CORE: Community Opioid Response & Education
Preventing youth substance use. Together.
Substance use is the silent fire threatening our youth.
It spreads quietly—in moments of isolation, disconnection, and unmet needs. But we believe there's a better way forward—and it starts long before the flames.
If we responded to youth substance use the way we responded to the Carr Fire—with urgency, compassion, and a village mindset—we could stop the next crisis before it starts.
CORE: Community Opioid Response & Education
CORE is a four-year, community-powered initiative led by Raising Shasta in partnership with Youth Options Shasta. Together with local nonprofits, schools, and caring adults, we're building a united front against youth substance use.
"We're not just raising awareness—we're equipping people to make a difference."
A 3-Tiered Response
Tier 1
Community Awareness, Education & Engagement
Tier 2
Mentoring & Parent Education
Tier 3
Early Intervention for Youth & Families
Community Awareness, Education & Engagement
We're shifting the conversation with:
Candid, kind video campaigns (how not to talk to kids about drugs)
Community trainings open to all
Youth-centered content that resonates
Newsletters, resources, and in-person events
"This is for everyone. You don't need a title to matter. If you care, you're part of the solution."
Mentoring & Parent Education
Relationships are our strongest form of prevention. CORE supports:
Mentoring Programs
Community-Based Mentoring
Volunteer mentors meet youth in real life—parks, events, coffee shops.
60
youth annually
School-Based Mentoring
On-campus mentoring makes connection accessible and routine.
60
youth annually
Teen Center Mentoring
Creating vibrant teen hubs with activities, mentors, and staff support.
60
youth annually
PAL Boxing
Law enforcement–led boxing mentorship program for youth.
60
youth annually
Parent Education
Triple P and Strengthening Families workshops
One-time educational events in partnership with schools and nonprofits
150+
parents directly
300+
through events
Early Intervention for Youth & Families
For youth already affected by substance use, CORE offers:
Restorative justice programming
Aggression Replacement Training
Harm reduction and honest, supportive education
Connection to trusted mentors and family support
All services are delivered with compassion and clarity, never judgment.
CORE is a collaboration
CORE equips the mentors, parents, and youth touchpoints—like bus drivers, coaches, lunch aides, and caring community members—who can become the firebreak that prevents the blaze.
You don't have to be a professional to make a difference. You just have to care.
Every Role Matters
Whether you're a parent, a volunteer, a donor, a recess aide, or someone who knows what it feels like to be that kid—there's a place for you in CORE.
Together, we can build the community where youth don't just stay safe from substance use… They believe in their future.
Be part of our community's solution.
Whether you're here to build a stronger path forward, find connections and resources, or lend your skills or support, we're here to help you take the first step!
