As a school counselor and volunteer in the community, Denise Richards sees firsthand how drugs and alcohol impact youth.Now she and other members of the Warren County Alcohol/Drug Reduction Support coalition, also referred to as W.A.R.S., are wanting to spread the message.The group is hosting “Wake Up, Warren County,” a community education event Tuesday, March 1, designed to inform parents and youth about the dangers children are facing.The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. at Black Hawk Middle School, located at 300 Kuhl Ave. in Warrenton. Doors open at 6 p.m.“I encourage people to come out,” said Richards, who noted the meeting is open to all ages.“We would like to educate and inform parents of the substances being used in the community by youth and some family members, and how it is impacting the community and how it can impact the youth’s future,” she said.Circuit Judge Wes Dalton and Warrenton Police Chief Greg Houdyshell are scheduled to speak about the changes they have seen over the years and experiences encountered related to drug and alcohol abuse.Others on the agenda are Chris Allen, a National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse (NCADA) counselor, and two youth currently in recovery who will share stories of the impact their choices have had on their lives.A number of organizations and agencies, such as Crider Health Center, Youth In Need, Preferred Family Healthcare and Bridgeway Behavioral Health, will have resources available for attendees.Free childcare services provided by members of the National Junior Honor Society will be available. Free pizza also will be served.In addition, attendance prizes will be awarded and a drawing for a free teen party at Jordan’s Place, a new youth center on Main Street in Warrenton, will be held.The W.A.R.S. coalition, comprised of professional and community members, was formed last year after multiple fatal heroin overdoses were reported. In recent years, heroin use has exploded across the state and country. Members meet monthly to talk about ways to raise awareness.This is the first community event coalition members are hosting.“Each time the community is impacted, whether it’s an overdose or whether it’s somebody recognizing there is a substance abuse problem, we get them to join our team,” Richards said.For more information, contact Richards at richardsdl@warrencor3.k12.mo.us or 636-456-690 or visit the W.A.R.S. coalition Facebook page.‘Wake Up, Warren County’When: Tuesday, March 1Where: Black Hawk Middle School, 300 Kuhl Ave., WarrentonTime: Doors open at 6 p.m., program starts at 6:30 p.m.Overview: The event is designed to inform youth and parents about the dangers children are facing, such as substance/alcohol abuse and peer pressure. Free childcare services will be provided."Wake Up, Warren County"