WPC honors local prevention champions and unsung heroes at Annual Meeting

The Woonsocket Prevention Coalition (WPC) recently celebrated its twenty-seventh Annual Meeting at Ciro’s Tavern on Cherry in Woonsocket with colleagues and community partners throughout greater Woonsocket.  The WPC honored The Autumnfest Committee with its Annual Prevention Award for making three areas of Autumnfest smoke-free.  For the First time, the WPC also recognized three individuals, Yvette Ayotte, Tom Brien and Jeffrey Gamache, with “Unsung Community Heroes” awards for their contribution to making Woonsocket safe and healthy for our youth and families.  Mayor Leo Fontaine was in attendance to assist with award presentation.

Ms. Bridget Bennett, and Chairperson of the WPC Board of Directors and Vice President of Children’s Behavioral Health at NRI Community Services  opened the Annual Meeting by recognizing those dignitaries and community members in attendance.  Assisting Ms. Bennett in the meeting was Lisa Carcifero, Executive Director. The slate of officers were presented and unanimously approved:  Chairperson, Bridget Bennett-Lewis; Vice Chairperson, Gina Savini, Secretary, Capt. Ed Lee; and Treasurer, Ben Washington.

 In addition to the Executive Committee, the Board of Directors for the 2013-2014 year were recognized and thanked for their commitment to the WPC mission.  The WPC Board members are:  Unique Batista, Student, Beacon Charter High School; Joyce Dolbec, Consultant, YWCA RI; Anthony Gabriele, Parent and Co-Chair of PAC; Rev. Gene Giguere, Pastor, Harvest Community Church; George Nasuti, Woonsocket Education Department; Dr. Beata Nelken, Pediatrician, Thundermist Health Center. Completed terms are: Deborah Perry, YWCA RI; Andrew Gaulin, Woonsocket High School. Mrs. Carcifero presented the WPC accomplishments, focusing on youth activities, specifically the Above the Influence (ATI) program; media campaigns, focusing on prescription drug abuse, marijuana, and the Tip Line; educating the community on legislative issues; and partnering with local community agencies on senior citizen prevention education.

 Mrs. Carcifero then recognized the Executive Committee for their many hours of dedication to the WPC, presented the graduating seniors with scholarships for their accomplishments and WPC staff for their creativity and commitment to the WPC.