Wheaton Urban District’s Second Community Conversation Will Focus on ‘Supporting Youth in Crisis’ on Tuesday, June 18

Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich will join the Wheaton Urban District at its second community conversation on the progress of new initiatives regarding addiction, violence and mental health affecting adolescents and young adults. The event will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, at the Wheaton Community Recreation Center.

The Wheaton Community Recreation Center is located at 11701 Georgia Avenue in Silver Spring. Registration is recommended. Register here.

The “Supporting Youth in Crisis” town hall will bring together community members, experts and local leaders to discuss critical issues affecting our youth and explore effective strategies and resources for support and recovery. County Executive Elrich will speak about current progress and next steps as County leaders address the effect of substance use on youth.

Among the speakers expected are:

• Kisha Davis, County health officer
• Steve Neff, director, Montgomery County Public Schools pupil personnel and attendance services
• Nora Morales, program director, Identity, Inc.

"Addressing youth violence, substance use and mental health is a top priority for me and for all of County Government,” said County Executive Elrich. “I understand the desperation families feel when their children are in need, and we recognize there is much more work to be done. This effort needs a united effort from businesses, community organizations, schools, families and government. Through community conversations like this we can work together to protect our loved ones and build a safer, healthier Montgomery County."

Attendees will hear from mental health professionals and community leaders who will provide valuable insights and strategies. There will be an opportunity to engage in open dialogue during the question-and-answer session, where community members can receive updates from Montgomery County and local partners on the latest initiatives and progress in addressing youth crises.

Highlights will include an update from Identity, a local community organization working with the County to pilot an innovative initiative combining direct street outreach with holistic family services to guide youth suffering from substance use disorder into treatment.

The Wheaton Urban District Advisory Committee (WUDAC) is sponsoring the town hall. WUDAC is comprised of 11 members appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council to provide advice on all matters affecting the Wheaton Urban District (downtown) area. Members represent businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, residents and the Mid-County Citizens Advisory Board.

More information about the meeting, in English and Spanish, is available HERE.

Participants will have the opportunity to connect with local organizations and service providers offering support and assistance. The event will feature tables with information on mental health services, youth services, family outreach services and harm reduction and prevention.

Dinner and child care will be provided. The event will be in Spanish and English with additional interpretation available upon request. Interpretation requests must be made at least three business days prior to the event. For interpretation requests, email Luisa Cardona at luisa.cardona@montgmerycountymd.gov.

For more information call 240-412-8721.