By Mary O’KEEFE

The Crescenta Valley Substance Misuse Prevention Coalition, aka CV Cares, is a grassroots community organization dedicated to youth wellness, mental health awareness and substance misuse prevention and education. It works under the non-profit umbrella of iMPACT Foundation LA Inc., which is dedicated to the same issues as CV Cares. It was originally founded as the Chace Taylor Malone Impact Foundation; its purpose is to support families and individuals that have been affected by addiction, mental health challenges and emotional isolation. 

“We serve our community by connecting individuals to life-changing resources through an established network of partners. From treatment referrals and therapy to mentorship and sober living, we offer holistic support designed to help people not only survive – but thrive,” according to the iMPACT Foundation LA website.

On Saturday, June 6, a fundraiser is being held at Panera Bread, 990 Town Center in La Cañada Flintridge, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. A percentage of the net sales will be donated to the iMPACT Foundation LA Inc. The funds raised will be earmarked for the CV Cares youth ambassador program for the activities, materials and advocacy work that lie ahead. 

According to its website, the CV Cares youth ambassador program trains high school student leaders to educate their peers, organize awareness campaigns and promote healthy choices through monthly initiatives and community events. 

“In May, the youth ambassador team hosted an informational presentation at the CV WellNEST, sharing with students the heart and purpose behind the CV Cares youth ambassador program,” states the website. “We are thrilled to announce that from that presentation, we have identified 16 students as our newest cohort – our largest yet. This is a crossover moment.”

The fundraiser recognized dine in, pick-up, or delivery. For those who utilize online, please use promo code FUND4U at checkout at panerabread.com or in the Panera app.

For those going into the restaurant show or bring the flyer (available on the CV Weekly website) to ensure each purchase is counted.

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