The City of Mesa has formed a partnership with The Be Kind People Project, a nonprofit organization, to develop educational materials aimed at preventing opioid and drug use among students in Mesa Public Schools and other local institutions. The initiative, titled “Be Aware. Be Strong. Be Healthy Mesa,” is funded through the city’s allocation from national opioid settlements.
Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman said, “This is a one-of-a-kind effort that invests in prevention by reaching children where they are. By building confidence and resiliency early, we are strengthening the foundation for a healthier and stronger Mesa for generations to come.”
To date, Mesa has received $4.7 million from national opioid settlements and expects to receive up to $22 million over 18 years. Earlier this year, the city launched a $1 million community grant program for nonprofits supporting prevention, intervention, and recovery services. More than 25 agencies applied for these grants; seven organizations were selected as recipients, including Jacob’s Hope, which provides care for newborns experiencing opioid withdrawal.
The city’s current focus with these funds is on prevention and education targeted at youth. The new educational campaign was created following direction from the City Council to complement existing community grant programs.
Marcia Meyer, Founder and CEO of The Be Kind People Project, stated: “The opioid epidemic continues to devastate families and communities throughout Arizona. Addressing it requires bold partnerships and innovative solutions. That’s why this collaboration is so powerful – together, we’re not just talking about prevention, we’re transforming it. By reaching children and families early with programs that build confidence, kindness and resilience, we’re equipping Mesa’s students to make safe, healthy choices and lead positive lives – in school and far beyond.”
Mesa Fire and Medical has responded to more than 960 suspected opioid overdose incidents involving youth since 2018. Data from the 2024 Arizona Youth Survey shows that over half of local teens do not recall seeing public messaging about fentanyl dangers; one-third have never discussed opioid risks with their parents or guardians.
Mesa Deputy City Manager Candace Cannistraro said: “The Council has been clear: the most powerful impact Mesa can make with these funds is to invest in our children. We know that prevention education plays a vital role in deterring early substance abuse. By working directly with schools, this program helps equip young people with the tools they need to make positive choices.”
The Be Kind People Project will collaborate closely with Mesa Public Schools to deliver evidence-based content designed for different age groups. The material will focus on fostering healthy habits as well as developing confidence and resilience—factors known to help prevent future substance use.
Renee Parker, Director of Community Partnerships for Mesa Public Schools commented: “We are deeply grateful to the City of Mesa for its continued support in helping our schools educate students about the serious dangers of opioid misuse. Through our partnership and the talent of The Be Kind People Project, we will be able to provide engaging public service announcements that resonate with students and encourage safe, informed choices.”
Mesa ranks as the second-largest recipient of opioid settlement funds within Maricopa County.
An official event welcoming The Be Kind People Project will take place on October 22 at 4:00 p.m., hosted at the Arizona Museum of Natural History.
