From Grief to Action: Levi Schaner's Fent Prevent Movement

A Defining Moment

For many, a personal tragedy can be paralyzing. For Las Vegas high school student Levi Schaner, the devastating loss of his cousin, Eli, became an urgent call to action. Eli's death from a counterfeit pill containing fentanyl illuminated a grim reality for Levi: young people were dangerously uninformed about the hidden perils lurking in what appeared to be harmless substances. “His death changed how I saw the crisis,” Schaner reflects. “I realized that young people need clear, honest information because a pill can look real and still be deadly.” This stark revelation wasn't just a moment of grief; it was the genesis of Fent Prevent, a youth-led nonprofit dedicated to equipping teens with life-saving knowledge.

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Schaner witnessed firsthand the critical need for direct, peer-to-peer education. He understood that waiting for others to address the burgeoning crisis was not an option. Instead, he channeled his pain into purpose, initiating conversations and building Fent Prevent one school and community connection at a time. It was this proactive stance, born from a profound personal experience, that laid the groundwork for a movement now making a tangible difference in the lives of countless young people.

The Power of One Conversation

The idea of transforming an overwhelming problem into manageable steps is central to Schaner’s philosophy. He didn’t wait for a grand solution; he started with what he could control: communication. For Fent Prevent, this often begins with a simple conversation. Schaner recalls a particularly impactful exchange after a presentation: “A simple conversation with one student after a presentation may have had the biggest impact.” This student, having absorbed the critical information, later chose to test a pill offered to them – a decision that unequivocally saved their life when the test came back positive for fentanyl.

This single interaction underscored the profound power of direct engagement and clear, accessible information. It proved that even the smallest outreach, when delivered authentically, can resonate deeply enough to alter a life's trajectory. Schaner’s approach demonstrates that prevention isn't about fear-mongering; it's about empowerment through knowledge, fostering a culture where young people feel confident in making informed, safe choices.

Building Beyond the Blueprint

Fent Prevent’s growth is a testament to Schaner’s belief that monumental change often begins with incremental steps. He advises those looking to make a difference to “Start with one conversation and one clear goal. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you begin.” This pragmatic outlook has allowed Fent Prevent to flourish, expanding its reach through partnerships with local schools and community organizations across Nevada. The organization doesn’t just deliver facts; it fosters a supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking tough questions and sharing what they’ve learned with their friends.

Schaner’s definition of success has also evolved. While he still envisions Fent Prevent reaching a broad audience, he recognizes the immense value of individual impact. “Right now, success means a young person has the information to pause, avoid taking a pill that wasn’t prescribed to them, and get help if someone is in danger,” he explains. This shift highlights a mature understanding that true success lies not just in scale, but in the profound, often invisible, moments where education directly intersects with critical decisions.

Inspiring a Movement of Peers

Schaner finds immense inspiration in the very community he serves. The young people he meets through Fent Prevent — those who engage deeply, ask challenging questions, and commit to looking out for their friends — are a constant source of motivation. Their willingness to confront difficult topics and advocate for safety within their peer groups fuels his commitment. These student leaders embody the very ethos of Fent Prevent: that change can, and often does, begin from within.

Looking ahead, Schaner is building towards a future where every student receives comprehensive, age-appropriate education about fentanyl and counterfeit pills. This means expanding Fent Prevent's partnerships throughout Nevada, strengthening its youth ambassador programs, and empowering more teens to become confident, knowledgeable advocates. Schaner’s ultimate goal is to proactively arm young people with the information they need, ensuring they are prepared long before they ever encounter a dangerous situation. His journey from personal loss to powerful advocacy is a poignant reminder that even in the face of profound grief, collective action and education can forge a path toward a safer future.