NACoA wishes to acknowledge the death of a true pioneer, Suzanne Somers, for her very courageous, and public advocacy for children of alcoholics, as a result of her own lived experience. In the early 90’s, Ms. Somers was the National Chair for NACoA, and hosted many national events to support the NACoA mission of eliminating the adverse effects of familial addiction on children. A knowledgeable, dedicated COA advocate, Suzanne received the Humanitarian Award from the National Council on Alcoholism, and the Distinguished Achievement in Public Service Award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NACoA is grateful to Ms. Somers, for her significant advocacy contributions to remember the children, the first hurt and often the last helped by the prevalent disease of addiction.

Julie Creaden

Audra West

Ruth Ann Rigby

Jason Schwartz

Michal Cantor

Sohail Mohammad

NACoA continues to grow! Our board attracts caring adults with the expertise, experience, and industry network to increase our ability to live our mission and eliminate the adverse impact of alcohol and drug use on children and families. We are grateful for their passion and commitment to these children, and to NACoA. Welcome!

Learn more about them here > >

Many adults are overwhelmed with concerns about peer pressure and community risk, not sure exactly how to navigate critical discussions with their kids to protect them and keep them safe and healthy. The One Choice 5: Prevention Framework provides a simple, yet comprehensive, starting point that helps families understand and integrate prevention into their thinking. Science continues to emphasize the importance for children to wait until they are 21 years old before exploring alcohol or other substances for their physical and mental health. By waiting, it protects the brain while it is still developing. Using positive messaging and supporting data, parents can engage in a more supportive manner with their children when discussing such important topics.

A High School Senior’s Personal Fundraising Campaign to Help Other Kids

In August, NACoA was approached by a passionate, well-mannered young man – a senior in high school – eager to help other kids who were affected by family members struggling with addiction. “I grew up with a mother battling drug addiction, an experience that brought about significant mental and academic hardships for me. However, I fought through these adversities and emerged stronger and more determined to extend a helping hand to others facing similar, or even more disheartening, circumstances.” Carmine Mina set a goal of raising $15,000 during the month of October with his personal Bridge the Gap campaign, raising money for NACoA to bring hope and healing to kids like him. During busy days juggling classes, homework, soccer practices, and games, Carmine has also been very busy talking to people about children impacted by addiction and how they can help. His tenacious efforts have brought about amazing results!

NACoA extends a great deal of pride and gratitude for all that has been accomplished in just two weeks! Please consider supporting Carmine in his campaign. Remind him he is not alone, and that many others care about the children impacted by parents struggling with the disease of addiction.

If you would like to become a NACoA ambassador, and create a similar personal fundraising campaign with your own donation page, contact Director of Programs Mary Beth Collins.

Are you familiar with the term “safe spaces” for children living with a parent who struggles with addiction? It’s a concept that’s crucial to their well-being and development.

“Childhood is the time in life when we should feel safest. We should feel safe to express ourselves, safe to make mistakes, and safe to dream about what life has in store. Children deserve safe spaces.” In this blog, readers explore the different types of safe spaces available, from recovery communities to teen centers and even libraries. 

NACoA believes in the power of safe spaces and the impact they can have on a child’s life. 

The National FASD Education Survey closes October 31st – intended for those with FASDs, caregivers, and relevant professionals, Despite a prevalence rate of FASD in up to 1 in 20 school-aged children, there is a general lack of recognition and understanding of FASD in our education systems. This survey has been designed to better understand students’ experiences with an FASD, their parents and caregivers, and professionals involved in this field. This survey was created by FASD United, Proof Alliance, and The Florida Center. 

Learn more or take the survey > >

Children growing up with parental addiction need affirmations and validation to make sense of big emotions in small bodies. Caring nurturance helps children heal from the impact of the fear and uncertainty that lives in a household impacted by addiction. Here are some friendly ghosts bringing healing messages to our kids who are struggling. Life brings them enough “tricks.” Hand out these verbal “treats” during the Halloween season, and all year long. Provide affirmations young children can learn to repeat to themselves to soothe when times get scary.

Contact Us:

nacoa@nacoa.org | 301.468.0985

National Association For Children of Addiction

615 Baltimore Pike, STE H #1158
Bel Air, Maryland, 21014