In the previous year, California had record high drug related fatalities. From fentanyl to opium, substance abuse is getting out of hand and this issue needs to be tackled with immediacy.   

In a media briefing on January 18th hosted by the Center at Sierra Health Foundation and Ethnic Media Services, a panel of experts shed light on the critical work being done to address substance abuse and advance health equity across various communities in California.

Speakers

  • Kaying Hang, President, The Center at Sierra Health Foundation
  • Mari Perez-Ruiz, Executive Director, Central Valley Empowerment Alliance
  • Arlene Brown, CEO, Crossroads Recovery Center and Skoden Native Harm Reduction Services
  • Braunz E. Courtney, Executive Director, Executive Director of the HIV Education Prevention Project of Alameda County 

Kaying Hang, representing the Center at Sierra Health Foundation, emphasized the organization’s commitment to ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to lead a healthy life of their own design. 

The Center’s focus on access to care, quality of treatment, and youth prevention underscores their dedication to making a meaningful impact in the field of substance abuse. Hang’s remarks set the stage for a deeper exploration of the challenges and triumphs experienced by communities grappling with substance abuse.

Mari Perez-Ruiz, Executive Director of the Central Valley Empowerment Alliance, brought a powerful perspective to the discussion. She highlighted the importance of recognizing the humanity of individuals affected by substance abuse and holding hope for them, even when they may struggle to find it within themselves. 

Perez-Ruiz emphasized the significance of creating spaces for individuals to realize their promise and potential, underlining the transformative impact of unconditional love and a shared commitment to building a better future for all, regardless of demographic differences. Her words resonated with the audience, offering a poignant reminder of the profound impact of empathy and support in the journey towards recovery and empowerment.

Arlene Brown, CEO of Crossroads for Recovery Center and Scotts Valley Native Harm Reduction Services, shared insights into pioneering harm reduction programs aimed at serving Native Americans and other residents of Inyo and Mono counties. 

Brown’s focus on harm reduction underscored the importance of meeting individuals where they are and providing culturally and linguistically appropriate support. Her organization’s innovative approach represents a crucial step towards addressing the unique needs of underserved communities and fostering a sense of pride and empowerment.

Braunz E. Courtney, Executive Director of the HIV Education Prevention Project of Alameda County, emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to become leaders in their own communities. 

Courtney’s organization not only provides support and resources but also actively hires participants who are now leading their peers and becoming new leaders in public health. This approach represents a powerful shift towards sustainable community-driven solutions, where individuals are not only recipients of aid but active contributors to the betterment of their communities.

The collective insights shared by Hang, Perez-Ruiz, Brown, and Courtney underscore a common theme of empowerment, compassion, and community-driven solutions in addressing substance abuse and advancing health equity. Their work reflects a deep understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by communities across California, and their innovative approaches offer a beacon of hope for those affected by substance abuse.

The media briefing provided a compelling glimpse into the transformative impact of the Center at Sierra Health Foundation and its grantees. The speakers’ dedication to creating inclusive, culturally sensitive, and community-driven interventions serves as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in addressing complex societal issues.

As the event drew to a close, it became evident that the work of the Center at Sierra Health Foundation and its grantees is not only commendable but also essential in fostering resilience, hope, and empowerment within communities. 

The collective efforts of these organizations and individuals are a testament to the transformative power of empathy, support, and community-driven initiatives in addressing substance abuse and advancing health equity.

In conclusion, the media briefing served as a powerful reminder of the profound impact of community-driven interventions in addressing substance abuse and advancing health equity.

The insights shared by Kaying Hang, Mari Perez-Ruiz, Arlene Brown, and Braunz E. Courtney underscored the importance of empathy, empowerment, and culturally sensitive approaches in creating meaningful change within communities. Their work stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of individuals and communities in the face of adversity, offering hope for a brighter, healthier future for all.