Founder and Contributing Writer – Jason Mayo
“There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” – Desmond Tutu
I heard this quote during one of the sessions at the CADCA (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America) Forum in Washington, D.C., and it resonated deeply with me. It perfectly encapsulates the importance of prevention alongside treatment and recovery.
The Mission of CADCA
Attending the CADCA Forum was an eye-opening and deeply inspiring experience. CADCA is dedicated to building drug-free communities through prevention, education, and advocacy, and this event brought together passionate individuals from all over the world who are fighting tirelessly to protect our youth and create healthier communities.
The Importance of Prevention
As someone in long-term recovery, I understand firsthand the importance of treatment and recovery support. But what this forum reinforced for me is that prevention is just as vital. We often focus on pulling people out of the river, but we also need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in. Prevention efforts, especially when aimed at young people, can change the course of lives before addiction takes hold.
The Impact of Substance Use on the Developing Brain
One of the most critical messages I took away from the forum is how alcohol and drugs impact the developing brain. Many people don’t realize that the human brain isn’t fully developed until around age 25. Substance use during adolescence and young adulthood can cause lasting damage, increasing the likelihood of addiction, mental health struggles, and cognitive impairment. And yet, these dangers are often overlooked—especially when someone isn’t a frequent user or doesn’t appear to have a problem. Education is key, and we must do our best to arm our kids with the knowledge they need to make informed, healthy choices.
The Power of Community Advocacy
I was incredibly moved by the sheer number of dedicated advocates I met—boots-on-the-ground warriors who are working to educate, mobilize, and push for policy changes that will make a real difference. These coalitions are the heartbeat of community prevention efforts, ensuring that resources, funding, and strategies are implemented where they are needed most. The passion and commitment in the room were palpable, and it gave me so much hope for the future.
The Role of Youth Leadership
Perhaps the most powerful moments were hearing youth leaders speak out on behalf of their peers. These young people are using their voices to bring attention to the issues that directly impact them, standing up for a future free from substance misuse. Their courage, insight, and leadership are exactly what we need to create lasting change, and they deserve to be heard and supported at every level.
Reflecting on My Own Journey
I couldn’t help but reflect on how much I wish I had access to this kind of education and community when I was younger. I wonder if it could have made a difference in my own journey. But rather than dwell on what could have been, I am grateful that my path has led me here—to a place where I can use my lived experience to contribute to this movement.
Recognizing Political Support
I also want to acknowledge and express gratitude for the policymakers and politicians who stand with us in this fight. Their support is crucial in shaping legislation, securing funding, and amplifying the voices of those on the front lines. Their influence has the power to turn advocacy into action, and we need them now more than ever.
Sober Not Subtle’s Role in the Movement
At Sober Not Subtle, we are committed to doing our part—whether it’s amplifying the voices of those struggling, celebrating the work of advocates, or helping to educate and break the stigma surrounding substance use disorder and mental health. The CADCA Forum reinforced that this work matters. Prevention matters. Community matters. And together, we can build a safer, healthier future for the next generation.
I am honored to be a part of this movement and will continue to stand alongside those who are fighting for change. Let’s keep the conversation going, keep showing up, and keep making a difference—because our kids, our communities, and our future depend on it.
More about CADCA from their website: Founded in response to the devastating crack-cocaine epidemic of the 1980s, CADCA was born from a nationwide need to mobilize communities against rising drug use. In 1989, President George H.W. Bush established the President’s Drug Advisory Council to address the crisis, which led to the recommendation to form a nonprofit dedicated to coordinating prevention efforts. By 1992, CADCA was established to unite coalitions, share strategies, and drive community-level solutions. In 1997, CADCA played a pivotal role in securing the passage of the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Act, the nation’s cornerstone program for preventing youth drug use.
CADCA represents over 5,000 community coalitions that involve individuals from key sectors including schools, law enforcement, youth, parents, healthcare, media, and others. We have members in every U.S. state and territory and more than 30 countries around the world.
Jason Mayo is the creator and founder of Sober Not Subtle. He is a certified recovery peer advocate in New York. Before working in recovery, Jason was owner and executive producer of award winning visual effects and animation companies in NYC.
He currently writes for The Sober Curator, has been a contributing writer for the Forbes Business Council, creator of the popular Dad blog Out-Numbered, and author of the children’s books, “Do Witches Make Fishes?” and “The Boy and the Billy Goat.” His debut memoir, In Case of Emergency, Break Childhood is due out Fall 2025.
Jason has been sober since March 25th, 2010.
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