangerous products to kids.” Early use of any tobacco product can lead to long-term addiction. Additionally, because young people’s bodies and minds are developing, substance use, including nicotine, at this stage can impact their health and growth and lead to a wiring of unhealthy behaviors in the brain. According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, there is substantial evidence that e-cigarette use increases the risk of using regular combustible cigarettes among youth and young adults.
Robb Holla, known for his dynamic approach and ability to connect with young audiences, shared insights and personal stories that highlighted the importance of making informed choices. During the event, Holla encouraged students to think critically about the influence of peer pressure and media portrayals of drug use. He equipped them with practical strategies for resisting these pressures and advocating for healthier lifestyles among their peers.
Mike Keaffaber, MSD Superintendent said, “In an enlightening and engaging session held at the secondary schools in Wabash County, students were given a unique opportunity to learn about the risks and realities of vaping and fentanyl from acclaimed youth expert and motivational speaker, Robb Holla.”
Keaffaber also stated, “It is clear that when young people are provided with factual information and genuine support, they are fully capable of making decisions that positively impact their lives and the lives of those around them.”
Jeff Galley, Wabash High School Assistant Principal said, “Trying to educate teenagers about the dangers of vaping has been a constant and overwhelming battle. We still do not really know the long term mental and physical effects of vaping so being able to have someone other than a parent, teacher, or administrator let our students know the dangers that they present, makes it a more powerful and lasting message.”
Dorey Mobley, Assistant Principal at Manchester High School stated, “Robb Holla’s presentation was a powerful message. I was impressed with how engaged our students were and the fact that he could keep their attention for over an hour. I would invite presentations such as this one into our school any time.”
This event was made possible through the collaboration of the schools, the Wabash County Drug Prevention Steering Committee, and funding through the Opioid Settlement given to the County. Several community partners set up displays during the lunch periods after the assembly to share the resources available to the students and families. It marks a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to educate and protect young people from the dangers of substance abuse. Wabash County educators are encouraged by the success of the event and optimistic about its long-term impact on the community’s youth.