Henrico groups, youth leaders to host 'Above the Influence' marijuana prevention event May 13

Several Henrico County organizations are partnering with youth leaders to host "Above the Influence," an event designed to address marijuana use prevention and youth mental health May 13 in Highland Springs.

The event, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Oak Avenue Complex, will bring together middle and high school students, parents, caregivers, and community members for an evening of conversation, followed by an interactive game during which families will have a chance to earn up to $300 in prizes. 

The Henrico Youth Ambassadors Street Team are helping spearhead the event, with support from the Empower Henrico Taskforce, which includes Henrico Prevention Services, the Henrico Too Smart 2 Start Coalition, Henrico Fire Department, and Henrico Human Services.

“Above the Influence is more than an event… it is a movement led by young people who are using their voices to challenge myths, protect mental health, and help build a stronger future for themselves and their peers,” said event organizers.

The event will include:

• a youth-led REAL TALK panel discussion;
• a ThinkFast interactive live experience;
• free dinner;
• a calming space for youth;
• giveaways and prevention resource bags.

The event is free; community members are encouraged to register at qrco.de/bgkRsk.