In partnership with the Arizona Blue Foundation, CARAs de Esperanza II is an eight-week, school-based prevention program serving Latino students in grades 9–12. The program combines substance use education focused on opioid, methamphetamine, and prescription drug misuse with trauma-informed care, Rx360 strategies, and the Razalogía framework, a culturally rooted approach that strengthens identity, belonging, and resilience. Through intergenerational healing and community-centered learning, students explore culture, traditions, and positive identity as protective factors against substance use, isolation, and acculturation stress. CARAs de Esperanza II empowers youth with knowledge, cultural pride, and leadership skills to make healthier choices and envision hopeful, connected futures.
Latinos, Cultural Preservation, Intergenerational Education, Substance Abuse Prevention, Connecting to Opportunity, Community First, Data Informed, Activating Positive Change, Empowering, Education, Awareness, Healthy Communities