Past Events

An in-person training in partnership with       Overview The Introduction to the Prevention Core Competencies for Prevention Professionals is a three-day, in-person, training that covers the foundations of substance use prevention science for early and mid-career prevention professionals. By taking this training, you will be able to expand your knowledge and skills in the field of prevention and ultimately enhance your ability to make a positive impact in your community. The course covers a wide variety of topics including prevention science, community organization, needs & resource assessment, evidence-based interventions, and more. The Prevention Core Competencies and accompanying knowledge, skills, and abilities offer professional direction to the prevention field, affecting staff development, career ladders, and pipelines, and providing guidance for training programs and service delivery qualification. The curriculum utilizes evidence-based strategies for adult learning; and builds upon and complements existing workforce training curricula and resources (SPF Application for Prevention Success Training (SAPST), Foundations of Prevention Science and Practice Curriculum, and Universal Prevention Curriculum). Learning Objectives By the end of this training, participants will be able to Describe the key elements of prevention planning and evaluation. Define core prevention professional knowledge, skills, and competencies. Acknowledge the importance of research-based theories and processes that help explain and build effective prevention interventions, and Describe how evidence-based (EB) prevention strategies can be delivered across settings including the family, school, media, community, or workplace.   Virtual Trainer of Trainers coming Summer 2025! Looking to become a trainer for this curriculum? Join our Virtual Training of Trainers (TOT) session in 2025! To qualify, participants must have over three years of experience in substance misuse prevention and have completed the 16-hour in-person or virtual Prevention Core Competencies training within the past three years. The 6-hour self-paced online course version does not meet TOT requirements.   Location This is an in-person training and will take place at: 2625 Augustine Drive, Room 125 Santa Clara, CA 95054 Dates and Times March 18, 2025, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm March 19, 2025, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm March 20, 2025, 8:30 am - 3:00 pm   Who Should Participate Community, tribal, jurisdiction, and state-level substance misuse prevention practitioners and allied health partners located in the Pacific Southwest region, including American Samoa, Arizona, California, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.   Facilitators Alicia Hughes is a Washington State Certified Prevention Professional (CPP) and has been working in the prevention field since the 2010s. Starting in California, she supported individuals with technical assistance and training to obtain their state certifications in addiction counseling. From 2018 to 2024, Alicia led the Washington State substance use disorder prevention workforce system, assisting with implementing prevention trainings and leading the WA State Fellowship Program. Now, Alicia works with Thurston County to plan and implement chronic disease and substance use prevention programming, in addition to continuing to support the Region 10 PTTC’s prevention workforce system. Debby Jones is a Certified Prevention Specialist and the Prevention Director for Wasco County and YouthThink in the state of Oregon. She also serves as the counties Overdose Prevention Coordinator. Jones received her BS Degree from Brigham Young University. She currently serves as the Chair for the State of Oregon’s Addiction and Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council and the Vice-Chair of Oregon’s Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Commission. She is a Board Member of the 4 Rivers Early Learning Hub as well as the Oregon Coalition of Prevention Professionals and a member of the Northwest Prevention Technology Transfer Center’s Advisory Council. Jones is also an active member of Fairplay for Kids and their On-line Harms subcommittee. She is a certified QPR, and SAMHSA’s Prevention Core Competencies Instructor. Jones is the Co-Creator of T2T Connection, a resiliency resource for children, teens and parents. Cost  Registration for this event is FREE! Participants are responsible for their own travel and lodging expenses.   Certificates Participants who complete the entire training will receive a certificate of attendance for 16 contact hours. No partial credit is given for this training. Participants will need to confirm with their certification board to determine if these certification hours are accepted towards their specific certification requirements.   To Register Register Here for Introduction to the Prevention Core Competencies for Prevention Professionals Questions? For any questions, please contact Britany Wiele at ([email protected]).

Moving from Awareness to Action: Leveraging the 2025 Alcohol Awareness Toolkit for Public Health Session Description In honor of National Alcohol Awareness Month this April, PTTC Region 10 proudly introduces its enhanced toolkit—a dynamic resource designed to empower prevention and public health leaders to broaden their impact in preventing excessive alcohol consumption. Join our Spotlight Consultation to unlock a clear, actionable roadmap for strategically leveraging these resources. Discover how to extend your influence beyond traditional coalition stakeholders and capture the attention of key decisionmakers, driving real change in your community. Date & Time Monday, March 17, 2025 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm Alaska 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm Pacific 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm Mountain (View in your time zone) Audience Prevention practitioners, allied health partners and community members working to prevent substance misuse in tribes, communities, and states in HHS Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington).   Presenters Cassandra Tourre brings 20 years of expertise in alcohol policy, encompassing public health, regulation, enforcement, and marketing. She has led statewide and national initiatives to implement and assess strategies addressing excessive alcohol consumption. With a career spanning small prevention nonprofits, regulatory trade associations, large public health institutions, and the private technology sector, Cassandra offers a unique perspective on building partnerships and leveraging relationships to advance complex policy initiatives.   Cyndy Hillier has been working in prevention since 2011. A graduate of CADCA's National Coalition Academy, she was part of the first cohort for CASAT/PTTC/CADCA's Coalition Business Administration certification. She is on the Oregon Coalition of Prevention Professionals (OCPP) Executive Leadership Team, advocating for youth and families. Cyndy is also a City Councilor for Tualatin and a dedicated softball mom. She, her husband, and their dog Charlie have lived in Tualatin, OR for 26+ years.     2025 Alcohol Awareness Toolkit April is National Alcohol Awareness Month. To raise awareness about alcohol-related harms and the importance of alcohol policy safeguards, we have launched the Alcohol Awareness Toolkit: #ProofIsInTheNumbers. The Alcohol Awareness Toolkit seeks to do the following during the month of April: Raise awareness about alcohol-related harms and the importance of strong alcohol policies using memes, and Encourage engagement from prevention and public health stakeholders to strategically educate and inform decision makers about effective alcohol policies by providing easy-to-personalize, templated opinion editorials, letters to legislators and proclamations. We encourage our prevention partners to use the materials to raise awareness around the weekly themes to observe April as National Alcohol Awareness Month. Week 1: Alcohol-Related Harms (March 30-April 5) Week 2: Alcohol and Violence (April 6-12) Week 3: Alcohol and Cancer Risk (April 13-19) Week 4: Alcohol and Other Drugs (April 20-26) Week 5: Alcohol and Cancer Risk (April 27-May 3) View the Toolkit Here   Registration Register for Moving from Awareness to Action: Leveraging the 2025 Alcohol Awareness Toolkit for Public Health   COST: FREE!   Continuing Education Participants will receive a certificate of attendance of 1.5 hours for completion of this live webinar event. Questions Please contact Holly Simak ([email protected]) for any questions related to registration.  For any other questions, please contact Britany Wiele ([email protected]).

Virtual SAPST blends a self-paced online prerequisite course with live, interactive training sessions delivered via video conferencing. Rooted in the latest research and guided by SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF), this training equips participants with the core knowledge and practical skills needed to implement data-driven prevention strategies that enhance substance-related outcomes, address behavioral health disparities, and promote overall wellness. Important Details: Course Preparation Before attending the live sessions, participants must complete the Introduction to Substance Abuse Prevention: Understanding the Basics (a 5-hour self-paced online course). A certificate of completion must be submitted to [email protected] by March 10th. This is a strict requirement—without the certificate, entry to the course will not be granted. Course Capacity The training is limited to 30 participants. All applications will be reviewed, and selected participants will be notified of their acceptance. Once the 30-person limit is reached, registration will close. Registration closes March 10th. Participation Requirements Attendance at all four live training sessions and completion of the online prerequisite course is mandatory to receive a certificate. Participants must have a working microphone and camera for Zoom. Time Commitment The total training duration is 31 hours. Participants must complete the full SAPST to receive certification for the full 31 hours—partial credit will not be awarded. Contact Information For questions, reach out to Boone Schieffer, Mountain Plains PTTC, at [email protected]. Training Schedule Monday, March 17th- (10:00 am-4:00 pm CT/9:00 am-3:00 pm MT) Wednesday, March 19th- (10:00 am-4:00 pm CT/9:00 am-3:00 pm MT) Monday, March 24th- (10:00 am-4:00 pm CT/9:00 am-3:00 pm MT) Monday, March 31- (10:00 am-4:00 pm CT/9:00 am-3:00 pm MT) Learning Objectives The Virtual SAPST covers key areas in substance misuse prevention, including: Self-Paced Online Course: Introduction to Substance Abuse Prevention: Understanding the Basics Key terminology and fundamental concepts History of substance use and prevention in the U.S. The science of addiction and brain function Health effects and risks of alcohol, tobacco, and other substances Live Training Sessions: From Theory to Practice Overview of behavioral health The Spectrum of Mental, Emotional and Behavioral Interventions Public health approaches to prevention Risk and protective factors Developmental considerations in prevention strategies Practical Application: Using SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF) Steps of the SPF: assessment, capacity-building, planning, implementation, and evaluation Cultural competence in prevention work Strategies for sustainability Who Should Attend? This training is ideal for: Prevention professionals with less than five years of experience Members of community coalitions focused on substance use prevention Professionals in related fields seeking to enhance their knowledge Technical assistance providers supporting prevention initiatives Presenters: Michelle Majeres, B.A., CPS Technical Assistance Specialist 605-941-3326 |[email protected] | Telecommuter, Sioux Falls, SD Mrs. Majeres is an accomplished training and technical assistance (T/TA) provider with over 20 years of experience in substance use and suicide prevention. She has expertise in the design and delivery of both online and in-person training. She provides responsive and timely T/TA grounded in a strategic planning model that strengthens the capacity of clients to perform prevention work effectively. She possesses relevant experience in developing and implementing T/TA services to meet the needs of multiple clients to ensure their needs are met with quality and consistency. She provides training on the SPF Application for Prevention Success Training (SAPST) and several evidence-based interventions. Mrs. Majeres has provided T/TA to both regional coalitions and states on needs assessment, capacity building and strategic planning. Dodi Haug, B.S., CPS Dodi Haug is the Prevention Coordinator at the Northeastern Prevention Resource Center which is part of the state prevention system in South Dakota. The NEPRC is housed at Human Service Agency in Watertown, SD. Dodi is a Certified Prevention Specialist under the Board of Addiction and Prevention Professionals and has worked in the prevention field for over 25 years. Dodi graduated from NSU with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Dodi provides training and technical assistance in substance misuse prevention and mental health promotion. She is trained to deliver evidence-based prevention programs and practices such as ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training), Mental Health First Aid and Youth Mental Health First Aid, Overdose Lifelines, Interactive Journaling, Natural Helpers, SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions, QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), and SPF Application for Prevention Success Training (SAPST).  

In this comprehensive 6-hour training, supervisors of substance misuse prevention professionals will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively support and guide substance misuse prevention professionals in their roles. Grounded in the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Job Domains, this training will provide supervisors with practical tools and strategies to enhance their supervision practices. Participants will explore the core competencies of substance misuse prevention professionals, learn how to provide constructive feedback, and develop techniques for fostering professional growth and development within their teams. Through interactive discussions and case studies, supervisors will leave equipped to create a supportive and empowering work environment for prevention professionals. AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Understand the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Job Domains and their relevance to effective supervision. Develop and refine supervisory skills tailored to the unique needs of prevention professionals, including communication, feedback, and performance evaluation. Implement strategies to support the ongoing professional development and growth of prevention specialists through mentoring, coaching, and continuous learning opportunities. Promote the ethical considerations and standards that guide prevention professionals and ensure these are upheld in supervisory practices. Implement effective feedback mechanisms by providing constructive and actionable feedback that promotes improvement and professional excellence among prevention specialists. Implement techniques for building a positive and empowering work environment that fosters collaboration, motivation, and high performance within prevention teams.   DATES:  March 11 and 13, 2025, 12:00 PM–3:00 PM CT   CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training.   PRESENTER: Nicole M Augustine, MPH, MCHES Nicole M. Augustine, founder and CEO of RIZE Consultants Inc., is a pioneering public health innovator and advocate. Starting her career as a harm reduction counselor at Cornell University and advancing at George Washington University School of Public Health, Nicole has become a leading voice in substance use disorder prevention and social justice. Her work includes roles with the Strategic Prevention Technical Assistance Center, Opioid Response Network, the Prevention Technology Transfer Center, highlighting her dedication to effective, widespread public health solutions.   The Great Lakes PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders. Others outside this region are welcome to attend.

Date: March 6, 2025 Format: Webinar Time: 1:00 PM—2:00 PM EST Cost: FREE ABOUT THE LEARNING SESSION In 2017, Northern Light Mayo Hospital and Piscataquis Community Secondary School in Maine launched the Positive Action Team, a youth-led coalition designed to engage rural youth in prevention and school/community level change. Youth meetings are co-facilitated by a prevention specialist and a school representative. The weekly meetings are student-led and prevention-focused. Over the past 7 years, PAT teams have tackled public health areas such as substance use prevention, bullying, suicide prevention, mental health campaigns, student wellness, identity, and more. Please note: this webinar will not be recorded. PRESENTER Hillary Starbird, PS-C is the Director of Community Outreach and Philanthropy Officer for Northern Light Health, Mayo Hospital and Charles A. Dean Hospital. She has worked in rural healthcare in Northern and Central Maine for over 15 years. Hillary has held positions throughout the continuum of care in both rural hospitals and FQHC's. Her experience in the hospital and practice settings gives her a unique perspective on public health issues and community level change. Hillary's work focuses on community and public health issues related to improving the overall health well-being of the citizens who live, work and play in rural Piscataquis County, Maine.   About the webinar: This webinar is hosted by the New England Prevention Technology Transfer Center, a program funded through a cooperative agreement from SAMHSA. This webinar is pre-approved by the Maine Prevention Certification Board, an IC&RC member board, for 1 contact hour for prevention specialists. Certificates will be provided to webinar participants, no partial credit will be awarded.

This highly interactive session will focus on taking a deep dive into the substance misuse prevention code of ethics regarding how we can ensure we do no harm through the prevention strategies we select to implement in our communities. After a short presentation, participants will work in breakout rooms to gain ideas and share perspectives on this topic. The Deep Dive into Prevention Ethics series is for substance misuse prevention practitioners that have already completed a Foundations in Prevention Ethics training. If you would like to attend this series but have not yet completed the prevention ethics foundation course, complete the free, self-paced, online prevention ethics course on HealtheKnowledge before attending this ethics series. Important notes: In order to receive a certificate of attendance for this training, participants are required to actively participate and be on camera. Participants will be allowed into trainings up to 10 minutes after the start of the session. After that time, no new attendees will be accepted into the session because the group will have moved into breakout rooms. AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info Visit the series landing page for information and registration links for the other sessions in the series. Landing Page Link   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Heighten understanding and daily implementation of the code of ethics for prevention specialists Identify actions we can take that stay true to our code of ethics while advocating for substance misuse prevention   PRESENTER: Kris Reed (Gabrielsen), MPH, CPS Kris Reed is the co-director of the Great Lakes Prevention Technology Transfer Center. She has worked in the substance misuse prevention field for over 30 years. Kris co-authored the first Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist Training curriculum, and co-authored the textbook, Substance Abuse Prevention: The Intersection of Science and Practice. As a consultant, she has worked with states and communities across the nation to bridge the gap between research and practice, assisting prevention professionals in maximizing their effectiveness.   CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training. IC&RC PREVENTION DOMAIN: 6   The Great Lakes PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Cost: FREE Contact Hours:  Up to 5 for attending Parts 1-4 (Certificate of Attendance) Target Audience: Professionals or organizations; Community members (members of a community or consumers); Students or educators (including faculty, administrators, supervisors, etc.) Developed for: SAMHSA Region 3 Join us for our Grant Writing Series comprised of 3 webinars and 1 learning lab.  March 5: Grant Writing Session 1: Introduction to Grant Writing March 12: Grant Writing Session 2: Getting Your Grant Started March 19: Grant Writing Session 3: Common Grant Sections March 26: LAB Session   Grant Writing Session 1: Introduction to Grant Writing In this session, participants will learn introductory elements of grant writing. This session will introduce participants to grant terminology, where to find grant opportunities, and how to read grant announcements. LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Explain commonly used grant writing terminology Describe how and where to find grant opportunities appropriate for your organization Explore next steps when finding an application that is of interest Grant Writing Session 2: Getting Your Grant Started In this session, participants will learn how to read a grant announcement and create a plan for responding to a request for proposals (RFP). LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Examine how to determine eligibility for grant funding Explore best practices for building a grant writing team Discuss tips for making the grant writing process smooth Grant Writing Session 3: Common Grant Sections In this session, participants will learn about the most common grant application sections and how to address them. LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Explore some of the most common sections in grant applications Illustrate best practices for gathering data and making a compelling case for your community List skills for action planning LAB Session In addition to three seminars on grant writing, this series also includes a learning lab where participants will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge gained from the first three sessions through case studies and practical application of the content. LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this lab, participants will be able to: Apply the acquired grant writing skills to a case study. Identify agencies, websites, or other resources related to their grant concerns   PRESENTER Dan Webb is co-owner of Catalyst Research, LLC and Catalyst Insight, LLC. Dan has over eighteen years of experience writing and evaluating local, state, and national grants. In addition, he has over ten years of experience in business/organizational intelligence and analytics. His experience includes evaluation and research in education (elementary through post-secondary), youth substance use prevention, health and medicine, and housing and urban development. Dan holds a PhD in Sociology from the University at Buffalo.   *CONTACT HOUR ELIGIBILITY In order to be eligible for the contact hours/certificate of attendance, you must join the live webinar in the Zoom platform. If you are having issues accessing the room/application at the time of the event: Please email [email protected] at the start of the webinar so that we can assist you. ACCOMMODATIONS If you are in need of any special accommodations, please notify the Central East PTTC Webinar Team three weeks in advance of the event, or as soon as possible, by emailing [email protected].

  Cost: FREE Contact Hours: 1.25 (Certificate of Attendance) Target Audience: Professionals or organizations; Community members (members of a community or consumers); Students or educators (including faculty, administrators, supervisors, etc.) Developed for: SAMHSA Region 3 COURSE DESCRIPTION With the legalization of sports betting and increased access through mobile platforms, college students are at greater risk of problem gambling. This training is for young adults and those who work with young adults, focusing on the prevention of underage and problem gambling. This training will provide an overview of gambling expansion, an introduction to underage and problem gambling, an overview of Maryland’s problem gambling prevention grant programs, best practices in underage and problem gambling prevention strategies, and resources for help. Hear from representatives from Morgan State University, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and Frostburg State University who will provide information on gambling trends and prevention strategies implemented on college campuses. LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Identify why problem gambling is a public health concern for emerging adults. Review prevention grant programs, strategies implemented, and resources for help for problem gambling in the Central East region. Cite colleges and universities that implemented a problem gambling prevention grant last fiscal year. Identify strategies implemented on campuses, challenges faced, and greatest successes.   PRESENTER Heather Eshleman, MPH., is the Prevention Manager at the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling.  She works collaboratively with community organizations, schools, and government agencies to prevent underage and problem gambling as well as oversee special population and youth grants.  She currently leads the Center’s efforts in compiling an underage and problem gambling prevention needs assessment to provide baseline data to guide future prevention strategies.  She served as the Alcohol and Substance Abuse Prevention Supervisor at the Anne Arundel County Department of Health from 2006-2019, overseeing the Substance Abuse Prevention coalitions, the Opioid Misuse Prevention Program, the Strengthening Families Program, the Fatal Overdose Review Team, and Coordination of the Students Against Destructive Decisions Chapters.  Before becoming Supervisor, from 2002-2006, Heather was a Grants Administrator at Anne Arundel County Department of Health.  Heather received her Masters in Public Health from the University at Albany School of Public Health and her Bachelor’s degree in School and Community Health Education from Towson University.  Heather served in the United States Peace Corps in Morocco, North Africa, as a Maternal and Child Health volunteer, working on hygiene promotion and pre-natal care for two years.     Jess Jolly, M.S.W, LCSW-C (she/her), is a licensed clinical social worker who has been serving the community in Southern Maryland for over a decade. Jess' roles have included serving as Clinical Manager and Director of Outpatient Services at Pyramid Healthcare LLC. Throughout her career, Jess has worked with both youth and adults from diverse backgrounds. She has also provided individual and group therapy modalities within residential and outpatient settings. She holds a BA in Sociology from Kutztown University and an MSW from West Chester University. Jess is passionate about serving the college community and providing services of excellence to students. Jess holds supervisory status with the Maryland Board of Social Work Examiners and with the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists as a Non-LCPC Approved Supervisor and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Approved Supervisor.     Joseph McKenzie has been the Prevention Assistant for the SAFE Office since June 2021, utilizing his expertise in event planning, web design, video editing, film, photography, sound design, and media production. A proud Frostburg native and Frostburg Bobcat, he graduated from FSU in 2019 with a degree in mass communication and a minor in graphic design and fine art. Joseph founded the PAWSCAST, the FSU SAFE Office Wellness Podcast, and plays a key role in training Peer Educators through NASPA. By combining creativity with leadership, he supports and enhances prevention initiatives at FSU. His work focuses on addressing alcohol, cannabis, other drug use, and problem gambling, while fostering meaningful community engagement and strengthening campus support.     Sonya Clyburn, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. She has been practicing clinical psychology for over 15 years and has a private practice. Dr. Clyburn is a certified trainer, professor, consultant, evaluator, life coach, and victim advocate. She is currently the Director of Counseling Services at Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD and serves on the Human Right's Committee's for several Department of Disability Services agencies in Washington, DC. Dr. Clyburn is also an assistant, adjunct professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, in Washington, DC, coordinates Crisis Intervention Management Team in the DC Metropolitan Area, and supervises pre doctoral students and psychiatric residents. Recently, she was appointed to the Maryland Health Advisory Committee for the Maryland Higher Education Commission.  Dr. Clyburn earned her Doctor of Psychology degree from the American School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Washington, DC.     *CONTACT HOUR ELIGIBILITY In order to be eligible for the contact hours/certificate of attendance, you must join the live webinar in the Zoom platform. If you are having issues accessing the room/application at the time of the event: Please email [email protected] at the start of the webinar so that we can assist you.   ACCOMMODATIONS If you are in need of any special accommodations, please notify the Central East PTTC Webinar Team three weeks in advance of the event, or as soon as possible, by emailing [email protected].

Course Title: Ethics Recertification for Prevention Professionals Course Description: This ethics recertification course is designed for seasoned prevention professionals seeking to reinforce their ethical decision-making skills and maintain their certification. The course offers an in-depth exploration of the Prevention Think Tank framework, focusing on the latest best practices, ethical standards, and key competencies necessary for effective prevention work. Participants will engage in foundational reviews of core ethical principles, such as confidentiality, boundaries, and professional integrity, while participating in discussions with ethical scenarios in real-world prevention settings. Participants completing the training will receive a certificate for three hours of ethics training. Capacity: 30 participants CEUs approved by the Iowa Board of Certification Any questions can be submitted to Jodee Goche - [email protected]

Part 2: Equipping Adolescents: An introduction to Guiding Good Choices, a tested and proven parenting program. Webinar Series Description The Prevention and Parenting Across the Lifespan webinar series will highlight programs, research, and resources available to support caregivers in promoting healthy youth development. This series will look at opportunities to prevent substance misuse during adolescence and college-age years. The series is designed to support and enhance the work of substance misuse professionals and coalitions. Webinar Description In this presentation, we will describe the Guiding Good Choices five-part workshop series for parents of children aged 9-14. We will cover the program’s evidence base, the outcomes, target audience, and describe what is recommended in terms of a successful implementation. We will also cover licensing and available implementation supports for the program. Webinar Objectives In this webinar, participants will: Be able to describe the GGC program and identify the program’s target population and outcomes. Understand what is required for successful, high-fidelity implementation of GGC.   Date & Time Thursday, February 27, 2025 10:00 am – 11:00 am Alaska 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Pacific 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Mountain (View in your time zone) Audience Prevention practitioners, allied health partners and community members working to prevent substance misuse in tribes, communities, and states in HHS Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington).   Presenters Meghann Wolvert Meghann Wolvert, is a certified Prevention Specialist with a Master's in Environmental Education. She has over 10 years of experience in prevention work, with a strong commitment to fostering health and wellness in her community. She served as the Mackinac County Communities That Care (CTC) Coordinator and is a certified Guiding Good Choices (GGC) trainer, empowering families with effective prevention strategies. Ms. Wolvert’s journey into prevention began during her time with AmeriCorps, where she began to develop a deep connection to theories and practices which led to building healthy, supportive environments for youth. Inspired by the potential of SDS to strengthen both her community and her own family, Ms. Wolvert has dedicated herself to supporting others in implementing this framework in their communities. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, Ms. Wolvert now resides in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula with her family, where she continues to support CTC efforts, promoting positive youth development and long-term well-being across the region.     Registration Register for Part 2: Equipping Adolescents: An introduction to Guiding Good Choices, a tested and proven parenting program.   Register for Part 1: Equipping Caregivers: Adult-supervised drinking during adolescence increases the risk for alcohol misuse. Register for Part 3: Equipping College Students: An introduction to First Years Away from Home, a resource to support transitions to college.   COST: FREE!   Continuing Education Participants will receive a certificate of attendance of 1 hour for completion of this live webinar event.   Questions Please contact Holly Simak ([email protected]) for any questions related to registration.  For any other questions, please contact Kathy Gardner ([email protected]).

Over the past decade, communities have seen a decline in response rates to youth surveys.  This decline has been driven by multiple factors, including changes to laws governing parental consent and reduced support from parents and schools for data collection, in general.  Lower response rates create challenges for substance misuse prevention professionals and can impact assessment and planning efforts. In this webinar, we will explore the uses of survey data and the importance of robust data to our substance misuse prevention work. A survey administration expert will provide insight into the importance of survey data and the impact of low response rates.  Community-based prevention professionals will share their successful approaches to increasing survey participation and building community buy-in. AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info   LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Identify the purpose of student surveys and existing barriers Discuss the importance of communication and partnerships Explain barriers and potential solutions to low participation rates   IC&RC PREVENTION DOMAIN(S): 1   CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training.   PRESENTER:  Kristen Quinlan, PhD Kristen Quinlan, an expert in health psychology and a highly experienced evaluator, specializes in leading applied research focused on preventing suicide, substance misuse, and injury and violence. As the scientific advisor for the Suicide Prevention Resource Center, Quinlan builds the capacity of state and local suicide prevention system leaders to collect, analyze, and use suicide-related data.   The Great Lakes PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders. Others outside this region are welcome to attend.

Date: February 25, 2025 Format: Webinar Time: 2:00 PM—3:00 PM EST Cost: FREE ABOUT THE LEARNING SESSION Middle and high-school years pose a risk for youth as they make decisions around substance use. Research has shown that most adults that have a substance use disorder began using substances during their teen and young adult years making it important to intervene early and where possible prevent substance use. In 2023, according to the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), 32 percent of high school youth reported using marijuana at least once in their lifetime, while 19 percent indicated using marijuana within 30 days of the survey.  Furthermore, 27 percent of youth report consuming their first alcoholic drink before the age of 13. Additionally, 36 percent of those that consumed alcohol in the past 30 days reported engaging in risky alcohol use, defined as consuming at least five alcoholic drinks on one occasion.  This data shows that youth are using/misusing alcohol and drugs.  The Student Intervention Reintegration Program (SIRP) is for indicated populations who have demonstrated use with alcohol and/or drugs helps in the reduction of use/misuse and changes attitudes, behaviors and perception of risk and harm around substances. In this training you will learn about the benefits of the Student Intervention Reintegration Program. Participants will learn how to implement the SIRP program at the community level using the Strategic Prevention Framework Model. Participants will engage in activities to better understand how to implement SIRP.  You'll leave this training with a better understanding of this innovative program, how to implement it in your community and make the program sustainable. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Review the Student Intervention Reintegration Program. Learn how to implement the Student Intervention Reintegration Program using the Strategic Prevention Framework Model. Engage in activities to better understand how to implement the program. Review the various options for program sustainability.   PRESENTER Kim Parent is a Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator at AdCare Educational Institute of Maine.  She is a graduate of Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where she earned her Bachelors of Arts Degree with an advanced major in Political Science.  Kim also graduated from the University of Maine at Fort Kent with a Bachelors of University Studies Degree in Elementary Education.  Kim holds a teacher’s certification from the State of Maine and is an Advanced Certified Prevention Specialist (PS-A).  Kim Parent is the former Project Lead for the Power of Prevention Program at Cary Medical Center and has worked in prevention for the past sixteen years.  Kim has been a certified Prime for Life Instructor for the past nine years, a train the trainer for the Prime for Life Universal Program and certified TIPS and Responsible Beverage Server/Seller Trainer, Ethics in Prevention Trainer, Advanced Ethics in Prevention Trainer and SAPTS Trainer.  Kim presented at the New England School of Addiction and Prevention Studies in June of 2024 and the National Prevention Network Conference in August of 2024.  Kim was awarded the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from the University of Maine at Fort Kent, the Drug Enforcement Administration 2021 Community Drug Prevention Award for the Power of Prevention Coalition, the Melanie Dansko Community Service Award, Gold Level Presidential Service Award and Lifetime Presidential Service Award.  Kim resides in Augusta, Maine.   About the webinar: This webinar is hosted by the New England Prevention Technology Transfer Center (PTTC), a program funded through cooperative agreement by SAMHSA. Participants in this webinar will receive a certificate of completion for 1.5 contact hours. No partial credit will be awarded. This training has been pre-approved by the Maine Prevention Certification Board, an IC&RC member board. For questions about this webinar, please contact Kristen Erickson, [email protected].  

Description: Aging is a process that involves many positive qualities like perspective and experience. It also involves what some have called “an accumulation of losses,” which may include the death of a spouse or other close relationship, retirement and the associated loss of purpose and respect, loss of physical strength and possibly mobility, loss of independence, and so much more. These losses are often called “Life Transitions” and are a critically important risk factor for substance use and misuse among older adults. This presentation will explore this and other risk factors that may lead to problematic substance use among this population. It will also explore some of the protective factors involved to mitigate potential problems, in addition to potential prevention strategies to address problems. Learning Objectives: Identify common substances used by older adults Understand the risk and protective factors associated with the older adult population Identify potential strategies to mitigate risk factors and promote protective factors   Presenters and bios: Charlotte Carlton serves as a training and technical assistance associate at Education Development Center (EDC) and is a behavioral health expert specializing in substance misuse and suicide prevention. She brings over 30 years’ experience leading and implementing prevention programs at the community, state, regional, and national levels. Prior to her work at EDC, Charlotte served as the director of the Southeast Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT) and as a senior program director for Pacific Institute of Research and Evaluation (PIRE). She is now the Director of Training and Technical Assistance for EDC’s work with the Region 8 PTTC serving Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.

In the world of substance misuse prevention, we often hear about what does work—research-backed strategies that make a real impact. But what about the methods that don't work? Surprisingly, many communities continue to use outdated, ineffective, or even harmful prevention practices despite decades of research showing they fail to deliver. This webinar will explore the common yet misguided approaches still in use, shedding light on why they don’t work and the unintended consequences they can create. We’ll also dive into practical strategies for prevention professionals to overcome the resistance they often face when challenging long-held beliefs and entrenched practices. Join us to rethink the status quo, equip yourself with the knowledge to advocate for change, and help build more effective prevention efforts in your community.   AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Identify at least 5 interventions that have been shown through research to NOT be effective in preventing substance misuse List evidence-based approaches that are alternatives to the ineffective/counterproductive strategies Describe strategies to address resistance to discontinuing ineffective and/or counterproductive prevention strategies   IC&RC PREVENTION DOMAIN(S): 1 CERTIFICATES: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training.   The Great Lakes PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders. Others outside this region are welcome to attend.

Prevention Ethics Training is a course of study in ethics in substance abuse prevention.  This training is primarily for entry-level and experienced prevention practitioners working in communities, but it is also appropriate for professionals working in related fields. This virtual six-hour foundational training offers substance use prevention professionals an opportunity to explore the role of ethics in their work. The interactive training** focuses on the Prevention Think Tank’s Prevention Code of Ethics’ six principles. It provides education on ethical responsibilities and practices, including using a formalized ethical decision-making process. **Training interaction requires cameras/audio to be on and accessible during breakout groups. Course objectives: Develop an understanding of ethics in the workplace Identify the six principles of the Prevention Code of Ethics * Apply the four-step Ethical Decision Making Process Priority for attendance is given to those working in Region 7 - Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas.  The class capacity is limited to 30 attendees. Participants completing the Prevention Ethics training will receive a certificate for six hours of training. Any questions can be submitted to Jodee Goche - [email protected]

Cost: FREE Contact Hours:  Up to 5 for attending Parts 1-4 (Certificate of Attendance) Target Audience: Professionals or organizations; Community members (members of a community or consumers); Students or educators (including faculty, administrators, supervisors, etc.) Developed for: SAMHSA Region 3 Join us for our Using Environmental Scan Data for Strategic Planning Learning Collaborative comprised of 2 webinars, each with an accompanying learning lab. The learning labs will offer an immersive, hands-on environment where participants can actively practice and refine skills in real-world scenarios. WEBINAR 1: February 18: What are Environmental Scans? LAB 1: February 20: Identifying the Concepts and Resources Necessary for Environmental Scans WEBINAR 2: February 25: How to Conduct and Use Environmental Scans LAB 2: February 27: Identify the Skills and Opportunities for Utilizing Environmental Scans   WEBINAR 1: What are Environmental Scans? The first webinar in this learning collaborative will provide of an overview of environmental scans and their importance. The term “environmental scan” has multiple, competing definitions, depending on its source and context. This can present a challenge to prevention professionals seeking information and resources about them. This webinar will provide a shared definition of environmental scans that is relevant to substance use prevention and discuss how it relates to other types of assessments. The webinar will also discuss how and why environmental scans are an important tool for prevention professionals. Among other topics, the webinar will identify the common types of environmental scans and their uses and how asset maps can support environmental scans. WEBINAR 1 LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Explain the basics of environmental scans and their similarities and differences to other types of assessments. Describe the importance of environmental scans to prevention. Identify common types of environmental scans and their core elements. Recognize how asset maps can support environmental scans. LAB 1: Identifying the Concepts and Resources Necessary for Environmental Scans This first learning lab in our environmental scan learning collaborative focuses on two of the most common types of environmental scans: Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental (PESTLE) and Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analyses. Both of these analyses are defined and described in the first webinar of this collaborative. Here, through guided exercises, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the core elements of these analyses and what information they can provide prevention professionals. LAB 1 LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this lab, participants will be able to: Identify the core elements of a PESTLE analysis. Identify the core elements of a SWOT analysis. WEBINAR 2: How to Conduct and Use Environmental Scans The second webinar in this learning collaborative will provide an overview of the practical steps to conducting an environmental scan and using its findings to support prevention efforts. The webinar will identify and discuss the steps to complete an environmental scan, as well as review the common challenges and opportunities that can arise. It will also review important resources that can support environmental scans, such as Geographic Information Systems. Lastly, the webinar will crosswalk potential environmental scan findings with each step of the Strategic Prevention Framework and discuss how the findings can improve planning efforts. WEBINAR 2 LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this webinar, participants will be able to: Describe the steps of an environmental scan. Identify the resources needed to complete an environmental scan. Recognize common challenges to completing environmental scans and opportunities for overcoming them. Recognize opportunities for using environmental scan results throughout the strategic planning process. LAB 2: Identify the Skills and Opportunities for Utilizing Environmental Scans This second learning lab in our environmental scan learning collaborative focuses on preparing for an environmental scan and using findings to support strategic planning. Here, through guided exercises that build off the content provided in the webinars, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the practical skills required to fully utilize environmental scans. LAB 2 LEARNING OBJECTIVES By the end of this lab, participants will be able to: Identify the skills necessary to conduct an environmental scan. Identify opportunities for using environmental scan data.   PRESENTERS Josh Esrick, MPP is the Chief of Training and Technical Assistance at Carnevale Associates, LLC. Mr. Esrick has over ten years of experience researching, writing, evaluating, and presenting on substance use prevention and other behavioral health topics. He is an expert in providing training and technical assistance (T/TA) in substance use, having overseen the development of hundreds of T/TA products for numerous clients, including six of SAMHSA’s ten regional Prevention Technology Transfer Centers (PTTCs), the PTTC Network Coordinating Office, the Central East Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) and Mental Health Technology Transfer Centers (MHTTC), and SAMHSA’s Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT). These trainings and products have covered a wide range of topics, including strategic planning, data collection and analysis, and identifying evidence-based prevention interventions for youth. In addition to T/TA, Mr. Esrick has directly provided many of these services to behavioral health agencies and other entities. He has published several academic journal articles. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the State University of New York at Buffalo and a Master of Public Policy from George Washington University.   Emily Patton, MSc, PgDip holds a Masters of Science in Abnormal and Clinical Psychology from Swansea University and a Postgraduate Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from the University of Edinburgh. She offers significant professional experience in the fields of public policy development and analysis, criminal justice research, data collection and analysis, program development, and performance management.   Olivia Stuart, MSW  supports the training & technical assistance (T/TA) team in the development and delivery of knowledge translation products across multiple projects. In this capacity, she assists with webinars, literature reviews, and infographics on a range of behavioral health topics. Prior to joining Carnevale Associates, Olivia interned with the Urban Institute’s Justice Policy Center where she supported projects to reduce inequities in the criminal justice system. Olivia also served as a Graduate Research Supervisor at George Mason University and worked for several years in advocacy and fundraising. She holds a Master of Social Work degree from George Mason University.     *CONTACT HOUR ELIGIBILITY In order to be eligible for the contact hours/certificate of attendance, you must join the live webinar in the Zoom platform. If you are having issues accessing the room/application at the time of the event: Please email [email protected] at the start of the webinar so that we can assist you. ACCOMMODATIONS If you are in need of any special accommodations, please notify the Central East PTTC Webinar Team three weeks in advance of the event, or as soon as possible, by emailing [email protected].

Description: Trauma-informed care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and takes steps to prevent further harm and empower wellness. This interactive learning discussion will inform on SAMHSA’s 6 guiding principles for Trauma-Informed Care. It’s more than understanding what trauma concepts are, but about how providers can enlist the principles to create environments and connection by preventing re-traumatization and intentionally promote healing. The content will review how trauma-informed principles can be integrated in prevention efforts and engagement opportunities to support an individual’s wellness and recovery process. *Please note* Once registered, tickets are not needed for this event. The Zoom link will be included in the confirmation email.   Credits: This training meets the requirements for two renewal hours (CASAC, CPP, CPS) and two initial hours (CPP, CPS) through New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS). As an IC & RC member board, OASAS accredited courses are granted reciprocal approval by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee. Many other states offer reciprocity - please check with your accrediting agency.   Trainer: Diana Padilla, MCPC, CTSS, CARC, has worked in the behavioral health field for more than 26 years. Using a person-centered, recovery-oriented perspective, Ms. Padilla instructs on how to enhance and tailor strategies and interventions to effectively address the substance use and behavioral problems of communities in need. Ms. Padilla is also an SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment) Technical Assistance and Implementation Specialist, helping agencies to build their capacity to effectively intervene with communities at risk of substance use and mental health related conditions and behaviors

Registration is now closed for this course with all slots filled. This virtual Prevention Core Competencies course covers a wide variety of topics including substance misuse prevention science, community organization, needs and resource assessment, evidence-based interventions, and more. The Prevention Core Competencies and accompanying knowledge, skills, and abilities offer professional direction to the prevention field, affecting staff development and career ladders and pipelines, and providing guidance for training programs and service delivery qualification. AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info   IMPORTANT NOTES: How to Apply: Complete and submit the online application for this course by clicking the “REGISTER” button. Course Capacity: 40 participants (must work in Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) Review Process: Applications are reviewed on a first come, first-serve basis for applicants who meet the required criteria. Deadline: January 10, 2025 DATES: February 11, 14, 18, and 21, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM CT/ 10:00 AM-3:00 PM ET LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Describe the key elements of prevention planning and evaluation Understand the core prevention professional knowledge, skills and competencies Understand the theories and processes that support prevention interventions and policies. Describe evidence-based prevention strategies delivered across settings including the family, school, media, community, or workplace. AUDIENCE: The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) in this training are meant for early and mid-career prevention professionals or for seasoned professionals that need a refresher on the fundamentals of prevention science. Participants must meet the following criteria to be considered for this course: Have at least 6 months of experience in the substance misuse prevention field Work in the Great Lakes region (IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) Able to attend the entire training (9:00 AM-2:00 PM on February 11, 14, 18, and 21, 2025) Have the necessary technology and work environment available to join the Zoom training sessions. Able to actively engage during training sessions using both camera and microphone — participants must be on camera at least 90% of the time. Please note that due to the high demand, we will only accept applications from those who are substance misuse prevention practitioners located in HHS Region 5 (Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin). CERTIFICATES: Participants that fully attend all sessions and satisfy all course requirements will receive a certificate of attendance for 16 contact hours. No partial credit will be given for this course. Participants will need to confirm with their certification board to determine if these contact hours are accepted towards their specific certification requirements. IC&RC PREVENTION DOMAIN: 1 QUESTIONS?  Contact Kris Reed (Gabrielsen), Great Lakes PTTC Co-Director, [email protected].   PRESENTERS:  Nicole Augustine, MPH, MCHES, CPS Nicole M. Augustine, Founder & CEO of RIZE Consultants Inc., embodies the spirit of innovation and advocacy in public health. With a vibrant career launched from Cornell University and propelled at George Washington University School of Public Health, Nicole has evolved from a campus harm reduction counselor to a beacon of prevention and public health. In 2022, she authored the "Prevention Specialist Exam Study Guide," a key resource for substance use disorder prevention professionals. Rikki Barton, MA, MAPS  Rikki Barton has a passion for moving individuals and communities onward in their goals. She is the Founder/Lead Consultant of Onward Consulting and holds the Missouri Advanced Prevention Specialist certification as well as international IC&RC certification. Rikki has over 15 years of prevention field experience and currently serves as a consultant to assist organizations, coalitions, and state/federal agencies in the areas of substance use prevention, suicide prevention, and mental health promotion. She has extensive experience working with community coalitions, providing training, grant writing, managing funding sources, and leading a team of preventionists. Rikki trains for CADCA in their youth and adult training programs, for the National Coalition Institute, as well as for National Council for Mental Wellbeing as an Adult, Youth, and Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor.   Please note that due to the high demand, we will only accept applications from those who are substance misuse prevention practitioners located in HHS Region 5 (Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin).

Description: Engaging youth authentically and equitably is key for sound public health practice in general and for the prevention field in particular. Promoting youth engagement has a positive impact on youths’ social participation and sense of connection and teaches them that supporting health and wellness for all is a shared responsibility across organizations, systems, and individuals across the lifespan. Join us for this 1.5-hour peer sharing call to explore current trends related to youth involvement in prevention efforts. During this discussion-driven session, we will delve into the recent shifts prevention practitioners have witnessed around youth participation and engagement over the past several years, new and emerging challenges to engaging youth, as well as promising strategies for providing tailored and culturally responsive engagement opportunities and removing barriers to engagement. Presenters and bios: Tracy Desovich, MPH, CPS - Tracy is a training and technical assistance specialist with over 30 years of experience in substance misuse 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 Clara McCurdy-Kirlis, MS – Clara is a multilingual communications and project management professional, has over 15 years of experience in project development, implementation, and management. She plays lead roles in health and education instructional design for adult learners, e-learning design and delivery, higher education curriculum development, and interdisciplinary project coordination.

Part 1: Equipping Caregivers: Adult-supervised drinking during adolescence increases the risk for alcohol misuse. Webinar Series Description The Prevention and Parenting Across the Lifespan webinar series will highlight programs, research, and resources available to support caregivers in promoting healthy youth development. This series will look at opportunities to prevent substance misuse during adolescence and college-age years. The series is designed to support and enhance the work of substance misuse professionals and coalitions. Webinar Description Parents teach their children many skills. Some parents may try to teach their teens how to drink alcohol responsibly in the home so that their teens will know how to better manage alcohol when they move out on their own. Even though this is a very logical thing to do, it can make teen and young adult drinking problems worse. Dr. Bailey will share recent research by her team showing that teens who drank at home with parent or adult supervision have more alcohol problems not only in their teens, but also into their 30s. Webinar Objectives In this webinar, participants will: Learn basic information about teen alcohol and drug use, including when teens start using different substances, which ones they are most likely to use, and common effects of substance use on teens. Understand why allowing teens to drink in the home is not a good idea.   Date & Time Thursday, January 30, 2025 10:00 am – 11:00 am Alaska 11:00 am – 12:00 pm Pacific 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm Mountain (View in your time zone) Audience Prevention practitioners, allied health partners and community members working to prevent substance misuse in tribes, communities, and states in HHS Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington).   Presenters Jennifer A. Bailey, PhD Dr. Bailey is Assistant Director and Director of Research in the Social Development Research Group at the University of Washington. She is trained in developmental psychology, which is the study of how people grow and change during their lifetime. She has over 20 years of experience researching risk and protective factors for drug and alcohol use in adolescence and adulthood. She also studies the effects of drug and alcohol policy on substance use.     Registration Register for Part 1: Equipping Caregivers: Adult-supervised drinking during adolescence increases the risk for alcohol misuse.   Register for Part 2: Equipping Adolescents: An introduction to Guiding Good Choices, a tested and proven parenting program. Register for Part 3: Equipping College Students: An introduction to First Years Away from Home, a resource to support transitions to college.   COST: FREE!   Continuing Education Participants will receive a certificate of attendance of 1 hour for completion of this live webinar event.   Questions Please contact Holly Simak ([email protected]) for any questions related to registration.  For any other questions, please contact Kathy Gardner ([email protected]).

COURSE DESCRIPTION This workshop offers prevention professionals a comprehensive overview of synthetic drugs, also known as “new psychoactive substances” (NPS), and their unique risks and challenges.  PRESENTER Dr. Fernando Montero’s research draws together the methods of medical and economic anthropology to examine the racialized, gendered interface between the opioid overdose epidemic, mass incarceration, ongoing transformations in narcotics supply chains, and public assistance programs for psychiatric disability in the United States. His mixed-methods research studies the changes in the risk environment for HIV, HCV, mental health conditions, and fatal overdose among street-based drug users brought about by the emergence of synthetic sedatives (e.g. fentanyl and xylazine) and stimulants (e.g. methamphetamine) in the 2010s-2020s, and by the concomitant resurgence of punitive drug control targeting petty dealers throughout the US. One of the central questions of his current research is why the opioid overdose epidemic is becoming increasingly black following almost three decades in which it was predominantly white and working class. He is also conducting a long-term ethnographic study of the War on Drugs in the Afro-Indigenous region of Moskitia on the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua and Honduras.

Substance misuse prevention professionals working in HHS Region 5 (IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) are invited to apply to participate in an 8-session learning collaborative. The goal of the learning collaborative is to assist participants in preparing to become certified prevention specialists by providing opportunities to learn foundational knowledge and skills. Learning collaborative participants will attend monthly virtual meetings on the last Tuesday of each month from 10:00–11:30 AM CT (11:00–12:30 PM ET) from January through September 2025. (Please note: There is no March session.) Virtual trainings will also be available for learning collaborative participants to help them acquire foundational knowledge and skills in substance misuse prevention. Participants will select which trainings they will attend based on the personal training plans they develop through the learning collaborative. AUDIENCE EXPERIENCE LEVEL Click for info APPLICATION DEADLINE: December 20, 2024. Click on the “Register” button to access the application. Participant Eligibility: Applicants must meet the following criteria to participate in this learning collaborative: Currently working in the substance misuse prevention field within HHS Region 5 (IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI) Ability to attend all monthly learning collaborative sessions via Zoom with camera on and a working microphone (1.5 hours each) Ability to complete the required homework prior to each learning collaborative meeting (~30-60 minutes per session) Committed to becoming a certified prevention specialist (or similar certification depending on what is offered in the participant’s state) Create and follow through on a personal training plan that will guide the participant’s progress toward becoming a certified prevention specialist Expectations: Participants of the learning collaborative will: Attend the monthly learning collaborative virtual meetings (1.5 hours each) Complete the assigned homework prior to each learning collaborative meetings (~30-60 minutes per session) Create and complete a personal training plan for obtaining their prevention certification Participate in trainings, when the trainings fit into their personal training plan Learning Objectives: Gain foundational knowledge and skills for substance misuse prevention work Create a personal training plan to obtain prevention certification Complete a personal training plan to obtain prevention certification Training Schedule: All virtual sessions will take place from 10:00–11:30 AM CT / 11:00–12:30 PM ET on the following dates: Jan. 28, Feb. 25, Apr. 29, May 27, Jun. 24, Jul. 29, Aug. 26, and Sept. 30, 2025 (Please note: There is no March session.) Certificates: Registrants who fully attend this event or training will receive a certificate of attendance via email within two weeks after the event or training. Presenter:  Kris Reed (Gabrielsen), MPH, CPS  Kris Reed is the co-director of the Great Lakes Prevention Technology Transfer Center. She has worked in the substance misuse prevention field for over 30 years. Kris was the Associate Director of the Western Center for the Application of Prevention Technologies (CAPT), co-authored the first Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist Training curriculum, and co-authored the textbook, Substance Abuse Prevention: The Intersection of Science and Practice. As a consultant, she has worked with states and communities across the nation to bridge the gap between research and practice, assisting prevention professionals in maximizing their effectiveness.   The Great Lakes PTTC is offering this training for individuals working in HHS Region 5: IL, IN, MI, MN, OH, WI. This training is being provided in response to a need identified by Region 5 stakeholders.

Date: January 21, 2025 Format: Webinar Time: 1:30 PM—2:30 PM EST Cost: FREE ABOUT THE LEARNING SESSION Middle and high-school years pose a risk for youth as they make decisions around substance use. Research has shown that most adults that have a substance use disorder began using substances during their teen and young adult years making it important to intervene early and where possible prevent substance use. In 2023, according to the Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey (MIYHS), 32 percent of high school youth reported using marijuana at least once in their lifetime, while 19 percent indicated using marijuana within 30 days of the survey.  Furthermore, 27 percent of youth report consuming their first alcoholic drink before the age of 13. Additionally, 36 percent of those that consumed alcohol in the past 30 days reported engaging in risky alcohol use, defined as consuming at least five alcoholic drinks on one occasion.  This data shows that youth are using/misusing alcohol and drugs.  The Student Intervention Reintegration Program (SIRP) is for indicated populations who have demonstrated use with alcohol and/or drugs helps in the reduction of use/misuse and changes attitudes, behaviors and perception of risk and harm around substances. In this training, you will learn about the benefits of the Student Intervention Reintegration Program, its successes, and how this program can be used in collaboration with screening brief intervention and referral to treatment. Participants will learn about the evidence-based curriculum used in the SIRP program, Prime for Life. You'll leave this training with a better understanding of this innovative program and if it will be a good fit for you and your practice. LEARNING OBJECTIVES Review the Student Intervention Reintegration Program and how to refer patients to it. Understand the foundations of the Prime for Life Curriculum. Learn how the Student Intervention Reintegration Program can be used in collaboration with Screening Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment. THE PRESENTER: Kim Parent, PS-A Kim Parent is a Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator at AdCare Educational Institute of Maine.  She is a graduate of Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where she earned her Bachelors of Arts Degree with an advanced major in Political Science.  Kim also graduated from the University of Maine at Fort Kent with a Bachelors of University Studies Degree in Elementary Education.  Kim holds a teacher’s certification from the State of Maine and is an Advanced Certified Prevention Specialist (PS-A).  Kim Parent is the former Project Lead for the Power of Prevention Program at Cary Medical Center and has worked in prevention for the past sixteen years.  Kim has been a certified Prime for Life Instructor for the past nine years, a train the trainer for the Prime for Life Universal Program and certified TIPS and Responsible Beverage Server/Seller Trainer, Ethics in Prevention Trainer, Advanced Ethics in Prevention Trainer and SAPTS Trainer.  Kim presented at the New England School of Addiction and Prevention Studies in June of 2024 and the National Prevention Network Conference in August of 2024.  Kim was awarded the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from the University of Maine at Fort Kent, the Drug Enforcement Administration 2021 Community Drug Prevention Award for the Power of Prevention Coalition, the Melanie Dansko Community Service Award, Gold Level Presidential Service Award and Lifetime Presidential Service Award.  Kim resides in Augusta, Maine.   About the webinar: This webinar is hosted by the New England Prevention Technology Transfer Center, a program funded through cooperative agreement from SAMHSA. Participants who complete the webinar will receive a certificate of completion for 1 contact hour (no partial credit).

Webinar 3: How to strike the right balance between evidence-based program fidelity and adaptation. Webinar Series Description The Evidence-Based Programs Webinar Series is designed to enhance substance misuse prevention efforts through a structured three-part webinar series. Webinar Description The third and final webinar in this training series will focus on five best practices for evidence-based program (EBP) implementation. The presenters will provide research-based tools and strategies for assuring you maintain the core elements of the program needed to achieve positive outcomes while also adapting the non-core elements to enhance fit with your target audience. Through the presentation, we will reflect on how these best practices help promote health in the implementation of substance misuse prevention programs. Webinar Objectives In this webinar, participants will: Learn key terms, theories, and best practices for evidence-based program implementation. Learn how to apply research-based tools and strategies to assure you maintain the core elements of the program needed to achieve positive outcomes while also adapting the non-core elements to enhance fit with your community.   Date & Time Wednesday, January 15, 2025 11:30 am – 1:00 pm Alaska 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm Pacific 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm Mountain (View in your time zone) Audience Prevention practitioners, allied health partners and community members working to prevent substance misuse in tribes, communities, and states in HHS Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington).   Presenters Brittany Cooper is Associate Professor of Human Development and graduate faculty in the Prevention Science PhD program at Washington State University. She also co-leads the Northwest PTTC and is President of the Society for Prevention Research. Dr. Cooper’s research, teaching, and outreach centers around the translation of prevention science for public health impact. For over a decade, she has collaborated with federal, state, and other community leaders to improve the field’s understanding of how best to support evidence-based prevention programs in diverse community settings.   Kat Bruzios is a postdoctoral scholar across University of Washington’s School Mental Health Assessment, Research, and Training (SMART) and the ALACRITY Centers. She earned her PhD in Prevention Science from Washington State University. She has training and experience in identifying effective prevention strategies. Dr. Bruzios has expertise in the implementation of evidence-based prevention programs and using implementation strategies to achieve positive behavioral health outcomes for youth, families, and communities in various settings.   Registration Register for Webinar 3: How to strike the right balance between evidence-based program fidelity and adaptation.   COST: FREE!   Continuing Education Participants will receive a certificate of attendance of 1.5 hours for completion of this live webinar event.   Questions Please contact Holly Simak ([email protected]) for any questions related to registration.  For any other questions, please contact Kathy Gardner ([email protected]).