Florida Program Targets Substance Use in Young Adults

The transition from adolescence to adulthood often involves instability in housing, education, and employment, factors that heighten vulnerability to addiction. Foundations to Freedom designed this program to bridge the period when many individuals lose access to school-based support. By providing peer coaching, workforce development, and individualized case management, the organization seeks to foster long-term stability and self-sufficiency.

Volusia County continues to grapple with high rates of opioid and fentanyl-related overdoses, a trend that persists despite marginal statewide improvements. Data from the 2024 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey underscores the urgency, noting consistent usage of alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana among local students. Kayla Varvel and Zachary McCague will lead the rollout, coordinating with community partners to ensure participants receive wraparound care. CEO Katherine Russell emphasized that the initiative focuses on proactive investment to help young people build lives defined by resilience rather than addiction.