The Mission Behind The Zach Project: 2024, a Year in Review

A Personal Quest to Educate and Inspire Change

Last year, I embarked on a new journey—a mission to educate communities about Substance Use Disorder (SUD), with a particular focus on Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), a crisis that continues to claim countless lives. My goal was to speak to groups of all demographics—students, parents, and community members—who wanted to learn more about this critical issue.

To further this mission, I decided to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to substance use awareness. After months of effort (and what felt like pulling teeth), we officially received our 501(c)(3) status. Today, we are proud to operate as The Humane Organization for Substance Awareness, Inc., also known as The Zach Project.

Building a Foundation for Change

We have made remarkable progress. I developed a presentation, titled “It’s Not You Until It’s You,” with the help of collaborators, and I have delivered it to several schools in Nassau and Suffolk Counties. After each session, I collect feedback from attendees—students, parents, and educators alike—because improving the presentation is an ongoing priority.

Through persistent outreach, including marketing efforts and support from former colleagues, we have expanded our reach. We’ve gained recognition in numerous school districts and were honored to have our materials shared with The Nassau County Council of School Superintendents. This led to an invitation to join their Mental Health Committee and to present at the Nassau BOCES Mental Health Consortium (MHC).

Student and Community Feedback

The impact of our presentations is reflected in the feedback we’ve received. Students and adults alike have shared how our sessions have resonated with them:

From Students:

“We can be more understanding and supportive of others and discourage drug use by raising awareness through programs and events like these.”

“This presentation was very effective at covering the negative effects of drug use. The slides and videos had many interesting points.”

“We need to work as a community to address bullying and peer pressure, two major factors that lead people to try substances for the first time.”

“I will remember that no means no, and no one should pressure you into taking anything without knowing the consequences.”

“It was very well done—engaging, impactful, and left a lasting impression.”

From Educators:

Steven Carpaneto, Guidance Counselor, H. Frank Carey Jr.-Sr. High School:
“Harris Insler’s ‘It’s Not You Until It’s You’ presentation was informative, interactive, and powerful. Harris has the unique ability to combine humor and compassion with impactful stories of loss and decision-making. His presentation continues to resonate with our students, and I highly recommend him to any school seeking to provide crucial, potentially life-saving information.”

CB Manhasset CASA:
“Harris Insler’s visit was deeply impactful. His honest and passionate approach underscored the devastating consequences of substance use while emphasizing the importance of destigmatizing mental health and supporting those who struggle.”

Moving Forward

The Zach Project’s mission is clear: to educate, inspire, and support individuals in the fight against substance use disorder. By fostering understanding and encouraging community involvement, we hope to create lasting change.

We invite schools, community organizations, and individuals to join us in spreading this vital message. Together, we can make a difference.