waterfordcc

Prevention Innovators Conference. Training That Drives Real Impact

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 03:37:07 GMT

WCC completes hands-on training to strengthen prevention efforts in Waterford

So proud of the work our team put into this experience and what we are bringing back to Waterford.

Last week, the Waterford Community Coalition team attended the Prevention Innovators Conference.

This conference was held aboard a cruise ship traveling from Boston to Bermuda and back. That may sound unusual at first, but the setting was very intentional. It created a focused environment where prevention professionals could spend extended time learning, collaborating, and working through real-world applications together.

Over four of the five days, our team participated in structured training sessions and hands-on exercises , along with receiving 12 certified continuing education hours in prevention.

This was not a vacation. It was a working training environment, and every hour was built around strengthening the work we bring back to our community.

Training That Translates to Action

The sessions were practical and relevant. The focus stayed on what actually works and how to apply it.

We spent time building skills in:

Using connection as a protective factor for youth and families
Applying the Strategic Prevention Framework for planning and evaluation
Strengthening youth engagement and leadership in prevention
Looking at community-level factors that influence behavior
Using brain-based tools to support decision-making
Thinking about sustainability and long-term funding
Improving communication and facilitation within our work

These are tools we can use right now in Waterford.

Leadership in the Field

Our Program Director, Debbie Wertz, presented
“Connection is Prevention. Building Strong Kids, Families, and Communities.”

This work is at the heart of what we do. Strong relationships are one of the most effective ways to reduce risk and build resilience.

Learning in Real Time

One of the most meaningful moments came through a conversation with a group of teens on the ship. They had met during the trip and quickly built their own connections.

We talked about stress, anxiety, and managing big emotions.

We kept it simple. We talked about breathing.

We shared WCC breathing tools with them, and their response was immediate. They were open, engaged, and excited to have something they could actually use in the moment.

Prevention does not have to be complicated to be effective.

Collaboration That Expands Impact

This conference created space for real connection with other prevention professionals. Not surface-level networking. Real conversations and shared work.

While in Bermuda, that collaboration extended further through a partnership with Bermuda’s prevention team. This was formally recognized through a proclamation on April 17, 2026.

It was a meaningful moment, but more importantly, it reflects the kind of collaboration that strengthens prevention work everywhere.

Why This Matters for Waterford

Everything we learned comes back with us.

This training strengthens our ability to:

Support youth and families
Partner with schools and community organizations
Build stronger, more effective prevention programs
Continue growing sustainable, long-term impact

We attend training to bring it back and put it into action.

Looking Ahead

Prevention works best when it is built on connection, supported by strong strategy, and carried out together.

We are grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and bring this work back to Waterford.

In partnership and purpose,
Waterford Community Coalition

#StrongerTogether #PreventionWorks #WCC #ConnectionIsPrevention #CommunityImpact #YouthDevelopment #CommunityPrevention

Shop With a Hero 2025

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 04:48:37 GMT

A Day of Joy, Connection, and Community

Today’s Shop With a Hero celebration filled Waterford with joy. Our event brought almost 100 children together with the heroes from the Waterford Township Police Department, Waterford Regional Fire Department, and our Emergency Dispatch team. Each child felt supported through the steady kindness of the adults who walked beside them.

This event shines because of the people who show up with heart. We learned that one Waterford Police Officer even took a PTO day just to volunteer. Their commitment set the tone for the day. It reminded us that community is built by people who step forward with intention.

Moments That Show the Heart of This Event

One moment that stayed with us came from a little boy who brought our registration table to tears. He explained that his little sister, who uses a wheelchair and is non-verbal, would need help. He said that he would help her because she is his little sister. His sweetness, compassion, and protective heart moved every one of us. His love showed the true meaning of giving.

We make sure every hero who shops with a child understands any special needs or special family circumstances. This ensures a safe space for every child to enjoy the experience.

This event is more than receiving gifts. It teaches children the importance of giving. Many of the kids fill their carts with presents for brothers, sisters, parents, and grandparents. They learn what generosity feels like. They learn that giving creates connection.

A Community That Stands Together

Before we share the joy of Santa’s Workshop, we honor the partners who made this day possible. Their generosity helped lift families and create moments of hope.

Our community partners showed up with strength and unity.

These images show the heart of Waterford. They show the people who stand beside us to make days like this possible.

Santa’s Workshop and Volunteer Magic

After shopping, each child entered Santa’s Workshop. They enjoyed snacks, while their gifts were wrapped by our volunteers, created crafts, sat with Santa, and took home a keepsake framed photo. These moments brought comfort and joy to families who needed both.

Our volunteers filled the room with warmth and energy.

Closing Reflections

We end this day humbled and grateful. Shop With a Hero reminds us why we do this work. It brings hope to children. It strengthens families. It reflects the best of Waterford. To every volunteer, donor, partner, and hero who helped make today possible. thank you. You lifted our mission through your actions. You brightened the lives of children. You made this day shine.

Pumpkins, Progress & Purpose: Waterford Community Coalition 2025 Annual Meeting

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 00:11:02 GMT

Celebrating Connection, Collaboration, and Community

The Waterford Community Coalition (WCC) hosted its 2025 Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 , at the historic Fisk Farm. . The evening, themed “Pumpkins, Progress & Purpose,” brought together community members, local leaders, and partner organizations to celebrate the Coalition’s progress during the 2024–2025 program year (October 2024 through September 2025) .

Despite the crisp fall air outside, the atmosphere inside was filled with warmth, gratitude, and community spirit. Attendees gathered to reflect on the impact of the past year and to honor the partnerships that continue to make WCC’s mission possible.

A Year in Review

WCC leadership shared highlights and successes from the 2024–2025 period, showcasing key prevention initiatives, youth engagement efforts, and collaborative community projects. A video presentation captured memorable moments from events and programs throughout the year, a visual reminder of how powerful community-driven change can be.

One of the most moving parts of the evening was the debut of “Stronger Together,” an original song created for WCC. The song celebrates unity, resilience, and purpose, themes that perfectly align with the Coalition’s mission of empowering families and youth.

WCC 2025 Annual Meeting Photo Album - An Image is Worth a Thousand Words

�� “Stronger Together” Lyrics
In the heart of Waterford, we stand as one,
Building a future, where hope is never done.
Together we rise, like the morning sun…

The Puzzle of Purpose

Each partner received a puzzle piece at check-in, representing their unique contribution to the Coalition’s mission. During the meeting, every partner, both individuals and organizations, was recognized and invited to the front to receive a Certificate of Appreciation and place their piece onto a large puzzle mural .

As the mural came together, it symbolized a powerful truth: we are all pieces of the same mission , and when united, we form something truly beautiful. The completed puzzle stood as a visual testament to collaboration, purpose, and community pride.

Moving Forward

The evening closed with a message of continued commitment to prevention, partnership, and progress. WCC shared its goals for the upcoming year and encouraged everyone to stay engaged as the Coalition continues to build a healthier, stronger Waterford.

The 2025 Annual Meeting wasn’t just a celebration, it was a reminder that through connection, compassion, and collective effort, we are all stronger together .

If you’d like to learn more about the Waterford Community Coalition , participate in upcoming events, or explore ways to get involved, we’d love to connect with you!

Reach out to us at info@ccwaterford.org or visit our website to see how you can join us in making a positive impact in the Waterford community.

Together, we’re stronger together . ��

Honoring Heather Halls: A Legacy of Kindness and Community

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:59:53 GMT

Celebrating a Life of Compassion and Service

On a bright October afternoon, dozens of community members gathered at the Waterford Township Public Library to celebrate the life and legacy of Heather Halls . Known for her generosity, humor, and deep care for others, Heather’s impact on Waterford continues to shine through the #HeatherStrong movement that began in her memory.

From Vision to Tribute

What started as a simple idea — to dedicate a memorial bench in Heather’s honor, quickly grew into a community-wide effort. The #HeatherStrong Fundraiser , organized by the Waterford Community Coalition, not only made the bench possible but also funded local student scholarships in Heather’s name.

A Place of Reflection

We especially love that the bench found its home beside the Kindness Rock Garden, created by On a Dragonfly’s Wings. Heather was one of the kindest people you could ever meet, so it feels deeply fitting that these two spaces of comfort and reflection now sit side by side, offering peace to those who visit.

A Community United

During the dedication, Heather’s family, friends, and colleagues shared words of love and remembrance. The afternoon was filled with sunlight, stories, and connection; a fitting tribute to a woman whose kindness touched so many lives.

“Heather’s light continues to shine through the good we create together,” shared a representative from the Waterford Community Coalition.

Continuing the Legacy

The Waterford Community Coalition extends heartfelt gratitude to every donor, volunteer, bowler, and partner who helped bring this project to life, and to the Waterford Township Public Library for helping select the perfect setting for this tribute.

Heather’s spirit will continue to live on in every act of kindness, every scholarship awarded, and every quiet moment spent on the bench that bears her name. ��

#WaterfordCommunityCoalition #HeatherStrong #CommunityPride #WaterfordLibrary #LegacyOfLove

Motors and Mocktails

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 21:22:45 GMT

What a fantastic night at the Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce event at the M1 Concourse!

It was an incredible atmosphere, and a ton of great connections were made.

The WCC was the amazing Designated Driver sponsor! Our mocktail station was an absolute hit. Not only were the mocktails absolutely delicious, but we had a whole recipe book to help people make some on their own.

We called it Motors and Mocktails since we were at a race car venue. We also provided vital prevention material on the dangers of drinking and driving, along with some really helpful tips. It's so vital to integrate fun with responsibility.

Our Miss Debbie loved meeting so many new faces and reconnecting with fellow chamber members she hadn't seen in a bit. And it was great catching up with Lafontaine!

Feeling recharged and inspired after such a positive evening of community building and important awareness. Can't wait for the next one!

#ChamberEvent #Networking #Community #Mocktails #ResponsibleChoices #WCC #M1Concourse #BusinessConnections

Waterford Community Coalition’s (WCC) Girls Stand Strong & Leadership Program: Empowering Young Leaders

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 00:04:44 GMT

Girls Stand Strong: A Foundation for Success

2024-2025 year-end summary of the WCC Girls Stand Strong and Leadership , a powerful and impactful group for girls. We will explain why we have this group and where it started, the activities the Leadership Group implemented to make a positive change in their school, and the incredible impact it has had.

Join us as we celebrate the achievements of these young leaders and look towards a future where WCC Girls Stand Strong continues to grow and inspire the next generation of female changemakers. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or simply someone who believes in the power of girls, we hope you find inspiration and valuable insights within these pages. Let's explore how this exceptional program is making a difference!

Check out the activities these amazing young female students planned and facilitated, all with an adult guiding and helping at Pierce Middle School.

#heatherstrong 2025 Scholarship - Applications being accepted through May 31, 2025

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 22:49:26 GMT

�� Calling All Waterford Seniors:

Apply Now for the Heather Halls Memorial Scholarship! ��

The Waterford Community Coalition is honored to announce the 2024–2025 Heather Halls Memorial Scholarship —a $2,000 award offered to one graduating senior from each of Waterford’s three high schools.

This special scholarship celebrates the legacy of Heather Halls , a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community wellness. Heather dedicated her life to uplifting others, and this scholarship continues that mission by supporting students who are doing the same.

What makes this scholarship unique?
There’s no GPA requirement and no financial need requirement . We’re simply looking for students with a heart for service and a passion for making a difference —whether through community service, substance use prevention efforts, mentoring, or other meaningful actions.

�� Who Should Apply?
Graduating seniors (Class of 2025) from any of the three Waterford high schools who are:
✅ Accepted to a college or trade school for Fall 2025
✅ Involved in community service or prevention work
✅ Inspired to continue creating positive change

✍️ How to Apply:
Submit a 500–700 word essay on ONE of the following topics:

Community service you've been involved in and what it taught you
Substance prevention efforts you’ve contributed to and their impact
Why you believe you're a strong candidate and how you plan to make a difference in the future

�� Deadline: May 31, 2025

�� Submit your essay and proof of college/trade school acceptance to:
heatherstrong@ccwaterford.org

For questions, contact: admin@ccwaterford.org
�� Or c all (947) 229-7140

Let’s honor Heather’s spirit by lifting up the next generation of changemakers. If you’re a student with a vision and a drive to give back, we want to hear your story.

�� Be #heatherstrong. Make your impact. Apply today.
Learn more at: ccwaterford.org/heather-strong-2024

Supporting Synar Compliance: Waterford Tobacco Retailers Take a Stand Against Youth Substance Access

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 03:30:03 GMT

Shoutout to Waterford retailers doing their part to keep tobacco out of kids' hands!

This month, our team proudly completed Synar Education Visits for 72 tobacco retailers in Waterford , part of our ongoing efforts to keep tobacco and nicotine products out of the hands of youth under 21.

These visits are a key part of our Synar Compliance initiative , which helps ensure that retailers are aware of — and aligned with — Michigan laws that prohibit the sale of tobacco and related substances to minors. Each visit offers us a chance to do an environmental scan of the store’s tobacco product offerings, check for proper signage , and, most importantly, educate store owners and cashiers on how to properly check IDs and avoid illegal sales.

As part of our visits, we:

Filled out a short questionnaire to record our findings,
Provided digital birthdate clocks to make ID checking easier,
Offered information about free ID-check education courses , and
Shared ideas on how we can partner with retailers in the future to support healthy communities.

Celebrating Responsible Retailers

Since we conducted compliance checks with many Waterford-area tobacco and alcohol retailers in Fall 2024 , we wanted to recognize those going above and beyond. We were excited to award special certificates of recognition to 32 retailers who passed compliance checks and did not sell to minors . These certificates are a small way to say thank you for taking youth access prevention seriously.

Why This Matters

Tobacco use remains a serious health risk, especially for young people. By working directly with retailers, we can reduce the availability of harmful substances, support our local businesses with the tools and training they need, and build a healthier Waterford for everyone.

We're grateful for the positive response we’ve received from so many store owners and cashiers. Your commitment is helping make a real difference. If you're a retailer and want to learn more about compliance education or partnering with us, please reach out — we’d love to work with you!

Girls Stand Strong Mindful Dinner Celebration

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:49:09 GMT

Celebrating our amazing, funny, smart, creative, helpful, and hungry GSS participants!

Welcome to our Lucky Mindful Moments dinner with the Girls Stand Strong group!

We have thoroughly enjoyed working with all the girls through the two sessions. They are amazing, funny, smart, creative, helpful, and hungry!

Mindful moments are more than just a moment of appreciation; they are a practice, a gentle nudge to pause, breathe, and fully immerse yourself in the present. Today, we savored the simplicity of each moment with our loved ones while sharing a meal, engaging in mindful activities, and showing our gratitude for how lucky we are. We wanted to continue to build those strong family connections and by having this dinner we believe it will reinforce that by:

Communication and Bonding: Mindful mealtimes offer an opportunity for families to connect, share their days, and strengthen their relationships.
Reduced Screen Time: Mindful eating encourages families to put aside distractions like phones and TVs during meals, promoting more focused interaction.
Shared Traditions and Values: Eating together as a family can reinforce traditions and family values, creating a sense of belonging and togetherness.

Each table had a jar with conversation questions to enjoy over dinner. During dinner, we were able to immerse our senses as to what we tasted, smelled, saw, and felt about the meal.

After dinner, we had a few activities for families to do and take home:

Family Happy Jar
Hanging Heart Display
Heart Puzzle Art
Make-a-wish bracelet

We hope everyone enjoyed this event!

Special Thanks to Change X & Nickelodeon Our World US Community Fund for sponsoring this amazing meal!

#NickOurWorld #ChangeX

Waterford Community Coalition Celebrates Milestones at 2025 CADCA Leadership Forum: Graduation from National Training Academy, Capitol Hill Day, and Meeting with Congresswoman Haley Stevens

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 02:29:11 GMT

Empowering Local Change: Waterford Community Coalition Celebrates Graduation from CADCA's National Training Academy and Engages in Advocacy on Capitol Hill with Congresswoman Haley Stevens

Waterford Community Coalition Celebrates Milestones at the 2025 CADCA Leadership Forum

From February 3 – 6, 2025, members of the Waterford Community Coalition attended the CADCA (Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America) National Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C., marking a significant moment in their ongoing work to foster a drug-free and healthy Waterford.

Representing Waterford at the Capitol Hill Day, Debbie Wertz, Kathy Gordon, and Amy Kennedy had the privilege of meeting with Michigan Representative Haley Stevens to advocate for the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) grant. They shared the positive impact of their coalition’s work, emphasizing the strides the community is making towards a healthier, drug-free environment. During the meeting, the Waterford Community Coalition highlighted its dedication to prevention and education, working closely with local organizations to reduce substance misuse and its harmful effects.

Debbie Wertz, the Program Director of the Waterford Community Coalition, shared her excitement about attending the forum: “I was thrilled to attend the National Forum in Washington, DC. The event focused on prevention training and networking, our official graduation from the NCA Academy, and representing Waterford on Capitol Hill. Our meeting with MI Rep. Haley Stevens was incredibly productive and insightful.”

The CADCA Leadership Forum offered the team the chance to engage in workshops and training sessions, focusing on the latest prevention strategies and networking with more than 4,000 community leaders from around the world. With over 100 workshops, plenary sessions featuring renowned speakers, and countless opportunities for professional development, the event helped equip the coalition with the tools and knowledge necessary to continue making a positive impact in Waterford.

One of the highlights of the forum was SAMHSA’s Prevention Day, which brought together prevention practitioners, scientists, advocates, and community leaders to explore innovative strategies for preventing substance misuse. The theme of this year’s event, "Telling the Prevention Story," focused on inspiring action and sharing the successes of prevention efforts. The three main aims were to prevent the initiation of substance use, prevent the progression of substance use, and prevent the harms associated with substance use—goals that align with the Waterford Community Coalition’s mission.

Among the many inspiring sessions, the team was especially moved by a talk from Ryan D. Leaf. His powerful personal story of recovery and resilience deeply resonated with the group, leaving everyone feeling inspired and motivated to continue their own work in the fight against substance misuse. Ryan's message of perseverance and growth in the face of adversity was a highlight for the team, and his words left a lasting impact.

In addition to the valuable experiences gained during the training, the group had the chance to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow prevention advocates, forge new connections, and even make the most of a long airport delay by having some fun together. Despite the challenges, the team returned to Waterford feeling energized and ready to continue their crucial work in the community.

As the coalition moves forward, the knowledge and relationships gained at the 2025 CADCA Leadership Forum, along with the inspiration drawn from Ryan D. Leaf's speech, will help them continue their commitment to creating a safer, healthier, and stronger community for all.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Waterford Community Coalition’s ongoing work and advocacy efforts to prevent substance misuse in our community!

WCC's Miss Debbie at the Keep MI Kids Tobacco Free event in Lansing

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 22:46:25 GMT

Parents, advocates push for ban on flavored tobacco products

From feeling comfortable buying in-store to being able to purchase online, a concerned Mid-Michigan parent, who chose to stay anonymous, recently brought an online vape seller website to News 10′s attention after her 7th-grader purchased a vape product with no required age verification.

After showing the website to parent advocate Debbie Wertz, she was in disbelief.

“How is that legal?” she said. “I just — how is this not being mandated.”

Waterford Senior Chore Program: A Community Partnership for Seniors’ Independence

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 07:16:49 GMT

In collaboration with Waterford Township, Oakland County, and OLHSA, the Senior Chore Program provides essential services to help seniors stay safe and comfortable in their homes.

Waterford Community Coalition Partners with Waterford Township on Senior Chore Program

The Waterford Community Coalition (WCC) and Waterford Township have come together to launch a new Senior Chore Program aimed at providing vital services to local seniors. This initiative is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and supported by Oakland County and the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA). The program will help seniors stay safe and comfortable in their homes by offering assistance with tasks like lawn care, snow removal, seasonal yard cleanup, tree trimming, and gutter cleaning.

The Spark for Collaboration

The story of this partnership began in April 2024 when the Waterford Senior Center approached the Waterford Community Coalition to explore applying for a Senior Chore Program grant offered by OLHSA, with funding from the Oakland County Executive and Board of Commissioners. They allocated $3 million in ARPA funds to support senior chore services, with Waterford Township eligible to receive $130,000 from this grant.

Recognizing the opportunity to address a pressing need in the community, the Waterford Community Coalition took the initiative to proactively design much of the Senior Chore Program before approaching the Township. Their proposal included a comprehensive plan for services such as lawn care, snow removal, seasonal yard cleanup, tree and bush trimming, and gutter cleaning—tasks that can be challenging for seniors to manage on their own.

A Collaborative Effort

The Waterford Community Coalition's proactive approach, foresight, and well-prepared plan made it easier for the Township to support the initiative, leading to a swift collaboration aimed at ensuring the program's success. The Coalition proposed taking on a support and community outreach role, drawing on their expertise and strong local connections to effectively engage and support the community.

Meeting Community Needs

The Senior Chore Program is designed to provide valuable support to seniors who may struggle with maintaining their homes due to age, physical limitations, or financial constraints. The tasks covered under the program—such as lawn care and snow removal—are essential for seniors to maintain safe and accessible living environments.

Where to Apply

For seniors who wish to apply for assistance through the Senior Chore Program, please visit: APPLICATION

With the collaborative efforts of the Waterford Community Coalition, Waterford Township, and the support of Oakland County and OLHSA, this program will ensure that services reach those who need them the most, easing the burdens of many seniors in the community. Not only does it provide necessary physical labor, but it also fosters a sense of community and solidarity, ensuring seniors feel valued and supported.

Looking Forward

The Waterford Community Coalition’s partnership with Waterford Township is a shining example of how local organizations and government entities can work together to address the needs of the community. By proactively identifying funding opportunities and designing impactful programs, the Coalition has set a powerful precedent for future collaborations that benefit local residents.

As the Senior Chore Program rolls out, the Coalition remains committed to ensuring its success through outreach, monitoring, and continuous community engagement. Together with Waterford Township, they are creating a stronger, more connected community where seniors can thrive.

This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration and serves as a testament to the positive impact that thoughtful, community-driven initiatives can have on improving the lives of residents. For Waterford Township seniors, the future just got a little brighter.

Waterford Underage Decoy Sting: NOT licensed to sell to minors

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:32:53 GMT

Waterford Township Police Crack Down on Underage Alcohol and Vape Sales with Help from Local Coalition

Waterford Police and Community Coalition Take Action Against Underage Alcohol and Vape Sales

Waterford Township, MI – The Waterford Township Police Department, working with the Waterford Community Coalition, recently carried out a special operation to stop underage people from buying alcohol and vape products. Over the past few weeks, officers used underage decoys to visit 63 stores around the township and check whether they were selling to minors.

The Operation

According to Chief Scott Underwood, the operation was timed to start with the school year, making sure young people weren’t able to buy alcohol or vape products. The Waterford Community Coalition, a local group focused on health and safety, worked alongside the police to help make the operation successful. Officers checked a range of businesses, including liquor stores, vape shops, and smoke shops, to make sure they were following Michigan laws about selling to underage customers.

The Results: A Mixed Outcome

The results were concerning. Of the 63 stores visited, three sold alcohol to the underage decoys, and 19 vape and smoke shops sold vape products to those under 21.

This shows that there are still problems with stores selling harmful products to minors, even though it is illegal.

The Consequences

Chief Underwood said that businesses caught selling to minors will face consequences. Retailers who sold alcohol to minors, even though they are licensed by the State of Michigan, will be reported to the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) for further action.

Vape and smoke shops that sold to minors were given tickets under Michigan law. If any alcohol-selling stores also sold vape products to minors, they will get a ticket and be reported to the MLCC too.

Working with the Waterford Community Coalition

The Waterford Community Coalition played an important role in the operation. By partnering with the police, the coalition helped make sure the operation ran smoothly and supported the effort to keep young people safe.

“We’re proud to be part of this effort to protect our youth,” said a representative from the coalition. “Working with the police is key to making our community safer and reducing underage alcohol and vape use.”

The Importance of Staying Vigilant

These results remind us that it’s still a big challenge to stop underage sales of alcohol and vape products. With vaping becoming more popular and underage drinking still a problem, the Waterford Township Police Department and the Waterford Community Coalition are making it clear: businesses that break the law will face serious consequences.

“Protecting our young people from dangerous substances is a top priority for us,” said Chief Underwood. “We will keep working hard to make sure our community stays safe.”

What’s Next?

For the people of Waterford Township, this operation is a reminder of how important it is to stay alert. It also shows the need for businesses to follow the law and be responsible.

If anyone sees stores selling to minors, they’re encouraged to report it to the police. Together, we can work to create a safer community.

Read The Oakland Press article here

Read the oaklandcounty115 article here

Chief Underwood Press release can be read here

More articles on the operation can be found here

Debbie Wertz Interview on CBS Detroit

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 14:39:41 GMT

Waterford Community Coalition Program Director Debbie Wertz was on CBS Detroit this morning talking about the coalition's mission of providing programming needed by our community for mental health, drug education prevention, and education.

Save A Life locations are available 24/7 throughout Oakland County.

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 14:42:35 GMT

Save A Life locations are available 24/7 throughout Oakland County. These lifesaving harm reduction boxes contain vital items like Narcan doses, Fentanyl and Xylazine testing strips, safe disposal kits and informational resources such as Narcan administration training videos.

Thanks to the funding provided by the Oakland Community Health Network and installations by the Alliance Coalition of Healthy Communities, Waterford now has 3 of these available in our community to reduce barriers for those in need. The Alliance will keep the stations stocked at all times. Find a map of locations.