In mid-August, three team members braved the heat of the Sonoran Desert to attend the 2024 National Prevention Network (NPN) Conference in Phoenix, Arizona. Representing the Resiliency Essentials Focus Area and Community Impact, they spent three days expanding their knowledge of prevention alongside like-minded professionals from across the nation. The conference centered on crucial themes such as equity, innovation, and the integration of research into practice.
Anticipating this conference all year, the team was eager to connect with leaders in the substance use prevention field, including coalition leaders, prevention specialists, researchers, and federal partners. The NPN Conference, one of the few events dedicated to prevention, has been a cornerstone of the field since 1988, attracting 700-1,000 participants annually. This year, NASADAD served as the host and sponsor, with the conference logo featuring a Saguaro Cactus against a blazing sun—a fitting symbol for the 100-degree temperatures the team endured.
Despite the challenging weather, the team returned energized and motivated, eager to share their experiences. Over three days, they participated in keynote sessions focused on the latest data trends related to Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) and substance use disorders, equity in prevention, and adolescent cannabis and tobacco use. Each day offered a variety of workshops and power sessions on diverse topics, and the team strategically divided their efforts to absorb as much information as possible, sharing insights during breaks. Colleagues back in Manchester could sense the team’s enthusiasm as they received a steady stream of emails filled with new ideas and discoveries from the workshops.
While the conference itself was a valuable experience, the team also made the most of their time in Phoenix. Evenings were spent exploring the local culture, landscape, and enjoying the resort’s amenities, which included a restaurant, Oasis Waterpark, and a golf course. Networking opportunities were not missed, even while floating in the lazy river.
Each morning began with a walk around the resort, passing the scenic golf course in the early hours, followed by coffee at the local café, and breakfast with fellow preventionists. These breakfasts were often shared with colleagues from New Hampshire, including representatives from the National Teen Institute and Franklin School District, and specialists from other states. The team forged strong connections with professionals from South Carolina, Michigan, Rhode Island, New York, and Maine.
If you haven’t already felt a touch of envy, just wait until you hear about the adventures the team embarked on after the conference. On day two, the group visited downtown Phoenix to explore the Desert Botanical Garden, where they learned about the unique flora of the Sonoran Desert, including the fascinating Saguaro Cactus—fun fact: this cactus is native only to the Sonoran Desert! On day three, they journeyed to Historic Old Town Scottsdale, celebrated for its Southwestern charm. Day four saw the team relaxing in the lazy river with colleagues from the Maine PTTC. On the final day, they headed north for a guided tour of Sedona, Arizona, renowned for its stunning red rock formations and mystical energy vortexes. These memorable experiences added a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making the trip not just professionally rewarding but personally enriching as well. Makin’ It Happen extends its sincere gratitude to NASADAD and the NPN planning committee for organizing such a memorable conference.
Written by Ashley Bachert | Community Impact Project Assistant | 8/26/2024
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