Teen Health Connection graduates reflect on years of leadership training
Charlotte organization marks milestone as 10 teen advisory board members earn diplomas
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – More than 10,000 students graduated from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district this year, including two participants from Teen Health Connection who spent years preparing for the moment.
Sophey Cherry and Cameron Miller attended weekly sessions with Teen Health Connection every Tuesday for several years before receiving their diplomas. Both took a pledge to stay away from alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs — and said they kept it.
Facing peer pressure
Cherry said the pressure to participate in risky behavior was constant throughout high school.
“I feel as though peer pressure happens around you all the time,” Cherry said. “I will say as a high school student, I have gone to parties and sometimes there is underage drinking.”
Miller said the consequences of those choices were visible among his peers.
“What you do can tend to follow you — impact your future,” Miller said. “Personally, for me, I do know people who have gotten involved with that stuff, and they’ve gotten in big trouble. Recently, one of my former classmates got locked up.”
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 1.86 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 reported using an illicit drug within a month. By 12th grade, nearly 37 percent have tried an illegal substance at least once.
About Teen Health Connection
Teen Health Connection has operated in the Charlotte community for more than 30 years. The organization accepts students as young as 11. Participants read about the latest trends, learn about the dangers of drug use, and focus on mental health. Students also develop activities and videos to spread awareness.
Cherry said the program helped her navigate a personal health challenge.
“In my junior year of high school, I was diagnosed with major depressive disorder, and I’ve been able to empower myself and empower others through that,” Cherry said.
She produced a video about depression to reach others who may be struggling.
“Some ways I have overcome peer pressure – was staying true to myself and staying resilient and learning and understanding that I need to be a leader for myself and for my community,” Cherry said.
Read the full article:
https://www.wbtv.com/2026/07/02/teen-health-connection-graduates-reflect-years-leadership-training/
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