McDowell Partnership for Substance Aware ness Inc

Advocacy. Published a coloring book, for Elementary School children that is available on Amazon, Sassy Learns Lessons ISBN 97-98866173563. The text of the book is presented in English and Spanish. The purpose of the book is to assist parents to have conversations with children about substance use and the importance of making healthy choices. The book is the first in a planned series of revenue producing products. Harm-Reduction/Safety. The SME Partners requested board approval to launch two (2) evidence-based initiatives: placement of six (6) Rescue Boxes and six (6) Sharps Collection Containers in selected locations across McDowell County. These projects involve physical equipment placement along with detailed process and procedure manuals. The board approved the project proposed by the SMEs. Both projects are scheduled to officially launch in January 2024. Sustained Recovery. Collaborated with the Impact peer support teams Recovery Community Center opening to create a library corner, provide instruments, and sponsor seats at an Art for Wellbeing Workshop at the Arrowhead Gallery in Old Fort. Sobriety is attained through hard work, focus, making connections, and becoming engaged in a trusted community. MPSA contributions to the RCC address self-care which is a critical component of transformation and long-term recovery. Prevention. MPSA provided flashlights and substance awareness buttons to support McDowell Youth Forward work during Red Ribbon Week. This national awareness program focuses on elementary and middle school children and provides information for parents. Information and student engagement encourage early conversations about the dangers of taking medicines not prescribed by a healthcare professional or accepting ingestible items from people they do not know or trust. (Children impacted by SUD is staggering across McDowell County as evidenced by the number of children being raised by grandparents or other family members due to parental issues with substance use, including incarceration, homelessness, and death.) Treatment. During 2023 MPSA identified individuals who wanted to expand their credentials in community work, such as becoming peer support specialists, community health workers, or attending various classes to expand their training. MPSA paid fees for classes, books, and registration for selected individuals. MPSA plans a pilot project to expand this service through partnership with McDowell Technical Community College, NC Works, and other partner agencies. Awareness. MPSA staff and volunteers supported or sponsored community events led by the Partners. Events included: Juneteenth, Overdose Awareness Day, and Community Resource Fairs. MPSA organized and led the Blue Ridge Recovery Rally effort, which transitioned from a Marion Main Street event to a community event held at Tom Johnsons Rally Park. At the core of these events, MPSA provided information about various substances, available services to address substance use challenges, and created opportunities to share success stories.