The Martinsburg Initiative (TMI) affiliate Drug-Free WV Coalition is composed of community organizations and leaders from Berkeley County, dedicated to understanding the impact of substance use disorder (SUD) on students, their families, schools, and the broader community. In addition to this, Youth Coalitions at two local high schools and two middle schools are providing opportunities for prevention education and peer support. These coalitions also foster student leadership and advocacy skills.
Founding Story
The coalition was founded by Karla Hillard, an English teacher personally affected by the opioid crisis, and Carol Hamilton, former assistant vice principal, with the vision of creating a supportive space where students could encourage their peers to avoid substance use.
The Martinsburg Initiative (TMI) Drug-Free WV Chapter is committed to fostering a healthier, drug-free community through engaging events, strategic meetings, and strong collaboration. The chapter works tirelessly to promote substance abuse prevention and support across Berkeley County, with a focus on community education, outreach, and safe practices.
Community Events
A major event attracting 250 attendees, focused on safe medication disposal and community action.
Supported the safe disposal of unused medications.
Reached out to health officials with essential resources, with 4 participants.
A holiday initiative that brought joy to over 700 children in 2024.
Monthly Meetings & Task Force Sessions
The chapter’s monthly and task force meetings are key to maintaining momentum and ensuring the continued success of the coalition. These gatherings offer opportunities for collaboration, strategic planning, and ongoing community engagement:
Monthly Meetings
- 13-Sep-23: 30 attendees
- 15-Nov-23: 30 attendees
- 17-Jan-24: 30 attendees
Task Force Meetings
- 18-Sep-24: 12 attendees
- 20-Sep-23: 16 attendees
- 29-Nov-23: 16 attendees
- 24-Jan-24: 16 attendees
Recognition and Impact
TMI and the Drug-Free WV Coalitions have earned recognition for their dedication to substance abuse prevention, including praise from Dr. Rahul Gupta, the director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy:
“The numbers have declined here in Berkeley County, so what the community is doing here can become the overall model for the state.”
The coalition’s efforts have had a tangible positive impact on the community, with Berkeley County experiencing a 25% decrease in overdose deaths during a 12-month period ending in September 2023. This success highlights the effectiveness of the coalition’s initiatives and the collective commitment to making a lasting difference.
WHAT IS A COALITION?
An alliance of individuals, groups, or organizations that come together to achieve a common goal.
PRIDE Survey in Berkeley County:
A Podcast
We’re diving into some eye-opening insights from the latest student survey. Sixth graders report low substance use rates and strong awareness of the risks, thanks to prevention efforts from parents, teachers, and peers. But with the average age of first use hovering around 10 years old, it’s clear those critical conversations need to start earlier than we think.
Risk and Protective Factors: A Podcast
Most students recognize the risks of substance use, and this awareness plays a key role in why very few engage in it, highlighting the importance of comprehensive education, strong parental disapproval, and addressing peer pressure to guide adolescents toward informed decision-making.
The Martinsburg Initiative Drug-Free WV Coalition depends on the support of its community partners.
Alcohol Task Force
Sticker Shock Program
Compliance Checks
Drunk Goggles
Education Activities at School
Prom Promise
Nicotine Task Force
Compliance Checks
Vape Detector Campaign
Posters and Flyers at School
Education Activities at School
Guest Speakers
Opioid/Prescription Drugs Task Force
Deterra Bag Distribution
Reference List for Healthcare Professionals
211 Flyer Distribution
Education Activities at School
Candlelight Vigil
Prom Promise
Marijuana Task Force
Positive Norms Campaign
Education Activities at School
Prom Promise
