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This year was full of growth, impact, and youth-led achievements. In a year marked by both challenges and opportunities, Influence the Choice remained focused on what matters most: empowering youth, engaging our community, and advancing prevention efforts that create lasting change. Thanks to the commitment of students, staff, volunteers, and community partners, 2025 was a year of continued progress, meaningful connection, and youth-driven impact across our programs.  Youth Advocacy Day 2025 kicked off the year with a powerful example of youth-driven impact. On January 20th, students met directly with legislators to advocate for policies that better protect young people. One key topic was the significant tax disparity between cigarettes and other nicotine products, like vapes, that are more commonly used by youth. Students shared data and personal perspectives showing how this disparity was harmful to youth. Since then, WA state has taken action to subject nicotine products to the tobacco products tax, helping close a loophole that our TECH students helped bring to light (learn more about changes in state law around nicotine here). Art with Influence once again highlighted the creativity and insight of local students. Through 2D art and videos, youth explored themes of substance use prevention and mental well-being. The Art with Influence gala celebrated their work and reminded our community that prevention messaging is most powerful when it comes directly from young people. Check out the 2025 2025 Art with Influence video winners here. Our Resource Fair and Hidden in Plain Sight Event gave parents and caregivers a hands-on look at the potential subtle signs of substance misuse in teens. ITC delivered the Hidden in Plain Sight presentation alongside a resource fair featuring a dozen partner organizations, including Family Connection, Community Care, and Friends of Youth. Parents learned practical strategies to support their teens, connect with local resources, and stay informed about current trends in youth substance use. In 2026, we are offering an updated Hidden in Plain Sight curriculum. Learn more about how to bring this vital information to your community. TECH student involvement remained strong throughout the year, with students building leadership skills, supporting prevention efforts, and connecting with peers. Community-building events like the July skate park hangout gave students a fun space to connect, share ideas, and strengthen their networks. TECH clubs are now established at Skyline and Liberty High Schools, with Issaquah coming soon, expanding outreach and momentum even further. TECH students have been, and will continue to be, at the heart of ITC’s youth-led advocacy and peer leadership. The Action Forum for Youth brought students and community members together to learn, connect, and engage in meaningful dialogue. The forum opened with a foreword from Superintendent Tow-Yick, setting the stage for a collaborative conversation about youth well-being. ITC Executive Director Marnie Maraldo shared updated Healthy Youth Survey data, providing insight into current substance use trends within our community. Our student panel followed, offering real-life perspectives and experiences that deepened our understanding of substance use trends among ISD students. These discussions left participants informed and empowered to advocate for youth well-being in their schools and community. Our Drug Take Back Day & Food Drive demonstrated the power of community action. Together, participants safely turned in over 10 pounds of unused prescription medications and more than 70 pounds of food and toiletries to the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank, supporting both prevention and community well-being. In 2025, ITC engaged with the community at a variety of events, including farmers markets, National Night Out, the Issaquah Cultural Fest, and Salmon Days. At these events, we connected with community members through meaningful conversations and shed light on youth substance use in our community. You can plan to see us again at these events in 2026! Looking ahead, end-of-year planning is already in motion for next year’s programming, including Youth Advocacy Day, Power of Me, Power of We, and Art with Influence. We’re excited to build on this year’s momentum and look forward to continuing our work in youth substance use prevention and supporting the overall well-being of young people in our community in the new year.
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