Home > 2024 Needs Assessment Survey Findings
By Cassandra Knutson, Mid-America PTTC Co-Director
To determine the greatest need for training and technical assistance in support of the prevention workforce in Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri, the Mid-America Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC) Evaluation Team developed and administered an online training and technical assistance Needs Assessment survey that was distributed in October of 2024 to each of the four states in Region 7: Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri.
During the data collection period, a total of 90 surveys were started: 72 respondents completed the survey and 9 others partially completed the survey. The distribution across the four states serviced by the Mid-America PTTC was: 42 from Iowa, 20 from Nebraska, 9 from Missouri, and 7 from Kansas.
Many survey respondents work in rural areas, while 31.25% work in urban areas, 12.50% in suburban areas, and 13.75% in other settings. The organizations represented address various substances including opioids, alcohol, marijuana, and stimulants and they engage with diverse populations, including youth, families, and at-risk or underserved populations.
The respondents have varied experience in the field of substance use/misuse. Notably, 32.50% percent of respondents hold, or have previously held, certification or licensure status in the field of substance use/misuse and a majority of respondents have worked in the field for over 10 years.
Key training and technical assistance needs identified by the survey respondents included:
When asked about relevant training courses or curriculum for their roles or organization related to substance use/misuse prevention services, respondents suggested the following:
The 2024 Region 7 Needs Assessment Report underscores the importance of addressing these training and technical assistance needs to empower prevention professionals and enhance the capacity of local communities to implement, and sustain, impactful substance misuse prevention programs. By focusing on these key areas, the Mid-America PTTC aims to foster partnerships, improve the infrastructure supporting prevention strategies, and ultimately contribute to healthier and safer communities throughout Region 7.
For a detailed view of the findings and insights, you can access the full report: 2024 Needs Assessment_Full Report
For questions about the Needs Assessment, please contact Cassandra at [email protected].