Thomas’ Hope Foundation Featured on WAFB: Empowering Youth to Lead Prevention

The Thomas’ Hope Foundation was honored to be featured in a recent WAFB news segment highlighting the powerful work being done by Livingston Parish students through their S.A.D.D. (Students Against Destructive Decisions) chapters. This collaboration marks a vital step forward in empowering young people to lead their peers away from the dangers of substance use, particularly the threat of fentanyl.

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🎥 Inside the Story: Peer-Led Prevention in Action

The video showcases high school students teaching younger peers how to recognize and resist the pressures of substance use. These student leaders serve as relatable mentors, using real stories, heartfelt conversations, and research-backed messaging to make a lasting impact.

Thomas’ Hope Foundation was featured alongside the H.U.G.S. organization in the segment, both offering stories of lives lost and saved. Linda Ventura, founder of Thomas’ Hope, shared the story of her son Thomas, whose life was tragically cut short due to heroin use after beginning with pills at age 15. His story now serves as a bridge to meaningful conversations with students across the region.

Kym Laube of H.U.G.S. added another powerful voice, drawing from more than 30 years of lived experience in recovery and prevention. Her message resonated with students, encouraging a culture of openness and connection.

🤝 Why This Work Matters

• Peer-to-peer effectiveness: Students are more likely to listen to peers. S.A.D.D. provides a platform for honest, impactful communication among youth.

• Early outreach: By reaching kids as young as elementary school, the program intervenes before habits form. Research shows that most substance use begins in adolescence; early prevention is key.

• Community-wide commitment: The collaboration between schools, nonprofits, parents, and local leaders reflects a united approach to keeping students safe.

  
  

🔄 The Mission Continues

The Thomas’ Hope Foundation remains committed to:

• Expanding outreach to more schools and youth programs

• Supporting the growth of peer-led leadership models like S.A.D.D.

• Sharing stories that inspire awareness, action, and healing

  
  

🎙 A Message of Gratitude

Gratitude goes out to WAFB for shining a spotlight on the powerful work happening in Livingston Parish. By amplifying the voices of students, families, and prevention advocates, this segment helps strengthen the community’s commitment to saving lives and supporting youth.

Thomas’ story continues to inspire action across Louisiana and beyond. Through education, storytelling, and student leadership, Thomas’ Hope will keep helping young people make safer, healthier choices—one voice, one story, and one life at a time.