Though it might not go as far as it used to, a million dollars can have a significant impact depending on how it’s distributed. While it also won’t solve systemic issues, if focused just right, it could make a real difference in supporting long-term initiatives or assisting struggling small-scale projects.
Since I am sick to death of hearing about kids shooting up schools and nothing being done about it besides people advocating for stricter gun laws, this is what I am thinking:
While $1 million isn’t enough to even put a dent in the amount of propaganda backing the pharmaceutical industry (most, if not all, school shooters have been on Prozac or some kind of antidepressant and/or ADHD medication), I would allocate my hypothetical funding to the heart of the issue.
Drug awareness programs don’t do a damned thing and, like guns, are not even the real issue. Guns and drugs are not the problem. Young people use drugs and guns to remedy the pain that lies within. Yes, they are two different things, and while one seems more extreme than the other, both ultimately hurt others and the user.
What kids lack today are resources and means to deal with inner issues. We don’t need awareness programs but services. Therefore, this money would be used to implement mental health screening and counseling services in schools, targeting students exposed to trauma and addiction. Early intervention can prevent PTSD symptoms from worsening and can address addiction risk before it escalates.
It would also be used to fund programs that educate teachers, parents, and community members about recognizing trauma and addiction in students and how to intervene in supportive ways.
By partnering with existing mental health or addiction recovery programs to create wrap-around services for students, they would be ensured holistic care that addresses all aspects of their well-being. These could include medical treatment, counseling, mentorship, and family support.
Trauma impacts entire families, not just the individual. So offering family therapy can help parents and siblings understand PTSD, support recovery, and foster a healing environment at home.
By focusing on the heart of the issue, this money could give students suffering from inner trauma the resources they need that help prevent them from picking up a drug or a gun to deal with their problems.
A million dollars used in this way would only be enough for a city or local community but would be enough to set an example for others to mimic and build.
It would also be enough to plug the mugs of these whiny progressives who are impeding my Second Amendment rights.
Allevi8ed Writing 
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