July 8, 2026 – Chicopee, Massachusetts – Three hundred students at Westover Job Corps, ages 16 to 25, recently sat in on the Hampden District Attorney’s Office “Just Once” presentation, led by the Community Safety & Outreach Unit.

The “Just Once” presentation highlights the dangers of experimenting with drugs and the risk of taking prescription medication.

The session began with students watching a documentary that features real people and real stories of drug addiction and recovery. This includes former students that attended local high schools, their parents, and other experts in the field.

Following the documentary, students heard from guest speaker Adam Bartlett who shared his personal story of addiction, loss, and recovery, reinforcing the real-life consequences of substance use. Bartlett now works as a community engagement & admissions specialist at Northstar Recovery Center.

“Too often, tragedies begin with what seemed like ‘just once.’ One decision to try a drug can change the course of a young person’s life forever,” said Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni. “Through our ‘Just Once’ presentation, we hope to give students the knowledge and confidence to make safe choices and understand that every decision matters.”

The “Just Once” presentation is part of the Hampden District Attorney’s ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse and the opioid crisis through education, prevention, and community engagement. Schools, parent organizations and community groups interested in hosting a presentation can contact Deputy Director of Community Safety & Outreach Gina Anselmo at gina.anselmo@mass.gov.