GFC Attends Forum in Washington, D.C.

Representatives from Windham County’s community coalitions traveled to Washington, D.C. the first week of February to collaborate with 3,000 substance abuse prevention specialists and advocates throughout the country for the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America’s (CADCA) 30th Annual National Leadership Forum. The Windham County coalitions making the journey were The Collaborative, Deerfield Valley Community Partnership, Greater Falls Connections, and West River Valley Thrives. Representatives from the Turning Point of Windham County and of Springfield, Greater Falls Community Justice Center and the Vermont Department of Health also attended. This is the first time Recovery colleagues joined prevention staff at the forum.

The coalitions heard from several national prevention leaders, including Boston, Massachusetts Mayor Martin Walsh and Dr. Nora Volkow from the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The Vermont contingent, totaling a record breaking 63 people, had meetings with staff from Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Patrick Leahy offices, and met face-to-face with Congressman Welch during the “Capitol Hill Day” event on Wednesday, Feb. 5. Topics discussed with Vermont’s national representatives included the impact of opioids, marijuana, underage alcohol, and tobacco and vape use.

“The best part of the forum for me is always Capitol Hill Day, when we are given the opportunity to meet with members of both the House and the Senate. During these meetings, we are able to convey the importance of funding for prevention, and inform our legislators about specific successes and concerns in our communities.” says Cindy Hayford, Deerfield Valley Community Partnership Director. “This year, the highlight of these meetings was having 35 Vermont youth attend the meetings with the Vermont group and having their informed, articulate voices be heard.”

JR Layne, Certified Recovery Coach and Family Restorative Justice Coordinator, agreed. “The way the youth eloquently advocated for themselves concerning underage tobacco use and vaping, as well as underage drinking and drug consumption, was inspiring. They really renewed my hope in our society, particularly the future of the country in overcoming this epidemic and stopping the cycle among our next generation of citizens.”

The CADCA Forum covered a wide range of topics – from how to prevent prescription drug abuse and the use of marijuana to how to deal with the recent vaping epidemic and develop policies to reduce underage drinking. The local coalitions in Windham County have launched programs to address some of these topics such as  the “I Will Be A Parent” campaign, Sticker Shock, and participating in National prescription drug Take-Back Days.

CADCA’s National Leadership Forum is the nation’s largest training conference for community prevention.

CNN Original Series to be shown on November 20th

A screening of Van Jones’ newest CNN original Series, The Redemption Project, will be shown at the Rockingham Free Public Library on November 20th from 6-8:30 PM. The event will include an appearance by #cut50 National Organizer, Louis L. Reed, who is traveling to over 10 states on a year long Empathy Tour to learn about the needs of those impacted by mass incarceration. The event is free and open to the public.

The CNN series exposes the process of reconciliation and restorative justice and highlights its potential to heal communities and brings forward the best in humanity.  Jones, a #cut50 co-founder, creates space for in-depth discussions between offenders and those directly impacted by their violent crimes as part of the restorative justice process.

#cut50 is a national initiative of the Dream Corps that works to reduce the prison population while aiming to make communities safer. The campaigns are led by people who have been directly impacted by the justice system and want to create change. #cut50 has lead successful days of advocacy and change with the National Day of Empathy to highlight the reforms needed in the criminal justice system.

JR Layne, a Recovery Coach with the Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield, Citizen Advisory Board member of Greater Falls Community Justice Center, and person with lived experience, spoke about the importance of this event within the community. Layne said, “The #cut50 initiative continues a conversation that is crucial in Vermont, as well as the nation. It is a community discussion where everyone has a voice and leads to a radical overhaul of our penal system, including our family and criminal courts.”

Layne added, “Our present system unfortunately contributes to recidivism, Substance Use Disorders and the degradation of our family structure and values. This must be changed. This is our responsibility, as a community.”

After the screening of an episode of The Redemption Project, a multi-member panel will moderate a conversation around criminal justice reform in Vermont. The panel will include members from the Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield, Greater Falls Community Justice Center, the ACLU of Vermont and those with lived experience.

The night will also include information on the recent publication of the “Blueprint for Smart Justice,” which can be found on the ACLU of Vermont website.  The blueprint outlines various policy options around reform efforts within the state. The document includes recommendations around drug decriminalization, alternatives to incarceration, investments for mental health and substance-use conditions, as well as reform around the bail, sentencing, and parole systems.

This event is hosted by Greater Falls Community Justice Center, Greater Falls Connections, and Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield in partnership with the ACLU of Vermont. The Rockingham Free Public Library is located at 65 Westminster St, Bellows Falls, VT. Free parking can be found at the municipal lot located at 2 Church Street, Bellows Falls.

Recovery Month Events

Greater Falls Connections and Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield will be co-hosting a series of events to celebrate National Recovery Month during the month of September. The events support people in recovery and draw attention to critical prevention, treatment, and recovery support services. Recovery Month celebrates the benefits of recovery from both mental and substance use disorders.

The local events that will support the national effort include:

  • Raising Kids & Recovery Kick-Off: Check out our new peer-based, trauma-informed program that supports people raising kids while in recovery. This is a new dynamic two-generation model designed to break the cycle of addiction. Wednesdays from 1-2:30 starting September 12th at Parks Place, 44 School St. Bellows Falls.
  • Families in Recovery (Italian Feast): We invite families affected by substance use disorders to join us for an evening of family fun & games.  Friday, September 13th from 6-8 PM at Parks Place, 44 School St. Bellows Falls.
  • Songs & Stories of Hope: Drop by the Flat Iron Cafe to listen to performers Jenny Burtis, Julie Cermola, Neil Blanchette, and Charles Collins (AKA “Bruno’s Human”.) The performances will be followed by a candlelight vigil.  Friday, September 20th 5:30-7:30 PM at the Flat Iron Cafe 51 Square, Bellow Falls.
  • Free Car Wash- Meet & Greet: Come by O’Reilly Auto Parts to meet local Recovery Coaches who are making a huge difference in our community (Donations are welcome.) Sunday, September 22nd 2-4 PM at the O’Reilly Parking Lot, 102 Westminster St., Bellows Falls.

Recovery Month is a national observance sponsored by SAMHSA, within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The observance raises awareness of mental and substance use disorders, celebrates individuals in long-term recovery, and acknowledges the work of prevention, treatment, and recovery support services.

All of the National Recovery Month events in the area are free and open to the public. Come and hear about how recovery is transforming lives.

“Uprooting Addiction” Documentary and Discussion on September 5th

Come see a sneak peek of “Uprooting Addiction,” a documentary film and discussion which explores the connection between childhood trauma and addiction through personal stories and interviews with experts in the fields of trauma and addiction. This community event will be held at the Rockingham Free Public Library on Thursday September 5th from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. FREE DINNER INCLUDED!

Daryl McGraw, a person in recovery, who stars in the documentary, will discuss adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and the risks and vulnerability for addiction, followed by a Q&A. Information and connections to local resources will be shared as well.

This event is hosted by Southern Vermont Area Health Education Center in partnership with Springfield Turning Point Recovery Center and Greater Falls Connections. Contact Laura@greaterfallsconnections.org or 802-463-9927 ext. 209 for more information

Daryl McGraw has been substance free since 2007, his personal experience overcoming the battles of addiction and incarceration has allowed him to serve as a longtime advocate for persons in recovery experiencing incarceration and reentry. With over 10 years of professional experience in trauma, addiction recovery and community reintegration, Mr. McGraw is viewed as an expert in the field.

2019 A.C.E Award Nominations

Greater Falls Connections is inviting community members to nominate an unsung hero for the annual A.C.E. (Active Community Engagement) Award. This award recognizes a local individual who is active in community engagement in the Greater Falls area.  There are members of the community who work tirelessly to make a difference. They coach teams, organize fundraisers, or volunteer at our local hospitals, schools, churches and more. Consistently, they selflessly devote their time and efforts, going above and beyond without thought of reward or recognition. For example, a hero may exceed the requirements of their job or in their role as a volunteer. They could work with community organizations such as Parks Place, the Rockingham Free Public Library, SEVCA, or Our Place, etc.

You can help Greater Falls Connections to recognize an unsung hero by filling out a nomination form. Stop by Parks Place or the Rockingham Free Public Library to pick up a paper nomination form or go to the Greater Falls Connections Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greaterfallsconnections to fill out the online form. Paper forms can be faxed to Parks Place at 1-802-463-8138. Forms should be submitted by Monday, July 29th.

The 2019 A.C.E. Award winner will be announced during the annual Greater Falls Connections Barbecue on July 31st  at the Rockingham Recreation Center. Previous winners from 2018 include Bonnie Anderson and Hailee Galandak-Cochran. The 2019 winner will be determined by a group of previous winners and the Greater Falls Connections staff members. Recipients of this award are the unsung heroes within our community who foster positive change and are dedicated to creating safe, healthy and fun options for youth, families and the community at large. If you have any questions about the award, please contact the Greater Falls Connections A.C.E. Award Committee at (802) 463-9927 ext. 212 or e-mail at deb@greaterfallsconnections.org.

Stories of Hope

Stories of Hope: “See the Change, Be the Change” is the theme of the community forum on Wednesday, June 5th at 6:30pm at the Rockingham Free Public Library. The event, a follow-up to “The Importance of Hope” forum in February 2018, will highlight stories and progress on our community’s efforts to respond to the opioid epidemic. It is intended to inspire and reduce stigma, while featuring recent successes in bringing more recovery resources to the community. Training on how to administer Narcan, the opioid overdose reversal drug, will also be available.

A story-sharing panel will include members of community recovery groups and families of those experiencing addiction who will share their personal experiences with opioids and how recovery has positively impacted their lives. Recovery Coaching, a peer based and peer led program, will provide insight into the many pathways to recovery.

Between each story, Greater Falls Connections and Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield will share details of programs that have been successfully expanded into the Bellows Falls area. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions, provide input on how we can collectively continue to take action against this disease, and learn how to get involved in prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.

Rockingham Free Public Library is located at 65 Westminster St., Bellows Falls, VT. This event is sponsored by Turning Point Recovery Center of Springfield, Greater Falls Connections, WOOL FM, and Greater Falls Community Justice Center.

Holiday Support

Holidays, Addiction & Support

The holiday season between November thru New Years can be a fantastic, festive time. It can be a time for us to slow down, reconnect with the people we care about and reflect on the year gone by. The holidays can also be overwhelming. Stress caused by work, school, strained relationships, or finances can certainly take a toll. Some may turn towards drugs or alcohol to cope, or, may already be quietly struggling with a substance addiction. More than 22 million Americans over the age of 12 are dealing with substance dependence according to the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health. What follows are some tips we call all use during the holidays to alleviate the collective stress, decrease substance use and support those coping with an addiction.

Knowing the “Triggers”

It’s helpful to know what may “trigger” the use of substances. This is the particular event, circumstance, situation or feeling that can lead to use. Crisis, anxiety, isolation or stress are but a few of the most severe. The stress, or anticipation of stress, during the holidays may be heightened by fear of confrontation, financial challenges or how to hide substance use. Knowing these triggers can help to avoid situations, or, to prepare ahead of time. Additionally, understanding the triggers and reducing the level of stress during the holidays can dramatically improve our mental wellbeing and prevent substance use and abuse.

Signs of Use

As parents, friends and relatives, it can be awfully tricky to know if a loved one or friend is using or abusing alcohol or other drugs. If you are concerned someone you know may be using or abusing, here are a few things to be aware of:  sharp or sudden change in mood; defensiveness; withdrawal; smell of substances such as alcohol or marijuana or strong fragrances to cover up the odor. While use does not necessarily mean one is abusing a substance, sudden shifts in behavior may be cause for concern.  

Be That Solid Friend or Relative

How can we help prevent the use of substances or support someone struggling with addiction during the holidays? There are numerous ways to be there for your family and friends. Above all, use open, honest communication. Listen and be free of judgment. Be comforting and compassionate. Make a few calls and compile a few websites or blogs for him or her. Be sure to lock or secure all your prescription medications. It helps to count your prescriptions, especially if you are having guests over to your home. During the holidays, plan meals and activities with no or limited alcohol. In general, limit availability during the holidays and always provide non-alcoholic options. On that note, come up with physical activities to keep people moving and active. Go for walks, snowshoe or build snow forts. (With recent weather, tossing the football around or going for a bike ride may be more realistic). Play games or watch movies together. (Try a raging game of Charades or popcorn and The Christmas Story). Finally, make sure everyone eats well and gets plenty of sleep.

Laugh, listen, converse and connect. Happy holidays!

Written by Chad Simmons, former Media Coordinator for Greater Falls Connections

Launch Celebration

Launch Celebration
Friday, September 20, 2013. 12:00pm-1:30pm
Greater Falls Prevention Coalition is changing our name and launching a new website! Join us this Friday for the launch of our new name, logo, website and staff! Also, we’ll be rolling out our new media campaign “LYL” geared towards young adults 21+. The campaign encourages social drinkers to learn his or her limit and to keep in mind that a good night does not have to mean getting wasted. Join us Friday for the launch YOU helped us to create! A free, home-cooked meal will be served. All are welcome.
Parks Place
44 School St.
Bellows Falls, VT 05101

Welcome!

Welcome to the new us! With the enthusiastic support and energy of our community, the Greater Falls Prevention Coalition will now be Greater Falls Connections. While the focus on substance prevention will remain the same, Greater Falls Connections will place a special emphasis on strengthening community, creating connections and focusing on the positive attributes of the Greater Falls area.

Check out our new website and all new resources, including totally revised social media sites. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram! Not sure what those are?
No problem! Learn right along with us (we’re pretty new to them as well).

Now, we’ve been working hard to get everything up and running, but being the community-driven organization we are, this is YOUR site! Let us know what ideas, changes, or resources you would like to see related to strengthening community and preventing substance abuse. Have an idea? Send it our way!

Cheers!

Chad

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