The Roanoke Area Youth Substance Abuse Coalition (RAYSAC) R.E.AL. Team is recruiting area high school age youth to help promote positive decision making among their peers.

The RAYSAC Empowered Activist Leaders Team is focused on building a stronger foundation of youth participation in the community by helping decrease youth substance abuse through youth led events and communication.

After the recent graduations of seven of its members RAYSAC is actively seeking youth in the Roanoke Valley. Those that are interested in making a positive difference in their communities can contribute by sharing their desire to promote health and wellness. Members can also utilize their skills in social media marketing, blog writing, photography, public speaking and much more. A recent graduate shared that R.E.A.L. Team has impacted her life in a big way. It gave her an outlet to be more involved with her community. It also gave her communication and teamwork skills that she can carry with her into college.

R.E.A.L. Team members meet on a monthly basis to explore ways to collaborate with community partners to promote a safe and drug free Roanoke Valley. The next RAYSAC/R.E.A.L. Team meeting will be held on July 13 from 12-2 p.m. at the Liberty Road office. More information about youth leadership opportunities can be found by visiting the website at: www.raysac.org.