Community Involvement in Substance use Prevention

It’s possible to prevent substance use, but it requires the involvement of the entire community. When neighbors, local organizations, schools, and community leaders work together, they can create a supportive environment that promotes healthy behavior.

Community outreach is the backbone of PARS’ mission to prevent substance use and promote resilience. Treatment and recovery resources are essential, but research shows that community-led prevention efforts can be just as effective.

Why Community Involvement Matters

Substance use disorders are a serious public health issue, affecting everyone from individuals and families to schools, businesses, and the broader community. 

By involving the community in our prevention efforts, PARS is building a network of trusting relationships to support those in need. Engaged communities create environments where substance use is less likely to occur, and where people feel supported when seeking help.

How PARS Engages the Community

PARS engages the community in several ways. These include public education events, collaborations with local organizations, and training for community members.

• Public Education Events: We regularly participate in community events to educate people about the risks of substance use. These events provide valuable information on topics such as the dangers of opioids, the importance of Naloxone, and how to spot signs of substance use in loved ones.
• Collaborations with Local Organizations: By working with schools, law enforcement, healthcare providers, and other local organizations, PARS is creating a network of support. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures that people who need help have access to the resources they require.
• Naloxone Distribution and Training: One of the most impactful ways we engage the community is by offering Naloxone, a life-saving drug that can reverse opioid overdoses. PARS provides training on how to use Naloxone and distributes it for free, helping to reduce the number of overdose deaths in the community.
• Substance Misuse Task Force:  This task force is lead by the PARS team.  The focus in on addressing the needs around substance misuse and abuse in our community.  The task force is an arm of Live Well Shawnee County.  The group meets every other month, and is committed to improving education and reducing risks for those in our community specifically involving substances.  If you are interested in joining the task force, we would love to have you at the table.  Please send an email to info@parstopeka.org for more information.

The Role of Families in Community-Led Prevention

Families are often the first line of defense when it comes to substance use prevention, since they’re typically the closest support system for people who may be at risk. We offer family education programs that empower parents and caregivers with the knowledge and resources they need.

Our programs teach parents and caregivers how to recognize the signs of substance use, understand how to talk to their children about substances, and know where to turn for help. When families take an active role in community-led prevention efforts, it strengthens the support systems available to individuals at risk of substance use.