Presented by Kym Laube, HUGS, Inc

Sometimes, it can seem as if prevention, harm reduction, and recovery are at opposite ends of the Continuum of Care. However, all benefit from reducing harm and developing healthier communities. By operating in silos, those working towards improving prevention, treatment, and recovery from substance use disorder are not able to use each other as meaningful resources, and in turn, short circuit conversations that could be extremely beneficial for all. Breaking down these barriers and working together strategically is long overdue

Presented by Jeff Hanley, Executive Director, Commonwealth Prevention Alliance

In April 2016, Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Act was signed into law. While recreational marijuana for adult use remains illegal, ongoing legislative discussions are bringing the topic back into focus. Join this workshop to gain insights into current legislative debates on marijuana legalization, including the key issues impacting the discussion. Regardless of your stance on legalization, we’ll explore why advocacy for community health is crucial. Discover strategies for advocating effectively for prevention funding and learn how such efforts within legalization legislation can make a difference and why your voice is vital in shaping future policies.

Presented by Phyllis Law, EPIS, Penn State University and Alise Barr, EPIS, Penn State University

Passion for the success of young people often brings diverse ideas and strategies to the planning table. In this session, discover how to channel that passion into data-driven, evidence-based actions that will take your prevention efforts to the next level. We’ll dive into the PA Youth Survey (PAYS) and explore the Continuums of Care, Effort, and Evidence, showing you how these tools can sharpen your focus and enhance community-wide early prevention initiatives. Learn how to use data to inform decision-making and access the wide range of resources available through EPIS at Penn State University to strengthen your programs and make a lasting impact.

Panel presentation with Drs. Linda Bloom and Holly Metzgar, Chelsie Shifflet, RN and Jami Geist, MA, Reading Hospital

Use of substances including alcohol, marijuana, opiates, and stimulants, can be detrimental to mom and baby. The Reading Hospital provides a continuum of care for women diagnosed with substance use disorder. Services, including the Soft-Landing Program, may begin prenatally and support women, their newborn, and their families.

Presented by Diana Santiago, LCSW, CAADC, CCS , Clinical Supervisor of the Older Adult Program at Caron Treatment Centers

Substance use disorder among older adults has been gradually increasing over other years due to changing demographics and an aging population. Recognizing substance use disorder among the older population can be challenging due to other health-related issues. The objectives of this workshop include: discussing the fastest growing population needing specialized substance use disorder treatment; understanding components of integrated approach to older adult treatment; addressing clinical needs for treatment of this population.

Moderated by Dr. Ramona Palmerio-Roberts , PsyD, CCTP-II

Dr. Roberts is currently the Senior Executive Director of the Caron Outpatient Treatment Centers Regional Outpatient Services and the former Supervisor of Trauma Services for Caron’s main residential campus. She is a level II-Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Dr. Roberts is an author and trainer and has treated and educated patients with co-occurring addiction and trauma histories both individually and in group settings.

Panelists – Panel is comprised of diverse people in recovery: Gary M, Dominic V, Carmen A,  Sherry R.