Past Programming

Teen Programming

The 1-hour, media-based presentation, “This is (Not) About Drugs (TINAD), was targeted toward youth in grades 6-12. The program helped youth raise awareness of the risks of misusing prescription opioids, and encouraged youth to seek alternatives to substances when dealing with stress. The presentation was a success in 58 communities, reaching youth in schools, 4-H clubs, youth groups, youth conferences and after-school programs.

Testimonials

“This was by far one of the best drug-type presentations that I have been a part of. I really like that it was more about the choices you make and not about “don’t do this, or don’t do that.” The students were engaged and I could tell they were really thinking and digesting the material. It was also timely for my seniors who are going off to a new adventure this fall, it really put a seed in their minds to think about their actions and how this can change not only their lives, but the lives of others. I highly recommend this program!!”

Andrew Jensen | Ag Education Teacher | Chester, South Dakota

Adult Programming

The one-hour presentation, The Opioid Public Health Crisis (OPHC), addressed opioid misuse, risk factors and suggested prevention methods. Participants learned how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and how the opioid reversal drug Naloxone works, and some of the solutions that states and communities are applying to reduce the effects of the health crisis.

We trained parents, employees, employers, teachers and service providers in 16 communities.

CRAFT Community Support Groups

CRAFT Community Support Groups are a virtual and face-to-face training for the friends and family members concerned about their loved ones who live with a substance use disorder. This program is based on the Community Reinforcement and Family Training (CRAFT) model. The CRAFT model is a highly effective, evidence-based, motivational program that impacts communities and families in multiple areas of their lives.

1. Reduce your loved one’s harmful substance use.
2. Help move your loved one toward treatment.
3. Improve the lives of the concerned family and friends.

Topics include:

• Relationship dynamics: identifying triggers and motivators.
• Developing positive communication techniques.
• Helping the loved one enter treatment services and engage in recovery.

Testimonials

“Just wanted to let you know that the classes I took worked. During [my daughter’s] treatment we had 2 over-the-telephone counseling sessions with her counselor and [she] brought up how it was so much easier to talk to me. She said, “my mom is a different person and I really love my new mom!” She said, “If my mom was willing to take classes so she could communicate better with me, then I had to meet her half way.” So, I want to thank you so much for the classes, they were successful for me and my daughter.” – CRAFT Participant

Addiction Conference

The Intersection of Diversity and Addiction is a week-long event that aims to arm human service professionals who work with the addiction and mental health population with meaningful tools and knowledge for empowering their clients.

The virtual conference drew a nation wide audience. 41 professionals provided hour-long sessions to a total of 910 attendees from 29 states.

Sessions covered a broad range of topics including:

• Addictions and Rural Communities
• Family Dynamics and Addictions
• Behavioral Addictions
• Treatment Considerations
• Youth Perspectives
• Ethical Considerations
  and more

95% of participants would recommend the event to a colleague, and 98% expected the information to benefit them in their professional positions.

Watch the Conference Highlights

Healthy Decision-Making Art Contest

The Healthy Decision-Making Art Contest gave youth the opportunity to share their art across the region. For the 2024 Art Contest, youth were asked to create art that represented what building stronger communities meant to them.

In response, we received a myriad of creative submissions including illustration, drawing and painting. Submissions were judged based on criteria craftsmanship, originality and interpretation of the topic. The winning entries will be printed as posters and bookmarks to be displayed across the state.

2024 North Dakota Winners

1st: Matayia Thompson

Barnes County North Public School, Wimbledon, ND

2nd: Cambri Schatz

Jim Hill Middle School, Minot, ND

3rd: Ava Barnard

Jim Hill Middle School, Minot, ND

2023 North Dakota Winners

1st: Gleven Pascual

Erik Ramstad Middle School
Minot, ND

2nd: Blake Hasse

Sargent Central Public School
Forman, ND

3rd: Abree Diaz Gonzalez

Hebron Public School
Hebron, ND

2024 South Dakota Winners

1st: Hayden Bowers

St. Mary Catholic School, Dell Rapids, SD

2nd: Jamaica Mich Madrona

Lower Brule School, Lower Brule, SD

3rd: Taryn Kraft

Britton-Hecla School District, Britton, SD

2023 South Dakota Winners

1st: Sarah Nelson

Iroquois High School
Iroquois, SD

2nd: Rhylan Tschappat

Frederick Area School District
Frederick, SD

3rd: Grace Richter

T.F. Riggs Public High School
Pierre, SD