BE IN THE KNOW … Panel Discussion left to right: Su Thorp, Montpelier Chief of Police Dan McGee, Jeremy Thomas, Michelle Gibbs, and Keshia Shoup. (PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK, STAFF)
By: Anna Wozniak
ECHO Coalition held a panel discussion at Montpelier Schools on Thursday, March 23 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Parents and community members entered the auditeria to learn about the vaping epidemic, THC, alcohol use, and abusive relationships in youths.
The event began with resource tables for the attendees to learn about these issues. Resource tables present at this event were: Hope Community Center; Project Respect; Sarah’s Friends; Recovery Services of NWO; NOCAC; Maumee Valley Guidance Center; Williams County Safe Communities; ECHO Coalition- Hidden in Plain Sight; Awareness Team; Montpelier Police Department; NAMI Four County; and Never Let Go Ministries.
Bethany Coutz began welcoming attendees and explaining how e-cigarettes look and work, as well as introducing ways to talk to youths about vaping.
The Awareness Team then presented what they are doing to help the students at Montpelier Schools.
The Awareness Team is Montpelier youth led and works to help organize student events.
Williams County Health Department’s Health Educator Katie Brown followed with “Catch My Breath,” and then panel discussion and questions began.
Panel members were Montpelier middle and high school principal Su Thorp, Montpelier Chief of Police Dan McGee, Jeremy Thomas, Encourager and Overcomer, HR Specialist Michelle Gibbs, and Keshia Shoup BSN, RN.
Anna can be reached at anna@thevillagereporter.com