LAKE COUNTY, Calif. — Last week, the Lake County Office of Education partnered with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Victims of Illicit Drugs, or VOID, to deliver essential presentations on the dangers of fentanyl and drug use.

These presentations reached over 4,500 middle and high school students in every school district across Lake County.

"Education is the most powerful tool we have to protect our children and their futures. By addressing this head-on, we are equipping our students with the knowledge they need to make safe choices and help save lives,” said Lake County Superintendent of Schools Brock Falkenberg.

This initiative brought together educators, law enforcement and community organizations to address the urgent issue of fentanyl-related overdoses among youth.

Lake County is not immune to the devastating impacts of this crisis. According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, data shows that 40 percent of all drug overdose deaths in Lake County are fentanyl-related.

The presentations featured Steve Filson and Chris Didier from VOID and Sgt. Gary Frace from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Both speakers from VOID traveled to Lake County specifically for this initiative, bringing their stories, expertise and passion to educate and empower students.

"In my role as coroner, I’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of fentanyl on families in our community. My goal is to save kids’ lives by providing them with the knowledge they need to stay safe,” said Sgt. Frace.

VOID is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating substance abuse through education and outreach. Their commitment to prevention has made a significant impact on communities across the country.

“Fentanyl changes everything,” said Filson. “Fentanyl and other emerging synthetic drugs have forever changed the drug landscape. Counterfeit pills consist of nothing but a neutral filler, binder and Fentanyl. Fentanyl has eliminated the possibility of experimenting with drugs.”

While these presentations mark a significant step forward, the fight against fentanyl is far from over.

The Lake County Office of Education encourages parents, educators and community members to continue fostering open and honest conversations about the dangers of drug use.

“Together, we can build a safer and healthier future for Lake County’s students,” the agency said in a statement.

The community is invited to attend additional presentations this week.

On Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 5 to 7 p.m., there will be a presentation at Konocti Resort Casino. Another presentation will be held on Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Habematolel Pomo of Upper Lake Community Building.

For more information about Stop the VOID and its mission, visit https://stopthevoid.org/.