Community Empowerment Prevention Programs (Region 12 RPP and Region 4 PFS) recently had the opportunity to connect with students at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) for an engaging and impactful prevention session.
Our presentation, “What You Think vs. What’s Real: Understanding Substance Use and Decision-Making,” was designed to challenge perceptions and provide students with accurate, research-based information about substance use. By addressing common myths and highlighting real data, we encouraged students to think critically about the choices they make and how those decisions can impact their future.
To keep the session interactive and engaging, we incorporated a live Myth vs. Fact activity, where students actively participated by identifying whether statements were true or false. We followed this with a Jeopardy-style game that reinforced key concepts in a fun and memorable way.
Throughout the session, we emphasized:
- The impact of substance use on academic performance and mental health
- The importance of informed decision-making
- Healthy coping strategies as alternatives to substance use
This event reflects our ongoing commitment to prevention education across Southeast Arkansas. By meeting students where they are and creating spaces for open conversation, we are helping build knowledge, confidence, and resilience.
We appreciate UAPB for the opportunity to engage with their students and look forward to continuing this important work in our communities.