Unlicensed marijuana dispensaries pose significant risks to both adults and youth in our community. Recent seizures in these shops have uncovered marijuana products laced with dangerous substances like fentanyl and xylazine, heightening concerns about public safety.
Join us for a conversation about the impact of unlicensed marijuana on youth and adults and the efforts being made to protect our community. You’ll hear from experts discussing warning signs, risks, and how to keep yourself, your family, and your friends safe.
Family & Children’s Agency (FCA) is a leader in providing social services to our community and is proud to host this virtual conversation with:
Jessica Vivenzio, LCSW, ACCTS
Director, Behavioral Health
Family & Children’s Agency
Jessica has extensive experience working with individuals and families of diverse backgrounds in various treatment modalities, from home-based services to intensive outpatient programs for those experiencing co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. She is also an Advanced Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist (ACCTS).
Jessica strives to support individuals and families seeking positive changes in their lives, and assists them in developing and strengthening the skills needed to effectively manage life stressors, symptoms of substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
Jessica earned a bachelor’s in Psychology from Fairfield University and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University.
Jessica earned a bachelor’s in Psychology from Fairfield University and a Master of Social Work from Fordham University.
Margaret Watt, MPH, MA
Prevention Director
Positive Directions – The Center for Prevention & Counseling
Margaret leads communities in efforts to promote mental health and prevent substance misuse and suicide by conducting surveys, building capacity, providing education and advocacy, and developing support programs and environmental initiatives. She also directs the online youth mental health project known as TurningPointCT.org and chairs the NAMI CT Public Policy Committee.
Previously, Margaret served as Executive Director of the Southwest Regional Mental Health Board and Co-Director of The Hub.
Her prior background includes 12 years in global health and eight years as an educator.
Her prior background includes 12 years in global health and eight years as an educator.
Moderated by
Robert F. Cashel, LCSW
President & CEO
For more than 19 years, Rob Cashel has been President & CEO of FCA, where he is responsible for the multi-service human service organization with more than 200 staff. Rob has developed key partnerships in the community while also establishing formal relationships with numerous private and corporate foundations.
Rob, a licensed clinical social worker, is currently on the Board and Executive Committee of the Connecticut Council of Family Service Agencies (CCFSA). Rob has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Syracuse University and a master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University. He is also a certified marriage and family therapist and a certified alcoholism counselor.
