SWAMPSCOTT — Both parents and community members are invited to participate in an opioid awareness presentation hosted by speaker Matthew Bocchi on Nov. 14, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., located at the auditorium at Swampscott High School.

The event, hosted by the joint efforts of both Swampscott public schools and the town’s Board of Health, seeks to spread awareness on the dangers of addiction and the accompanying warning signs for parents to keep an eye on.

Bocchi’s speech centers around grappling with the terrible loss of his father on 9/11, along with his subsequent battles with substance abuse, where he walks students, faculty and parents through the journey he took to find peace and sobriety. He also discusses his challenges with trauma and how he overcame both depression and PTSD.

“I was fortunate enough to attend Mr. Bocchi’s presentation with the high school students last year,” said former Superintendent Pamela Angelakis in the press release. “His message was powerful, and he connected with students and held their attention throughout his presentation. We are so fortunate and grateful to have him return this year.”

After Bocchi concludes his speech, community members are invited to participate in what’s called the “Hidden in Plain Sight” simulation, an interactive exercise that highlights 15 or more objects in a teen’s bedroom that are commonly associated with substance use. Participants are encouraged to seek out the objects located around the room which could hide different substances or paraphernalia in plain sight, as a worthwhile means to open up a broader discussion about the issue.

Bocchi’s speech to community members and the interactive “Hidden in Plain Sight” simulation will both be free and open to the public. The event was made possible through the Swampscott Board of Health and the Opioid Settlement Funds.

This event marks the second return of Bocchi to Swampscott schools as he continues his efforts to speak out on behalf of addiction and the importance of mental health. Bocchi previously came to the High School on March 11, 2024, to which he drummed up an overwhelming reaction among the student-body as they eagerly anticipated his eventual return. Earlier on Nov. 14, Bocchi will also be speaking with seventh and eighth graders in attempt to share his story with wider audiences.

“We believe that prevention education, as well as raising awareness and understanding, are important steps,” said Neia Illingworth, Public Health Nurse for the Swampscott Health Department in the press release. “These programs will provide valuable insights as well as support for parents, community members, and those that have been and continue to be affected by the opioid epidemic.”