Educational Outreach Presentation
A foundational part of what we do at Mateo’s Message includes educating the public on the dangers of fentanyl, prevention methods, and harm reduction resources. In this case, our team presented multiple sessions to over 100 cadets for the Challenge Academy at Fort McCoy in Tomah, Wisconsin. Reaching young people before they face high-stakes decisions is one of the most powerful ways to save lives, and it’s why we make education a cornerstone of our mission.
Woodbury YMCA Harm Reduction Box Installation
On October 10 2026, we were able to install and celebrate the addition of a new harm reduction box at the Woodbury YMCA. Family, friends, and even first responders were able to attend the event, contributing to another step towards safer communities. Tara Monack, executive director of the Woodbury YMCA said,
“The Y is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our communities. Making life-saving resources accessible is one way we can care for one another and help ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
Woodbury Days 2026
Woodbury Days was full of great conversations, and we were honored to be part of it this year. We spent the weekend at our Community Connections booth, sharing overdose safety and prevention resources alongside Narcan, fentanyl test strips, and information about our Harm Reduction Boxes. It meant so much to talk with neighbors, answer questions, and connect people with Mateo’s Message. Thank you to everyone who stopped by, asked questions, and helped us spread awareness!
Stock the Box 2026
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 3rd Annual Stock the Box event, held in honor of Mateo Swanson. We enjoyed games, food, drinks, a raffle, and a brief presentation, and we were grateful for everyone who brought Narcan, fentanyl test strips, or a cash donation. All proceeds went directly to stocking Mateo’s Message Harm Reduction Boxes. We also had the chance to share memories and photos of Mateo together. Those who knew him will never forget him, but you didn’t need to know him personally to have celebrated him at this event.
St. Croix River Dunk 2026
Mateo’s Message supporters took the dunk! On Saturday, February 7th, 2026, the Hudson Rotary Club hosted its annual St. Croix River Dunk, and Mateo’s Message teammembers used the Dunk’s platform to raise funds to support the Mateo’s Message mission- “To educate and equip recreational users with tools that can reduce the number of lives taken by fentanyl”. The raised funds allow for the purchase and distribution of fentanyl test strips and naloxone (brand name Narcan) around the Twin Cities and surrounding communities.
