Lily Kriz, an RHS senior and EMT with Ramsey Responds, embarks on a mission to combat opioid addiction stigma as part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project.
Why it matters: Her work sheds light on addiction as a chronic disease rather than a moral failing, influencing community perceptions.
By partnering with Dr. Anthony J. Accurso, Lily ensures her educational materials are both accurate and impactful.
Her website, Addiction Recovery Spot, and peer-teaching curriculum debunk myths using data and celebrity testimonials.
Peer-to-peer education model: Students engage in interactive learning, exploring addiction science and overdose response.
Groups employ skits, infographics, and quizzes to convey understanding and empathy.
This approach fosters a compassionate understanding of addiction among peers.
The bottom line: Lily's project empowers peers as educators, creating a sustainable network of awareness and compassion, and showcasing how civic leadership can drive community change.