This week Kiwanis member Matt Miller introduced Michael Schweinsberg with the OSU Extension office. Michael talked about the new program he has initiated called Generation Rx. He goes into the schools and talks with middle schoolers about prescription drug abuse and the awful effects. Many times, prescription pain meds are abused which can often lead to the use of heroin for a more extreme high. In fact, more people died of overdose than in car accidents last year alone. 1 in 7 kids have abused prescription drugs. Michael uses that statistic to bring awareness to adults, but when talking to kids he says, “1 in 7 kids abuse prescription drugs, but that means 6 kids aren’t.” Currently the program is being run off a grant that is quickly dwindling, so if any organization would like to support the Generation RX program, or be trained to present the program yourself, Michael is looking for funding help, as well as to raise awareness to the devastating epidemic. Prescription drug abuse is a real threat and can lead to the use of other drugs. Michael suggested locking up your prescription pain killers, storing them in a high place, and educating your children about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The Sheriff’s department accepts prescription drugs and incinerates them the proper way. Michael has a passion for helping children and wants to raise awareness county wide. Kiwanis members thank him for his dedication to our future.
