Above the Influence (ATI) Exhibit at Pawtucket City Hall
Pawtucket – The City of Pawtucket and The Blackstone Valley Prevention Coalition have announced the Above the Influence (ATI) & Creating Solutions for Independence (CSI) Art Exhibit, where teens have an opportunity to show off their artwork as they tackle challenges like alcohol, tobacco, drugs, violence, bullying, harmful social media, racial and religious bias, sex or gender identity bias, and mental health discrimination. The exhibit will remain open to the public in the City Hall Gallery on the first floor until the end of the year.
“These are amazing programs that teach our younger residents the importance of community bonding, and I fully support their incredible initiative.” said Mayor Grebien. “I would like to thank the Blackstone Valley Prevention Coalition, as well as Diane Dufresne, and Paris Fisher for all of their efforts to not only keep our youth safe, but to also provide them with a safe community to live and grow as individuals. All of their hard work truly shows in the art exhibit.”
Diane Dufresne, Director of the Pawtucket Prevention Coalition (part of the Regional Blackstone Valley Prevention Coalition) said, “It is so important for our youth to remain above the influence, whether it be from alcohol, drugs, bullying, or discrimination. They are our future, and we need to address the issues they face and to help them through the difficult times we currently live in. This exhibit is the result of learning self-empowerment and community bonding. Talent cultivation is a powerful medium to demonstrate to others that people need to care and be involved in order to make a difference.”
Above the Influence (ATI) is a nationally recognized program currently offered by the Blackstone Valley Prevention Coalition. In Pawtucket, the program is held at various sites throughout the city, most recently Blackstone Academy Charter School &The Pawtucket Library. The Creating Solutions For Independence Program (CSI) is offered on site at Galego Court & 560 Prospect.