LP Coordinates with BNParents.org (Chestnut Health Systems)/Project Oz in Environmental Scan

Thursday, July 10th, 2025

This past week, The Lumina Project partnered with BNParents.org and Project Oz to conduct Environmental Scans throughout the Bloomington-Normal area. These scans involved carefully observing and documenting local environments—such as grocery stores, gas stations, smoke shops, and other high-traffic areas—to identify how and where youth may be exposed to messaging around substance use. From overt advertisements to subtle product placements, we aimed to capture a snapshot of the settings where adolescents might encounter cues that normalize or encourage alcohol, marijuana, nicotine, and other substances.

Two Examples of Eye-catching Advertisement in Downtown Bloomington, IL

Through this initiative, our team gathered images and data that reveal just how embedded these messages can be in everyday spaces. In some cases, bright, cartoon-labeled packaging was placed at children's eye level; in others, window signage glamorized vaping or boasted deals on liquor in ways that could easily catch a teen’s attention. These environmental factors—often overlooked—can play a major role in shaping young people’s perceptions and choices, especially when not counterbalanced by clear, informed guidance from the adults in their lives.

A Collection of Photos taken by Observation Teams

By engaging in these efforts, The Lumina Project hopes to equip parents, educators, and community advocates with greater awareness and actionable insight. When we understand the spaces our youth move through, we can better support them in making healthy, informed decisions. While this realm of community engagement contrasts with our preliminary goals of medical product distribution, it nevertheless upholds our commitment to improving health outcomes, by any means available, within the place we call home. This collaboration with BNParents and Project Oz is just one more step in our ongoing mission to promote education, prevention, and empowerment in the fight against adolescent substance use.