Announcements

Watch this page for announcements from other Athena Forum users.

ADAI publishes blog on Kratom and 7-OH

The University of Washington Addictions, Drug & Alcohol Institute (ADAI) has published a blog discussing kratom and 7-OH. 

Highlights include: 

Compounds in kratom, including 7-OH, are opioids that have been widely available and legal to purchase in most of Washington State. On August 26, 2026, the DEA made the sale and possession of three 7-OH related compounds by the general public illegal. These substances carry the risk of overdose, physical dependence, and… read more

WTSC Advisory Council Membership Opportunity – Trucking Safety and Education

The Washington Traffic Safety Commission is seeking a member of the general public to serve on the new Trucking Safety and Education Council (TSEC).

The council will bring together public and private partners to recommend programs and projects that improve commercial truck safety, training, compliance, research, and public education.

Applications are due October 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Applicants must submit an online application, three references, a resume, and a letter of… read more

A new Alcohol Policy Surveillance Platform is now available from the Alcohol Action Network

A new Alcohol Policy Surveillance Platform is now available from the Alcohol Action Network.

The interactive tool allows users to explore and compare state alcohol regulatory systems across licensing, enforcement, and adjudication, with comprehensive state profiles. The platform seeks to support those interested in understanding and engaging with alcohol and enforcement regulatory systems.

Explore… read more

YCCTPP Community and Priority Populations Grant Update

The Youth Cannabis and Commercial Tobacco Prevention Program (YCCTPP) is temporarily pausing the release of the Community and Priority Populations Grant. This allows us to incorporate more of your feedback, address state and federal funding changes, and any other issues or questions that arise. While we do not have a time frame for how long this pause will last, we do not expect it to be lengthy. 

We appreciate your partnership and support. 

If you… read more

New Funding Opportunity: Department of Health - YCCTPP Community and Priority Population Grant

New Funding Opportunity Department of Health - YCCTPP Community and Priority Population Grant

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) is excited to announce the Community and Priority Populations Grant. This funding opportunity is an expansion of our Youth Cannabis and Commercial Tobacco Prevention Program (YCCTPP). Awards will range from $50,000 - $611,325 annually.

YCCTPP addresses youth cannabis and commercial tobacco prevention through policy, systems, and environmental… read more

SUD Family Education Sessions by Washington State Community Connectors

Are you a parent, caregiver, or family member supporting a loved one impacted by addiction? Free Substance Use Disorder education sessions are available. This 8-week series covers practical skills from the CRAFT model, communication strategies, and guidance for navigating Washington's behavioral health systems. Presented by families, for families. 

Register today!

Overview:

This unique training provided by Washington State Community Connectors is specifically… read more

American Indian Health Commission 2026 Biennial Tribal and State Leaders Health Summit

Please join us for the AIHC Biennial Tribal and State Leaders Health Summit hosted by the Squaxin Island Tribe.

When: Monday September 14 - Friday September 18 Where: Little Creek Resort Register: Learn more and register.  

Hosted by Squaxin Island Tribe at Little Creek Casino Resort, this Summit brings together Tribal Leaders, State Legislators, Tribal and Urban Indian Health Organization staff members, state agency leadership and representatives, federal representatives, and… read more

Become a Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids Youth Ambassador

The Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids is recruiting Youth Ambassadors for the 2026-2027 program. Applications are due by August 31 at 8:59 p.m. Pacific. 

National Youth Ambassadors are high school and college students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership fighting tobacco in their communities. They're chosen annually as representatives of their state through a competitive application process. Ambassadors receive comprehensive training, participate in advocacy… read more

Call for Presentations: Protecting Our Children Conference

The Call for Presentations is now open for the National Indian Child Welfare Association's (NICWA) 45th Annual Protecting Our Children Conference, taking place April 4–7, 2027, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Learn more about this event. 

Presenters are the heart of NICWA's Protecting Our Children Conference. By sharing your knowledge, experience, and promising practices, you help strengthen Native child welfare programs and improve outcomes for Native children and families… read more

National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month is here

This month, SAMHSA is observing National Substance Use Primary Prevention Month. Throughout August, there are opportunities to connect prevention messaging with several key observances, including Back to School, National Night Out, International Youth Day, and Overdose Awareness Week.

SAMHSA is deeply committed to advancing substance use prevention efforts and advancing the Great American Recovery. By strengthening protective factors and reducing risk factors, prevention… read more