Overdose Prevention and Risk Reduction

The Injury-Free NC Academy on Overdose Prevention and Risk Reduction provides training to community-based organizations, local health departments, coalitions, and individuals who are interested in establishing an overdose prevention program or want to learn more about using a framework and principles that remove barriers to care and meet people where they are-while reducing health risks.

Participants collaborate with peers across North Carolina to learn how to operationalize risk reduction practices in their communities. This interactive, hybrid structure fosters regional collaboration with risk reduction experts, providing insight on best practices and lessons learned from the field.

Who Should Apply?

• People with lived or living experience who are interested in or are currently involved with a syringe service program (SSP) or other organizations providing overdose prevention services
• Staff from organizations who serve people who use drugs (PWUD) (PSSs, PORT)
• County Opioid Settlement Coordinators
• Healthcare providers, including primary care, mental health, substance use disorder treatment, and pharmacists
•  Community organizers/mobilizers
• Social service providers, including housing and employment support, reentry services, child and family welfare services, HIV/AIDS services, and recovery support
• First responders with experience or interest in working with PWUD, including emergency medical services and fire departments
• Faith communities with experience or interest in working with PWUD