< Back Jennifer Knight-Levine CEO | Co-Founder Jknight-levine@safecoalitionma.org I am a graduate of both Franklin High School and Framingham State University and began my career in the field of mental health in 2008. Starting in Massachusetts, I worked with adults in recovery from mental illness and later worked with adolescents in the foster care system in southern California. During my time in California my work primarily focused on implementing a groundbreaking three-year health and wellness state research contract dedicated to developing alternative holistic therapies to encourage behavioral and emotional self-regulation, increasing family relationships, and decreasing the use of psychotropic medication. In 2014, I began a doctoral program at Pacifica Graduate Institute in Depth Psychology with an emphasis on Community, Liberation, and Eco-psychology. Upon moving back to Massachusetts, I returned to working with adults in recovery and am dedicated to supporting those in the community who are affected by opioid addiction. As a Franklin Girls Ice Hockey alumni, I am an avid Bruins fan, an enthusiast of the mountains, and a lover of country music.

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.

< Back Hidden in Plain Sight A mock teen bedroom highlights for parents and caregivers what to look for. Date: Per request Time: Per request Details: Email to book: info@safecoalitionma.org Price: $150.00/hour Our mock teen bedroom provides parents and caregivers with insights into current trends related to adolescent substance use and highlights what to look for. It also offers guidance on how to have conversations with your teen if you are concerned.

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< 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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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 6-Week Series Thursdays Time 6:00–7:30 p.m. 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 week, we'll gather for 90 minutes of guided discussion, skill-building, and peer support. Topics are shaped by what the group needs most—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 weeks you might need to vent; other weeks you might just want to listen. Both are welcome. 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.

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Join SAFE Coalition Saturday, June 7, for a free concert featuring the incredible Zajac Brothers Band—a 6-piece powerhouse known for their modern vintage sound and high-energy performances. From soulful jams to reimagined classics, these guys know how to light up the stage! Event Postponed! Subscribe to our mailing list to hear first when we announce the new date.

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< Back The Trickle Up Effect How to build inclusive environments to facilitate thriving students, clients, & colleagues through understanding gender identity & sexuality. Date: Per Request Time: Per Request Details: Email to book: info@safecoalitionma.org Price: Reach out for pricing. About the Program: How to Build Inclusive Environments to Facilitate Thriving Students, Clients, and Colleagues Through Understanding Gender Identity and Sexuality Meet the Instructor: Graduate Intern Oomiya Kawas okawas@safecoalitionma.org READ BIO

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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