In Commemoration of the Twentieth Anniversary of the Raymond Coalition for Youth
Floor Speech
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Mr. PAPPAS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate 20 years of operation of the Raymond Coalition for Youth (RCFY), one of my state's leaders in youth substance use prevention. Since 2002, RCFY has promoted positive youth development to reduce the risk of substance abuse and other risky behaviors. For the past 20 years, they have increased available substance use prevention resources and created impactful partnerships from the federal level on down. Today RCFY continues to address the urgent needs impacting the wellbeing for our children in the Granite State. By educating and nurturing our youth, they are ensuring our next generation grows up with the support and mentorship needed to live healthy fulfilling lives.
The Raymond Coalition for Youth was founded in response to the higher-than-state-average levels of substance misuse in the Town of Raymond. The University of New Hampshire kickstarted the data collection, community planning, and information sharing that culminated in this non-profit's eventual formation. Now, for the first time in 20 years, the Town of Raymond reported lower substance misuse than the State of New Hampshire average. In response to New Hampshire's addiction crisis, RCFY has proved an adamant reminder on the power of community in mitigating the harms of substance abuse and empowering our youth to lead healthy lives. Through student engagement, education, and advocacy RCFY has become a respected leader in the prevention space.
The Raymond Coalition for Youth is representative of the community's multi-pronged approach that must encompass all levels of government in keeping our neighborhoods safe. I am honored to issue sincere congratulations for the efforts of the dedicated staff and students involved in this prevention work. I am proud to represent the Raymond Coalition for Youth as today's changemakers in New Hampshire's First Congressional District.
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