From essays and artwork to short videos, Ray County youth are being encouraged to use creativity to share personal perspectives on alcohol and drug prevention. The Ray County Coalition has launched a youth prevention essay, art and video contest, inviting students in grades 5-12 to reflect on one of two themes: “Why I choose to be free from alcohol and drugs” or “Why is alcohol and drug prevention important to me.” The contest is designed to elevate youth voices through creative expression while encouraging healthy decision-making and community-wide awareness around substance use. Ray County Coalition Chair Karen Schachtele explained the contest grew out of ongoing prevention education efforts and a desire to shift away from adult-led messaging and toward youth voices. “Ray County Coalition members collaborated to plan prevention education programs for Ray County youth,” said Schachtele. “We have adult messaging to youth throughout the year. We wanted to give youth in our community…