Sanilac County, Mich. – The Healthy Living Together series returns with a powerful session aimed at helping parents and caregivers spot the signs of risky behaviors—often overlooked because they’re “Hidden in Plain Sight.”
This engaging and eye-opening event will take place on Wednesday, September 17, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in the McKenzie Health System Dining Room, 120 Delaware Street, Sandusky, MI 48471. Attendees can enjoy lunch for $5, and a virtual option via Zoom is available for those who prefer to join remotely.
The session will be led by Stephanie L. Ludington, B.S., Prevention Specialist with the Sanilac County Health Department, who will walk participants through the HIPS Kit (Hidden in Plain Sight Kit)—a tool designed to educate adults about seemingly ordinary objects that may actually signal substance use or other concerning behaviors.
From lockboxes disguised as books to unexpected combinations of everyday items like lighters and money, the kit offers real examples of how warning signs can be easily missed in a typical teen’s bedroom. The presentation encourages awareness, early detection, and informed conversations with youth.
“Most parents wouldn’t think twice about seeing a book or a pile of clothes—but when you look closer, those everyday items could be sending a different message,” said Stephanie Ludington. “Our goal is to help adults recognize those clues and feel empowered to take action.”
The event is free and open to the public. To register for either in-person or virtual attendance, please visit www.McKenzieHealth.org/Healthy-Living and follow the instructions on the event page for your preferred option, or call 810-648-6127.
Healthy Living Together is a collaborative project developed by McKenzie Health System in partnership with the Sanilac County Health Department, MSU Extension, Great Start Collaborative Sanilac, and Sanilac County Community Mental Health. The series is designed to offer helpful tools, knowledge, and resources that support the health and wellness of individuals and families throughout Sanilac County.
Join us on September 17 to learn how you can uncover the signs that may be hidden in plain sight—and help protect the young people in your life. For more information about the Healthy Living Together series, please visit www.McKenzieHealth.org/Healthy-Living or call 810-648-6127.
