West Chester, Pa (December 11, 2024) – State Senator Carolyn Comitta secured $25,000 in state funding to support Communities that Care of Greater Downingtown (CTC), a nonprofit organization that fosters positive mental health and youth development.
The funds, awarded through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, will support CTC’s development, public outreach, and communication efforts, as well as its HYPE (Health Youth Positive Energy) clubs at local schools.
“Communities That Care of Greater Downingtown is grateful to Senator Carolyn Comitta for her partnership and assistance in securing funding for CTC to continue providing prevention programs in the Downingtown community. Senator Comitta’s commitment to healthy communities and youth is critical in our mission to prevent substance abuse, promote mental health, and empower youth to make positive choices,” said Bethann Cinelli, D.ED., CTC Executive Director.
“As someone who grew up in Downingtown and attended Downingtown High School, I am grateful for the work that Communities That Care is doing to support, educate, and inspire young people to make healthy choices that lead to success in school and life,” said Comitta, who serves on both the Senate Education Committee and the Aging and Youth Committee. “I want to thank CTC staff, volunteers, supporters, and all the students working to support each other through its invaluable programs.”
With nearly 80 active members, HYPE students are working to create and promote healthy school communities through advocacy and leadership to prevent substance use and promote positive mental and emotional well-being. They raise awareness and engage youth in prevention initiatives through peer-to-peer messaging, sharing youth perspectives, social media, and sending consistent messages about the power of healthy choices.
HYPE student clubs currently operate with the guidance of dedicated faculty mentors at six Downingtown Area School District schools: the Marsh Creek 6th Grade Center, Lionville Middle School, Downingtown Middle School, Downingtown West High School, Downingtown East High School and the STEM Academy.
CTC is a coalition of organizations, businesses, schools, faith communities, law enforcement and healthcare providers that use evidence-based prevention programs and policies to create a safer, supportive community for youth and strengthen community collaboration in prevention efforts.
For more information about CTC or information on starting a HYPE club at your school, visit www.dtownctc.org
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