This month we're honored to nominate Shelley Alves, Sonoma County Health Program Manager, as our Panaptic Prevention Hero!

What led you to this important work?  

After years working in treatment and crisis care, I often found myself wondering: What if we had reached this person sooner? That question stuck with me. When I transitioned from the Crisis Stabilization Unit to the DUI/Prevention program, I saw firsthand the potential for prevention to change the trajectory of someone’s life before tragedy strikes.  

What solidified my passion was hearing directly from young people—those using their voices to advocate for education, services, and care. Their energy lit a fire in me. Prevention quickly became more than a role—it became a calling. And honestly, I haven’t taken a day off since (almost literally). This work is personal. It's urgent. And I love it. 

What lessons have you gained about preventing youth substance use?  

Substances often meet real emotional needs—connection, relief, acceptance, ease. If we’re going to be successful, prevention must offer meaningful alternatives that are just as accessible. We need to be present where youth are—visible, consistent, and engaged.  

Always listen first—then follow through on what you said you'd do. Trust is everything. Relationships matter, with both youth and their families. Be real. Be human. That’s where the real work begins.