In 1988, many school districts across the state of New York were given the task of created a community council for promoting healthy behavior among youth.

The Drug Free Schools and Community Act provided funding for districts along with written criteria for starting a functional partnership among schools, local law enforcement, government, and community groups.

While such groups were formed, few have lasted as long as the Fairport-Perinton Chemical Prevention Advisory Council (CPAC).

Debra Tandoi, who also works as the Asset Coordinator for the Fairport school district, says this is something Fairport takes great pride in.

“We followed the formula, and I think that’s the reason we’ve been able to sustain ourselves over the years,” said Tandoi.

The goal of CPAC is to educate youth about the dangers of substance abuse and promote healthy habits in the face of negative peer pressure.

Alyssa’s Angels, a Henrietta based charity, started a holiday gift project in 2011 to directly help local children and families in need during the holiday season. Five worthy non-profit organizations were selected and Alyssa’s Angels donated $500 to each.

This year, in an effort for the program to have a greater impact and help even more Rochester area children and families; Alyssa’s Angels reached out for partner organizations from the community to match its $500 donation. Through this effort, each of the five selected non-profit organizations received $1,000.

Businesses looking for a unique and completely turnkey event should look no further than this summer’s Big Rib BBQ & Blues Festival. Thanks to an exciting new partnership between Festival organizer the Springut Group and Visiting Nurse Meals On Wheels (MOW), businesses can now host their company picnic in the MOW VIP tent during any of the four days of the Big Rib BBQ & Blues Fest.