a small group of Baltimore County school nurses, parents, teachers, and counselors from First Step met to discuss ways they could better meet the needs of the students, parents, and the community they serve. Their concerns focused around their desire to educate parents and youth about the danger and symptoms of drug and alcohol abuse, empower families to be proactive in their approach towards health, and give students the tools they will need to make responsible healthy decisions. This effort crystallized into the HELPS (Health Educators Linking Parents and Students) Coalition which over the years has sponsored events such as: Heartsaver CPR classes for parents and faculty members Active Parenting Classes for parents of children of all ages Expert guest speakers for parents and teachers. Topics addressed included childhood/adolescent depression and anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, sexuality issues, Internet safety, asbestos survey and substance abuse Student presentations by: Michael Pritchard – Comedic Educator, Spencer “Spinny†Johnson – former Harlem Globetrotter and Wayne Allen – Illusionist Recently our most successful youth event was held on Saturday, September 30th at the Marriott Hunt Valley Inn, “Rhythm Rivalry Youth Conference.†100 students ages 11-14 years came to hear a DEA agent, a comedian, a rock band, a group of rappers, and a youth counselor talk about choices, character, current drug trends, and even sing about life’s issues! We have many events already planned for the upcoming 2006-2007 school year! Members of the HELPS Coalition include the school nurses, parents, teachers and administrators of the following schools: Dulaney High Padonia Elementary Cockeysville Middle Pinewood Elementary Ridgely Middle Pot Spring Elementary Carroll Manor Elementary Sparks Elementary Jacksonville Elementary Warren Elementary Lutherville Elementary St. Joseph’s School – Cockeysville The following community organizations are also members of the HELPS Coalition: First Step Baltimore County Police: Community Outreach Baltimore County Health Department: Bureau of Substance Abuse Greetings & Readings WMAR/TV2 Current funding sources include: donations of in-kind meeting space, PTA donations, grant funding, volunteer hours, and business donations/discounts. As a coalition we thrive on the support of our parents, teachers, students, faculty, and community. We are forever grateful for their ongoing support in the past and look forward to working together towards our mission in the years ahead. Educate