To the Editor:

Join Community Action for Safe Teens (CAST) on Thursday, April 6, at the Amato Center in Milford as we view “Generation Found.”

The documentary was created by Greg Williams, award-winning producer of “Anonymous People.” This is a story about hope for young people and recovery from alcohol or other drug dependence. For nine out of 10 people, the disease of addiction begins in adolescence, and there are minimal supports for our young people. In fact, 9 percent of high school youths in the Souhegan Valley report having their first drink of alcohol before the age of 13 (2015 Souhegan Valley YRBS). New Hampshire ranks second in the nation for drug-induced deaths, as well as second in the nation in the percentage of residents age 12 and up with alcohol or drug dependence or abuse in the past year (SAMHSA, NSDUH 2014).

In 2016, New Hampshire lost close to 500 people to drug and alcohol deaths. We need to show our young people there are alternatives to alcohol and other drug use and create a continuum of care that offers HOPE.

This event is free and open to the public; however, registration is requested. Register today at bit.ly/CAST4_2017. CAST is the youth substance use prevention coalition serving the Souhegan Valley and is dedicated to developing solution-based strategies. Visit www.nhcast.org for more information.

Funding for this event has been provided by Granite Recovery Centers and the Boys & Girls Club of Souhegan Valley.

We hope to see you there!

Monica Gallant

CAST coordinator