Prevention of Cannabis Use Among Hispanic Youth: A Call to Action from Nassau County

With the legalization of cannabis in New York State—including its sale for recreational use—new concerns have emerged, especially within the Hispanic community of Nassau County. Now more than ever, it is essential to speak openly about this topic, separate myths from facts, and protect our youth. Education, communication, and community unity are key to helping them make informed and responsible decisions.

Why Is This Important?

In Nassau County, access to and exposure to cannabis have increased since legalization. Although the law prohibits its sale to anyone under 21, the growing presence of dispensaries and cannabis-related products has led to greater normalization. This can create confusion for both teenagers and parents.

A Youth Development Survey (YDS) from 2021–22 in Nassau County collected information from 93,774 students in grades 7 through 12. Among the data were the percentages of students who reported using marijuana in the past 30 days. Source: Long Island Prevention Resource Center. “Nassau County New York 2021-2022 Youth Development Survey (YDS) – Marijuana Quick Look.”

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, early cannabis use is associated with disruptions in brain development, memory difficulties, and a higher risk of mental health disorders—especially during adolescence, a critical stage for physical, emotional, and cognitive growth.

What Can We Do as a Community?

EDUCATE

Get informed using reliable sources: Learn about the effects of cannabis on the teenage brain, warning signs, and local laws such as the Social Host Law in Nassau County, NY.

Strengthen knowledge at home: Share information with other adults in the household so everyone is on the same page about how to prevent and respond to situations involving substance use.

Seek professional support when needed: Speaking with school counselors, mental health professionals, or community centers can provide specialized guidance.

COMMUNICATE

Talk openly and without judgment: Have conversations with your children about risks, consequences, and peer pressure. Listening with calmness and respect helps build trust.

Break myths and stigma: Talking about cannabis does not normalize or encourage its use; on the contrary, it provides tools to prevent it.

Promote positive alternatives: Encourage participation in sports, art, music, recreational activities, and volunteer work to reinforce self-esteem, social skills, and resilience.

Model healthy behaviors: Young people learn by observing. Maintaining healthy habits and communicating clear boundaries has a direct impact on their decisions.

PARTICIPATE

Get actively involved: Attend parent workshops, school meetings, community forums, and educational events where you can learn, ask questions, and connect with other families.

Collaborate with local organizations: Join coalitions, prevention programs, and community groups working to reduce substance use among youth.

Support schools and youth spaces: Promote extracurricular activities, school clubs, and mentoring programs that offer safe and healthy alternatives.

Promote safe policies and environments: Participate in public hearings, support regulations that protect youth, and encourage substance-free spaces in your neighborhood.

Share reliable resources: Spread verified information through social media, community groups, or school newsletters so more families have access to prevention education.

Our Commitment at HAP

At the Hispanic Alliance for Prevention (HAP), we are committed to addressing these challenges through:

• Educational workshops and community presentations

• Resources in Spanish

• Partnerships with schools, churches, and local organizations

• Advocacy for local public policies that protect youth from substance use

Our mission is clear: to protect the health and future of Hispanic youth by providing effective resources that help reduce risk factors associated with substance use among youth ages 12 to 17 in Nassau County, NY. This work is done through a collaborative effort led by YES Community Counseling Center, in partnership with the Hispanic Counseling Center (HCC), and supported by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS).

Prevention is not the responsibility of one person—it is a collective effort. Only by working together as a community can we face this new reality that directly affects our young people. Prevention begins at home, grows in the community, and strengthens when we move forward united.

Join Us: Be part of the change. Call us at 516-719-0313 ext. 225, email hap@yesccc.org, or visit www.hapcoalitionny.org.