Part 1 of the Centering Sustainability Through Community Engagement Series

When we think of sustainability, we often think about how our prevention efforts will live on in our communities after our work ends. But what exactly is our role as prevention professionals in sustaining substance misuse prevention efforts? How do we engage our communities such that prevention becomes embedded in community culture? And, recognizing the growing interest in fostering community belonging in the field, how can we help our partners see themselves as integral members of our collaborative groups with the power to make real and sustainable impact?

Join us for the interactive two-part series that will unpack the connections between community engagement, ownership, belonging and sustainability. During part one, we will explore how prevention practitioners can enhance sustainability through cultivating key partners’ sense of ownership over community prevention initiatives.

Attending both sessions is not necessary but will enhance your learning experience.

Presenter bios:
Tracy Desovich, MPH, CPS - Tracy has over 30 years of experience in substance abuse prevention and public health. Her expertise includes community health assessment, planning, organizing and evaluation, leadership development, utilizing data to mobilize change, social norms marketing and healthy communities’ principles.

Debra Morris, MPH - is a results-driven, people-centered professional who brings over 40 years of public health experience to improve population health. She leverages expertise in system strengthening, trauma-informed practices, training, technical assistance, and coalition building to develop culturally responsive interventions. Debra guides agencies with evidence-based and culturally competent prevention strategies to optimize and enhance service delivery models. She is praised for her ability to mobilize diverse stakeholders in the development of community-centered solutions and utilizing effective methods to address health disparities.