Vive18 Presentation at Waitsburg Secondary

WAITSBURG ­ ­- Waitsburg students enjoyed a presentation by Tomas Barraz, a Vive18 co-founder and national speaker, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The day began with an assembly for students in grades 9-12, followed by a second presentation for students in grades 6-8. 

Barraz spent his lunch break empowering students in the Natural Helpers club to continue efforts, create sober social spaces, and shift school culture from the inside out.

Growing up in a small rural community, Tomas saw the destruction of drug use. As an advocate passionate about recovery and second chances, he helped create Vive18.

The mission of Vive18 is to provide students with healthy alternatives to substance use, foster genuine connections, and empower youth to make positive life choices. Vive18 designs programs that meet students where they are, speak their language, and create real connections. 

"Tomas engaged students with high-energy storytelling, interaction, music, and participation to create memorable and empowering experiences," said School Counselor Rosy Nechodom. "He spoke openly about his personal story of taking 'shortcuts to comfort' through vaping, marijuana/THC, alcohol, fentanyl, and prescription drugs. He challenged students to develop the necessary 'skill set' for future success instead of settling for shortcuts," continued Nechodom.

The founders of Vive18 say their work is research-based and grounded in personal experience and an understanding of the pressures students face. 

"Scare tactics don't work. Shame doesn't work. And outdated "just say no" messaging definitely doesn't work.

That's why Vive18 exists," as stated on vive18.com.