The Prevention Platform – Prevention & Recovery

The Prevention Platform
The Prevention Platform
The Prevention Platform - Prevention & Recovery
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The Prevention Platform
The Prevention Platform
The Prevention Platform - Prevention & Recovery
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Welcome to another episode of the Prevention Platform podcast! In this special edition, we shine a spotlight on National Recovery Month and dive deep into the crucial topic of keeping our youth on a healthy path away from substance abuse. Host Ashley Dallas is joined by guests Martha Fenningham, Education Specialist at Valley Youth House, and James and Marie, Certified Recovery Specialists, at Treatment Trends.

As we wrap up National Recovery Month, we believe it’s the perfect time to address the importance of prevention strategies for young people facing the challenges of substance misuse and addiction. Martha, with her extensive experience working with youth, shares valuable insights into the early warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors that can make a significant difference in a young person’s life.

James and Marie, both Certified Recovery Specialists, bring their personal journeys of recovery to the table. They offer a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by individuals in recovery, emphasizing the vital role parents and caregivers play in supporting and empowering young people on their recovery journey.

In this episode, our guests explore a range of critical topics, including:

  • Recognizing Warning Signs: Learn how to identify signs of substance misuse or addiction in young people, from behavioral changes to physical symptoms.
  • Effective Communication: Discover practical strategies for open and honest conversations with your children about substance use, fostering trust and understanding.
  • Prevention Strategies: Explore proactive measures that parents and caregivers can implement to create a supportive and safe environment, reducing the risk of substance abuse.
  • The Role of Peer Pressure: Understand the impact of peer pressure on young individuals and how to empower them to make informed choices.
  • Community Resources: Learn about the various resources and organizations available to assist young people in their recovery journey, as shared by our experts.

Through Martha, James, and Marie’s collective wisdom, personal stories, and professional expertise, this episode offers listeners actionable advice and hope. We believe that by raising awareness about National Recovery Month and discussing strategies for prevention and support, we can make a significant impact in keeping our youth on the path to health and well-being.

Tune in to this special episode of the Prevention Platform podcast and join us in celebrating National Recovery Month while gaining valuable insights into empowering our young generation for a brighter, substance-free future.

About Us

Valley Youth House does more than just provide homes for youth in Pennsylvania who are experiencing abuse and homelessness. We partner with thousands of individuals each year to build a solid foundation for young people and their families. With dedicated street outreach, housing, counseling, skills training, health, prevention, and intervention services, we empower resilient young people in establishing promising futures. The Youth Education Program is funded in part by the Lehigh County Department of Drug and Alcohol. Their commitment to prevention efforts across Lehigh County allows us to produce this podcast.

Meet the Hosts

Ashley Dallas

Ashley Dallas

Director of Prevention Services

Ashley Dallas is the Director of Prevention Services at Valley Youth House and oversees the Attendance Support Program, School-Based Counseling Program, including the trauma-focused Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) and Bounce Back programs, , Silk Lehigh Valley, Wellness Education at the Achieving Independence Center (AIC), and the Youth Education Program. Ashley has worked for Valley Youth House since 2011- starting as an intern and then moving into a mobile therapist and school-based counseling role before becoming a supervisor in 2020. She was recognized by Lehigh Valley Business with a “40 Under 40” award in 2022 and as a “Woman of Influence” in 2024. She is currently a part of the 2025 Women2Women Leadership Development cohort and loves connecting with other women leaders in the Lehigh Valley.  

Ashley has a masters degree in counseling and human services from Lehigh University and has completed a number of post-graduate courses. She is a graduate of Moravian University and spent the first 5 years of her professional career as an elementary school teacher. 

Ashley loves spending time with her two sons, Tanner and Evan, husband Christopher, and their mini labradoodle, Callie. Ashley can often be found on the sidelines of the baseball field cheering on Tanner and Evan’s teams. She is an avid reader (mysteries/ thrillers) and enjoys watching TV and mind-numbing scrolling on social media. She also loves to bake cupcakes, cook new recipes, walk outdoors, and camp. 

Sarah Pammer

Sarah Pammer

Communications Specialist

Sarah Pammer is the Communications Specialist at Valley Youth House in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where she manages storytelling, media relations, and volunteer engagement to amplify the organization’s mission. Sarah also works closely with staff and clients to craft compelling success stories and produces social media content that highlights the agency’s impact, helping Valley Youth House reach and support more than 187,000 young people annually.

Sarah earned her Master’s degree in Communication Studies from East Stroudsburg University in 2023 and her Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and Public Relations from Kutztown University in 2017.

In her spare time, Sarah enjoys creating paper collages, crocheting, watching movies, playing music, and spending time with her two cats, Mina and Lily.