The sixth annual National APALD Family Safety Jam was held in Albany Friday, May 1.
The event was part of a nationwide effort focused on illicit drug prevention and education. This was the first time it has been held in Albany. APALD (the Association of People Against Lethal Drugs) is a 501(c)(3) national nonprofit dedicated to drug prevention, education, and family support. More information can be found at weareapald.org.
Bringing this event to Albany marked a significant moment, as families, teens, and community leaders came together to address the growing impact of illicit drugs in our region, said Lydia Kariakin, Albany APALD coordinator.
“This was more than an event – it was a community response,” she said in a statement.
Attendees heard firsthand from community leaders and families personally impacted. Speakers included:
- Kariakin, who opened the event with a personal reflection that included a brief tribute to her brother, Luke, who died on Valentine’s Day in 2021 after unknowingly taking a pill that was laced with illicit fentanyl;
- Sarah Vail, a mother who shared the story of losing her daughter, McKenzie Vail, to fentanyl poisoning;
- Trinity Ronan, a fentanyl poisoning survivor, who shared her experience alongside her mother, Karissa Ronan, who spoke in support of her daughter;
- Linn County District Attorney Doug Marteeny, who presented local statistics, trends, and insights on the impact of illicit drugs in our community;
- Representatives from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), who provided prevention education and resources; and
- Albany Mayor Alex Johnson II, who spoke about the importance of community awareness and action.
The event also featured a memorial table where attendees could write messages honoring loved ones lost, as well as a DEA resource table offering educational materials and support resources for families.
The gathering created space for education, lived experience, and community connection, ending with an open mic session where individuals shared their stories and encouraged others to speak out.