Search this site

< Back Intern with SAFE Interns are an essential part of SAFE’s mission. By contributing their skills, creativity, and passion, interns help us expand our reach and deepen our impact. SAFE welcomes interns in many areas of our work. We provide both in-person and remote opportunities and tailor roles to align with each student’s academic goals, career interests, and skill development. Details Fall Semester: Apply by July 31 Spring Semester: Apply by October 31 We recommend applying at least one month before the semester begins to allow time for meetings and paperwork. Open to high school and college students over the age of 18. Benefits for Interns Internships are flexible and tailored to student needs, with schedules designed to meet school requirements. Interns gain hands-on nonprofit experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities, with the option to earn academic credit. Completed internships strengthen resumes and include letters of recommendation to support future goals. Relevant Fields of Study include: Education Sociology Psychology Human Services Public Health Counseling Social Work Communications & Design Marketing Fundraising & Development Examples of Internship Roles Graphic design & digital media Social media management & content creation Communications, writing, and copy editing Community outreach & event support Assisting with educational programming Research & program evaluation Public health training (e.g., Narcan education, harm reduction awareness) Fundraising & nonprofit development strategies Apply for an Internship

Avon Community Survey: Opioid Abatement Funds AVON RESIDENTS: We want to hear from you! Zoom Community Listening Session Tuesday, June 24 6 p.m. Register Anonymous Online Survey Begin Survey Participate in Avon’s Opioid Abatement Fund Utilization survey and listening sessions to provide crucial input on how to spend the town’s opioid abatement funds. Listening Sessions In person : Tuesday, June 17, 6 p.m. Town Hall (Mary McDermott Room) – no registration required Online : Tuesday, June 24, 6 p.m. via Zoom – registration required Online survey Begin survey Takes less than 10 minutes Completely anonymous In partnership with the Town of Avon . Send questions to Dr. Stephanie Heath, sheath@safecoalitionma.org

Our Approach Adolescent Wellness Education, prevention, and intervention services for teens and caregivers Family Recovery Center Support groups, workshops, & events tailored to those impacted by a loved one’s substance use, mental health, & related challenges Collaborative Care Resources, training, and support services, including Narcan training, diaper and car seat assistance, housing and employment support, and inclusive education

Teen substance use diversion Up in Smoke When a student gets in trouble for substance use, suspension sends them home alone with the problem. Up In Smoke does the opposite. Refer a student What's included Small groups, trained staff Lunch and snacks daily Transportation support Additional resources for student & family Ages: 14–18 Time : 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Format : 3-day program, Tu–Th Location : Adolescent Wellness Center, Franklin Cost : Free How Enrollment Works 1 Referral School staff or a guardian submits the referral form 2 Sign-up SAFE contacts referent to complete enrollment 3 Agreement Guardian reviews and signs policy handbook 2026–27 session dates Sessions run Tuesday–Thursday most weeks, from September 15, 2026, through the week of June 29, 2027. The three days DAY ONE: Restorative justice Trusted adults, values, taking responsibility DAY TWO: Substance use education Addiction, triggers, the developing brain, harm reduction DAY THREE: Building better coping tools Motivation, your toolkit, an action plan Meeting Massachusetts requirements Under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾, schools generally may not suspend a student until alternative remedies have been employed and documented. Up In Smoke was built around all four the law names—and every student's participation is documented for your records. Mikaela Weinstein Diversion Clinician mweinstein@safecoalitionma.org Mikaela holds a Master's in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Saint Anselm College, along with a B.A. in Social Work and minors in Criminal Justice and Sociology. She brings a background across juvenile court diversion, crisis intervention, and restorative justice to every group she leads. Meet the Instructor Refer a Student Form not loading. Load form in a new window. Program Supported by: The Bingham Trust

< Back Play Video Play Video 02:58 Lindsay Semas Play Video Play Video 01:39 Hidden In Plain Sight Play Video Play Video 02:11 Botera | Chyenne Bessette Play Video Play Video 10:05 Narcan Training Play Video Play Video 02:44 Jim Derick Play Video Play Video 02:30 Jack Flynn SAFE Coalition MA SAFE Coalition MA Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing Woody Geissmann Founder, Right Turn Treatment Center 44:01 Play Video Now Playing #2069 Campaign - Reverend Ron Tibbetts 09:06 Play Video Now Playing SAFE BethWatts 061517 26:19 Play Video

< 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.

< Back Help Us Make a Difference: Join the Safety Net Society Today Did you know that monthly giving is one of the most important ways to sustain our programs every day of the year? It's also a more convenient way to make a bigger impact over time. We invite you to join our monthly giving club, the Safety Net Society, where your gift has the power to make a big impact. When you become a member of the Safety Net Society , you’ll join a dedicated group of supporters that provide a steady and reliable source of funding to help SAFE bridge the gap in mental health and substance abuse disorder care. Your monthly donation will help us expand our efforts and save more lives in our community. Join the Safety Net Society Today! Why Give Monthly? Monthly donations provide continuous support that our community members can count on. Sustaining gifts allow us to take action now and plan for the future. We’re expanding our reach, our programs, and our impact. Your gift makes a difference. Set the amount and go. No gift is too small to make a difference. Join the Safety Net Society Today!

SAFE offers two-tiered programming for municipalities on how to use Opioid Abatement Funds in Massachusetts. Opioid Abatement Programming for Municipalities SAFE offers two-tiered programming to support municipalities in their Opioid Abatement Funds spending. Tier 1: 90-day Community Engagement Assessment The 90-day Community Engagement Assessment offers a view of the current impacts of the opioid epidemic in your town and helps us to evaluate the readiness of residents and town leadership in implementing opioid abatement fund-related programming. This assessment includes Community survey: Our team will develop an online community survey that is specific to your town’s needs and concerns Stakeholder listening session: SAFE staff will engage all key stakeholders in your town, including police & fire chiefs, public health officials and town leadership to understand the needs of the residents. Community listening sessions: SAFE staff will facilitate up to three community listening sessions to gather direct feed back from residents about opioid funds utilization. Comprehensive Report with Data-Informed Recommendations: SAFE will provide a comprehensive report of survey & listening session results. We also provide recommendations for the town based on the results of the assessment. Tier 2: Comprehensive Opioid Use Prevention and Treatment Programming SAFE offers programming that aligns with all seven strategies established in the state’s Municipal Use of Abatement Funds. All of these services are provided at zero-cost to community members. Programming options include Opioid use disorder treatment Coordination of referrals and resources through existing partnerships with Wayside Youth & Family Support Network, Turning Point Recovery Support Center, Learn to Cope, Hockomock Area YMCA, and Norfolk County Sheriff’s Office Completion of intakes with individuals in crisis and referrals directly to the most appropriate agency. Support for people in treatment and recovery Grief counseling for families affected by opioid use disorder and 90-day support plan development to provide immediate support and care during times of crisis (e.g., overdose in the family, family member leaves for residential treatment, or family member engaged in Section 35 commitment) Connections to care Up in Smoke - A teen substance use suspension diversion program available to high school students Families Anonymous - A 12-step program for family members impacted by their loved one's substance use or mental health concerns. SAFE presence at community events Harm reduction Biannual medication take-back events, for which SAFE is independently licensed Monthly Narcan trainings and distribution in your community Restorative justice SAFE staff develops 90-day wraparound support plans for individuals referred to us, including those who are involved with or recently released from the criminal- justice system. Support for pregnant and parenting women and their families Postpartum Support Group is open to all pregnant and postpartum community members, including those with mental health and/or substance use concerns. Community diaper bank Preventative education of opioid misuse Partnership with Why Try, a 10-week evidence-based social-emotional education program for high school students, and can launch the program in your town. Peer-to-Peer program, which serves teens in recovery using WhyTry and WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan). Hidden in Plain Sight - an interactive display that educates parents on signs of drug use and/or mental health concerns in their children.

Connect with other parents navigating special education. Get practical strategies, emotional support, and resources tailored to your family's needs. IEP/504 Caregiver Support Group Connect with other parents navigating special education. Get practical strategies, emotional support, and resources tailored to your family's needs. Register Time 6:00–7:30 p.m. Thursdays Aug. 20: Kickoff - Prepare to advocate for your child Sept. 10: IEP/504 form walkthrough Sept. 24: Understanding the assessment process for IEP/504s Oct. 8: Mock IEP meeting Oct. 29: Identifying helpful accommodations, data tracking at home Location SAFE Coalition Franklin Who this group is for This group is for parents, grandparents, foster parents, and caregivers of children who have: An IEP (Individualized Education Program) A 504 plan Learning differences or developmental needs and/or Health-related diagnoses affecting school Whether your child is in elementary school, middle school, or high school—and whether you're brand new to special education or years into the journey—you're welcome here! Benefits of Joining Connection with people who get it Meet other caregivers facing the same challenges—no need to explain what an IEP meeting feels like or why you're exhausted. Practical advocacy strategies Learn how to communicate effectively with schools, understand your rights, and prepare for meetings with confidence. Resources you can actually use Get curated tools for organizing documentation, tracking goals, and navigating school systems—not a generic brochure. A space to breathe Caregiving is hard. This is a judgment-free space to share what's working, what's not, and feel supported along the way. What to Expect Each session, we'll gather for 90 minutes of guided discussion, skill-building, peer support, and knowledgeable guest speakers. You're not sitting through a lecture. This is a conversation. You can share as much or as little as you're comfortable with. Some sessions you might need to vent, other sessions you might just want to listen. Both are welcome. Topics are created and will be adjusted to meet the groups needs as we move through the school year. Karen has spent her career supporting children and families, including 11 years as a foster parent, work as a Family Liaison with MSPCC, and co-facilitating foster parent licensing training. She holds a master's in social work and has provided in-home therapy and behavioral health services to individuals and families. She brings warmth, lived experience, and deep expertise to every group she facilitates. Meet the Facilitator Karen Bean Registration Form Form not loading? Open in a new browser.

Postpartum Support Groups North Attleborough Time : Mondays 10:00–11:30 a.m. Location: N. Attleboro YMCA REGISTER Franklin Time : Wednesdays Noon to 1:30 p.m. Location: Bernon Family Branch YMCA REGISTER Are you a new or expectant mom? This group is for you! Receive peer support in a welcoming and compassionate space. You’ll learn coping skills to manage tough moments and connect with others who truly understand. Each week we will touch on different topics such as Motherhood Myths Identity & Values Self-care Thoughts Self-esteem Art & Creativity Hosted by SAFE and the Hockomock YMCA

< Back WhyTry Program Policy Handbook 26–27 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. Media Release SAFE Coalition may photograph, film, and record participants during program activities and may use those materials in SAFE's marketing and communications, including social media, newsletters, our website, and grant reporting. No compensation is provided for the use of these materials, and this applies to current and future use of materials created during SAFE programs. Photos, video, and recordings will not identify participants as taking part in a diversion program; they are used only to highlight community collaboration. To opt out, email info@safecoalitionma.org Opting out will not affect a student's participation in the program. 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. Drawing requires a mouse or touchpad. For keyboard accessibility, select Type or Upload. Submit