​This free online course teaches teens the dangers of substance use while helping them build wellness, communication, and critical thinking skills. In addition to being useful for all teens, this online program is a DESE-compliant alternative to school suspension for students caught with, at risk of, or suspected of substance use. < Back Online Diversion Program This free online course teaches teens the dangers of substance use while helping them build wellness, communication, and critical thinking skills. In addition to being useful for all teens, this online program is a DESE-compliant alternative to school suspension for students caught with, at risk of, or suspected of substance use. Graduates will receive a printable Certificate of Completion. Ages: 14–18 Date: Can start course on own schedule Time: Must be completed within a 6-hour timeframe once started. Location: Online Enroll About the Program “Up in Smoke” builds on the highly regarded “Why Try” and “Stanford Toolkit for Cannabis Use” curricula, guiding students in understanding how daily life informs their opportunities to seek freedom and self-respect. The program also addresses the impacts of substance use on the brain and body and builds systems for stress management and fostering a sense of belonging. According to Kelley, the coursework is designed to “give students a chance to think critically about the reasons behind why they are using substances, and to build tools they can use to cope with difficult situations in their life.” While traditional suspension isolates students and removes them from the learning process—both factors that increase risk of substance use—Up in Smoke is a positive behavioral intervention and trauma-sensitive approach with an emphasis on four target areas: mediation, restorative justice, conflict resolution and collaborative problem-solving. Alternative to Suspension : Instead of missing school, students engage in an online course that helps them understand the science of addiction, the impact of substances like nicotine and cannabis, and strategies for managing emotions and stress. Interactive Learning : The course includes self-reflection exercises and activities designed to help students make better decisions and build resilience. Research-Backed : Based on proven methods like the Stanford Toolkit and WhyTry, the program helps reduce substance use recidivism and aligns with DESE standards and Massachusetts state educational laws. Fully Accessible : Accessed asynchronously online, ensuring equitable access for all students. It also provides next-step resources to support students and families after completion. “Up in Smoke” arrives at a critical moment in Massachusetts, where legislation passed in 2022 calls on public schools to use alternatives to suspension as a first-line response to rule violations. The measure specifically requires consequences that “re-engage the student in the learning process.” “Up in Smoke” deeply supports Law C.71’s emphasis on positive behavioral intervention and trauma-sensitive learning through a focus on four target areas: mediation, restorative justice, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving. Contact SAFE at (508) 488-8105 or info@safecoalitionma.org for more information. Enroll Meet the Instructor Director of Adolescent Wellness Emma Kelley ekelley@safecoalitionma.org READ BIO Program Supported by The Bingham Trust

< Back Where We Serve SAFE currently serves 55 communities throughout Massachusetts. We have organized diversion programs in 19 schools and communities, conducted Narcan training sessions in 44 communities (6,000 Narcan doses distributed as of Feb. 27, 2025), and delivered public presentations in 31 communities. Would you like to see SAFE serve your community too? Let's get started today! Communities served by SAFE > Diversion Program Overview > Narcan Trainings Overview > Panels & Presentations Overview > Communities served by SAFE Attleboro Avon Bellingham Berkley Boston Braintree Bridgewater Canton Chelsea Concord Dedham DMH Central DMH Eastern DMH Western Dover Easton Fall River Fitchburg Foxborough Franklin Grafton Holbrook Holliston Holyoke Hopedale Hyannis Lexington Lowell Mansfield Martha's Vineyard Maynard Medfield Medway Middleborough Milford Millis Milton Needham Norfolk North Attleboro Norton Plainville Quincy Randolph Roslindale Sharon Sherborn Southbridge Upton Uxbridge Waltham Webster Winchester Worcester Wrentham Schools/Communities involved in the diversion program Bellingham Chelsea Easton Fall River Foxborough Franklin Hopedale Maynard Medfield Medway Milford Norfolk Norton North Attleboro Plainville Roslindale Sharon Uxbridge Wrentham Community Narcan Trainings 41 communities currently served & 6,000 Narcan doses distributed as of Feb. 27, 2025. In 2024, SAFE ordered the 2nd highest amount of Narcan in Norfolk County and is currently only 1 or 2 affiliates in Franklin supplying Narcan. Attleboro Avon Bellingham Berkley Boston Braintree Bridgewater Canton Concord Dedham Dover Easton Fall River Fitchburg Foxborough Franklin Grafton Holbrook Holliston Hyannis Lexington Lowell Mansfield Martha's Vineyard Maynard Medway Milford Millis Milton Needham Norfolk North Attleboro Norton Plainville Quincy Randolph Sharon Sherborn Uxbridge Webster Westwood Winchester Worcester Wrentham Communities where we have been on panels/presented Attleboro Avon Boston DMH Central DMH Eastern DMH Western Dover Easton Foxborough Franklin Grafton Holyoke Lexington Mansfield Maynard Medway Milford Millis Milton Norfolk North Attleboro Randolph Quincy Sherborn Southbridge Upton Uxbridge Waltham Webster Worcester Wrentham

< Back WhyTry Program Policy Handbook 25–26 Download Welcome to the WhyTry Program at SAFE Coalition. This handbook provides an overview of the policies and procedures that guide our program. SAFE is a judgment-free community organization relentlessly committed to educating and supporting those affected by mental health concerns and substance use across southeastern Massachusetts. WhyTry is an evidence-based, social-emotional program designed to help teens reframe life’s challenges into opportunities. Through hands-on lessons and activities, students build coping tools, strengthen decision-making, and learn strategies to navigate peer pressure, labels, and obstacles with confidence. Primary Objectives: The primary objectives of the WhyTry Program are to: Build Resilience: Teach students how to overcome setbacks and persevere through life’s challenges. Encourage Positive Decision-Making: Equip teens with tools to evaluate choices and consequences effectively. Promote Coping Skills: Introduce healthy strategies for managing stress, anxiety, and peer pressure. Foster Connection and Community: Create a supportive, judgment-free environment where students feel valued and respected. Empower Independence: Help participants recognize their strengths and move toward independence with confidence. Program Enrollment: Enrollment in the WhyTry Program includes the following steps: Referral: Students are referred to the program by school staff, administrators, or counselors. Guardians may also submit referrals. Sign-Up: Our front desk will contact families to complete enrollment, review program details, and answer questions. Agreement: A guardian must sign this policy handbook prior to the student’s attendance. Program Components: Each WhyTry session includes: Resilience Lessons: Evidence-based activities and metaphors that teach students to view challenges as opportunities. Coping Tools: Practical strategies to manage stress, regulate emotions, and respond to peer pressure. Skill Development: Exercises in decision-making, motivation, and building positive relationships. Community-Building: Group discussions and activities to promote respect, empathy, and accountability. Lunch Provided: SAFE will provide lunch for all participants. Participant Responsibilities: Students are expected to: Attend scheduled program days. Follow all program rules and expectations. Confidentiality: At SAFE Coalition, we value participant confidentiality. SAFE follows HIPAA guidelines and staff are mandated reporters, meaning we must report any suspected abuse or neglect to authorities. Data Collection and Reporting SAFE Coalition collects participation data and survey responses to better understand the impact of our programs and to continuously improve the services we provide. Purpose: The information helps us measure program effectiveness, improve existing services, and guide the creation of new programs. We may also create summaries to share with the community, funders, or researchers. Privacy: All information is confidential. Students are assigned a unique ID number so their names or other identifying details are never linked to their responses. Individual answers will not be shared with parents/guardians or the public. Voluntary Participation: Surveys are voluntary. Students may choose to skip any question or stop at any time without it affecting their participation in the program. Use of Information: Any information shared externally will be de-identified and reported in summary form only. SAFE is committed to creating a supportive and judgment-free environment, and the information collected is used only to strengthen our programs and ensure they are meeting the needs of teens and families in our community. Program Code of Conduct To ensure a safe, respectful, and trauma-informed environment, participants must follow these rules: Respectful Communication: Speak respectfully; disruptive or offensive behavior will not be tolerated. Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of others by keeping personal information shared in group discussions confidential. Attendance and Punctuality: Arrive on time and remain engaged throughout the day. Respect Property: Treat SAFE property and materials with care. Substance-Free Space: No possession or use of substances on SAFE property. Professional Boundaries: Maintain appropriate and respectful relationships with peers and facilitators. Prohibited Behaviors: Violence, bullying, sexual behavior, or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. Weather Protocol If local schools close due to inclement weather, WhyTry sessions will also be canceled. SAFE staff will remain on-site until all students are safely picked up or transported in the event of early dismissal. Transportation Protocol SAFE Coalition understands that transportation needs vary for each family and school district. The following outlines our transportation procedures: To Program: Students may be transported to SAFE Coalition by their school, a parent/guardian, Uber for Teens (with guardian permission), or by driving themselves (with guardian permission). From Program: Students may return to school via school transportation, Uber for Teens arranged by SAFE Coalition, or be picked up/driven home by a parent/guardian, or drive themselves (with guardian permission). Guardian Permission: A signed guardian release is required for students to participate in Uber for Teens transportation or to drive themselves. Lunch Protocol Lunch will be provided for all participants. Guardians must notify staff of any allergies or dietary restrictions prior to attendance. Contact Information: For more details about the program, please visit our "WhyTry" page at: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/whytryprogram. If you have additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at info@safecoalitionma.org or at 508-488-8105. Guardian Agreement and Signature By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and agree to the policies and procedures outlined in the WhyTry Program Policy Handbook. I give permission for my child to: Participate in the WhyTry Program at SAFE Coalition. Use transportation options as needed, which may include school-provided transportation, Uber for Teens arranged by SAFE, parent/guardian transport, or self-transport if applicable. Participate in SAFE Coalition’s program survey, understanding that it is voluntary, confidential, and may be ended at any time. I confirm that I have received, read, and understand the WhyTry program handbook. * First name* Last name* Email* Signature* Drawing mode selected. 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< Back Marketing Materials for the Tree of Life Fundraiser Thank you for your support in sharing our Tree of Life fundraiser. Our goal is to highlight the opportunity to purchase an engraved leaf, while also educating our community on the incredible range of services we offer to our community. Our hope is the resources below will make it easy and enjoyable for you to help inform your network and community of the opportunity to donate to this unique cause. If you have any questions, please let us know and we again thank you for your support. Sincerely, Community Relations/ Fundraising Committee Anne Bergen, Val Comerford and Mary Graham-Louise 10 (EASY!) WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT THE TREE OF LIFE FUNDRAISER 1. Hand out brochures (please let us know if you need more and we can send you some!) 2. Share a post on Facebook using our social media graphics and captions 3. Make an Instagram post 4. Share the video on social media or in an e-mail to friends or family 5. Share a story of how SAFE has impacted you and your life and share a link to the fundraiser 6. Highlight a newsworthy item from SAFE showcasing the great work we are doing in the community (links here ) and add a link to the fundraiser when sharing 7. Ask your faith-based community if they can include a write up about the fundraiser in their newsletter, or have it included in a weekly sermon 8. Reach out to one local business to ask if you can drop off brochures about the fundraiser or ask if they would be interested in donating a leaf 9. Speak to your hobby or interest clubs about pulling together funds to donate a leaf, or asking them to share the fundraiser with their network 10. Ask to share information at your workplace and create a display including brochures, leaving your contact information if anyone should have questions GRAPHICS TO USE Please click on image and right click on image to save and download. social media graphics 1/1 flyers VIDEO TO USE CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO SAMPLE CAPTION We are excited to share our latest fundraising initiative, designed to honor those we have lost and the courageous souls, who in their recovery, serve as beacons to those not quite there yet. Our tree, comprising of 156 engraved leaves, will serve as a visual reminder of the important mission of the SAFE Coalition. Your leaf can help us continue to support our community with programs like our Peer to Peer Program, our Vaping Cessation Program, Grief Counseling, Children Impacted by Substances Counseling, Learn to Cope Program, Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Support, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Narcan/CPR Training, Diaper Bank, 12 Step Meetings and so much more. A purchased leaf will help provide vital support for individuals and families faced with substance misuse and mental health challenges. Be a part of this special fundraiser and share in the celebration of life by visiting safecoalitionma.org/treeoflife and purchasing your leaf today.

Home > Contact Us Our Location We are in the Moseley Mill building. If you take the second driveway and follow the road towards the back of the building, you’ll see the SAFE sign above our front door. Click on image to view the video Address 31 Hayward Street, Suite 2C Franklin, MA 02038 Phone (508) 488-8105 Mailing Address (for donations) PO Box 434 Franklin, MA 02038 Email info@safecoalitionma.org Get In Touch First Name Last Name Email Message Send Thank you for your message! We will get back with you within 1 business day.

< Back Franklin Housing Insurance Schedule a Housing Support Consult SAFE has a committed and multilingual staff with expertise in mental health, benefits development, sustained housing planning, and extensive experience with local and state systems of support. We are trained and certified in trauma-informed approaches and are a local leader in collaborative care. At SAFE, we are proud to have worked within the judicial, housing, and state mental health programs, which increase opportunities for well-rounded care for Franklin residents. We believe that partnering and working together with other systems of care offers the greatest opportunity for success to those we support. So often, those looking for housing either lack stable support or are in a financial position where they may soon lose their housing. With ARPA funding, we are excited to offer a variety of approaches. This funding allows one-on-one housing planning with our case manager to help clients complete local, state, and federal paperwork associated with short- and long-term housing needs. It also provides for emergency placements when needed and access to information about available housing support and how to utilize it. What we offer: Housing Benefits Planning: Assistance with housing paperwork, applications, and benefits care Medical and Social Security Benefits Planning: Help with health insurance, SSI, and SSDI applications Housing Court Advocacy Clinical and Social Work Care Wellness Checks and Safety Planning Emergency Shelter Coordination Transportation to Shelters SMOC Referrals Care Items: Clothing, outdoor apparel, and hygiene supplies Schedule a Housing Support Consult

Thank you to James and his support network for raising awareness about mental health and raising critical funds to benefit SAFE. While this campaign is closed , we encourage you to discover others ways to get involved and support SAFE. If you are looking to host your own fundraising event or campaign, please contact us at info@safecoalitionma.org 100 Miles for Mental Health: James Flannery Wilderness Run Fundraiser for SAFE The Challenge Run the Hundred Mile Wilderness route in one continuous effort Push boundaries of what's possible Raise awareness and funds for mental health support The Rules Complete self-support (no outside assistance) Start with everything needed for the entire route Finish with everything started with (minus consumed food) One continuous effort from start to finish The Route Location : Central Maine Trail : Northernmost section of the Appalachian Trail Start : Abol Bridge Finish : Greenville Road Junction Direction : Southbound Start date: June 20, 2025 Meet James Flannery James's athletic journey spans decades, from team sports in high school to conquering Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks. His most notable early achievement? "Bandit" running the Boston Marathon twice with friends in 2007 and 2009—with no training. Athletic Milestones 2015: Thru-hiked Vermont's Long Trail (600+ miles total, north and back south) 2018: Began focused running training in Golden, Colorado 2021: Completed first ultramarathon (32 miles) Present: Training for the ultimate 100-mile challenge From hockey and baseball fields to rock climbing walls, from Colorado's mountain peaks to Vermont's Green Mountains, James has always sought the next challenge. The two Boston Marathons remained his longest single-effort distances for years—until he decided to systematically pursue ultramarathons. Age : 34 Hometown : Franklin, Massachusetts Background : Lifelong athlete and outdoor enthusiast Instagram: @famous_seamus Raising Mental Health Awareness + Supporting SAFE "Over the course of my life, especially as a young adult, I have struggled to maintain balance in terms of my mental health, and my personal relationships have suffered as a result. Pursuing athletic challenges has always been one coping mechanism I employed to keep the mental and emotional struggles in check. I have always drawn inspiration from others sharing their own stories of struggle and perseverance, and that is the part I would like to lean into with this endeavor." The 100-mile challenge represents more than endurance—it's about: Breaking personal barriers that seemed impossible Sharing stories of struggle and perseverance Supporting others through Safe Coalition Stepping into vulnerability by making this journey public Why SAFE? James has chosen to support SAFE because he believes in the power of shared stories and community support. Having drawn inspiration from others who've shared their struggles, he wants to pay that forward while pushing himself beyond his comfort zone—not just physically, but emotionally and socially. Show your support for James: Donate to SAFE For James, raising funds isn't just about giving back—it's deeply personal. "I am raising money for SAFE because they are helping young folks find their way in this world with education and community support," he shares. "If not for athletics, I may have leaned harder on various substances to numb my feelings of hopelessness and existential dread." James knows he's one of the lucky ones who found a healthy outlet, but he also knows that not everyone has that same lifeline. "Not everyone has athletics to fall back on to manage their mental health challenges, and SAFE is a place where these folks can go for guidance and support." About SAFE SAFE offers judgement-free support for individuals impacted by substance use, mental health challenges, and related concerns. We serve over 55 communities in Massachusetts with programs for teens, support groups, harm reduction education, resources for families in need like a community diaper bank, housing support, and more. Thanks to generous donors like you, our services are FREE for our clients--no insurance needed.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Date : Saturday, Oct. 25 Time : 10 a.m. to noon Locations : Franklin, SAFE Office Medway Town Hall Norfolk Police Department Wrentham Fire Department (Open House) Millis Fire Department Most of us have a drawer or cabinet somewhere with old medications we're not sure what to do with. But keeping unused or expired prescriptions around isn't just clutter–it can be dangerous. Kids, pets, or other family members could accidentally get into them, and flushing old meds down the toilet might seem like an easy solution, but it can contaminate our water supply and harm fish and other wildlife. Instead, safely dispose of medications at SAFE’s drive-thru disposal stations, part of the DEA’s National Take Back Day. It's completely free, totally anonymous, and you don't even have to get out of your car! What can you bring? Any medication you want to get rid of—over-the-counter pills, prescription medications (yes, including opioids), and even liquids and creams. No questions asked, no judgment, just safe disposal. We CANNOT accept sharps/syringes. Supported by Opioid Abatement Funds from the Towns of Franklin, Norfolk, Medway, Millis, and Wrentham. No events at the moment

< Back Stephanie Nunes Harm Reduction Clinician snunes@safecoalitionma.org Bio coming soon!

Free Summer Programs for Teens Programs in Franklin July 9–Aug. 13, 2025 At the SAFE Office Drop-in Cafe Wednesdays 2–4 p.m. A judgement free, safe space for teens to hang out this the summer and build community. Snacks, beverages provided. Teen Mentorship Wednesdays 2–4 p.m. Mentorship helps teens develop a deeper understandings of themselves, expand their wellness toolbox, learn how to foster responsible decision making, and build a supportive network of peers. This program integrates proven strategies to help participants build resilience, self-confidence, and adaptability. Registration Required Resources include: Guest speakers, workshops, guided discussions, and activities in a safe and fun space Skills for managing stress, uncomfortable feelings, and navigating peer pressure Tools for building and maintaining healthy relationships and friendships Strategies for handling home and family challenges Support with managing schoolwork and adapting to new environments Development of personal responsibility and self-advocacy skills Supportive peer network and community connections Program in Wrentham WhyTry Teen Wellness Class Tuesdays 2–4 p.m. A safe, judgment-free space for Norfolk, Plainville, and Wrentham teens to build resiliency and learn life skills Details: Ages: 14–18 (KP students) Dates: Tuesdays, July 8 – August 12 Times: Middle schoolers 2–3 p.m. High schoolers 3–4 p.m. Location: Bumblebee Farm (461 Hancock St, Wrentham) This evidence-based mentorship program helps teens build resiliency, develop responsible decision-making skills, and establish healthy relationships. Participants will: Set personal goals and reflect on decision-making Experience substance use awareness activities (including Fatal Vision goggles) Learn stress management and relationship-building skills Build strategies for handling challenges Strengthen confidence and resiliency Enjoy games, snacks, and more! Registration Required Register for Teen Mentorship at SAFE - Franklin Register for Teen Mentorship at SAFE - Wrentham

< Back WhyTry Program Ages: 14–18 Date: Wednesdays (3–4 classes/month) Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Location: SAFE Office, 31 Hayward Street, Suite 2C, Franklin, MA 02038 Target Audience: This is a prevention program for any youth open to learning about decision-making and building personal resiliency. Breakfast, snacks, and lunch are provided. Refer a Student Enrollment in the WhyTry Program includes the following steps: Referral: Students can be referred to the program by teachers, administrators, or counselors at the school. Guardians may also submit referrals. Refer a student. Enrollment: Once a referral form is submitted, SAFE staff will contact the youth’s guardian to complete the necessary paperwork and enroll them in the next available class. About the Program: WhyTry is an organization that helps individuals develop resilience. The WhyTry school curriculum provides students with resources to build essential skills and knowledge, such as problem-solving, handling adversity, fostering resilience, building relationships, and increasing motivation for success. These skills are taught using practical, evidence-based tools designed to engage students in a way they can understand and remember. What do we mean by resilience? Simply put, resilience is the ability to develop skills and strategies that tap into various sources of strength, allowing young people to bounce back and thrive in the face of challenges. The WhyTry Curriculum: WhyTry helps participants develop a greater appreciation for their relationships with family, friends, teachers, and counselors. It also fosters increased motivation toward responsibility, goal-setting, and maintaining a positive attitude while working toward those goals. 10 WhyTry Learning Units: The WhyTry curriculum consists of ten units, each titled after a visual metaphor that helps participants understand the topic. During your time at SAFE, we will cover 4 of the 10 units to best fit your needs. Refer a Student Meet the Instructor Director of Adolescent Wellness Emma Kelley ekelley@safecoalitionma.org READ BIO