👋🏼 Get to Know Our Harm Reduction Program Coordinator!

How long have you been working at WCPH?

Two years.

Describe your role in 3 sentences.

I provide a safe, judgement-free space for marginalized and underserved people to come, be treated with dignity and respect, and receive the resources and help they need. I have the amazing opportunity to educate the community on evidence-based and life-saving tools and approaches to combat overdose. I further establish and build trusting partnerships with outside organizations to help people be successful.

What is one WCPH accomplishment that you feel particularly proud of?

Winning the Spirit of Public Health Award from the Wisconsin Public Health Association.

What do you love about working at WCPH?

I love that I play a big part in saving lives, all the clients I work with, and the amazing community partnerships and relationships that are built.

What's an interesting fact about you?

I love to learn and grow as a person. Someday, I would like to start my own business.

What project at WCPH are you most excited about right now and why?

Narcan saturation. I believe everyone should have the knowledge of how to save someone's life in the event in an overdose.

What do you want the community to know about you and your role at WCPH?

Harm reduction is about meeting people where they are at but not leaving them there. I meet people where they are at in their journey, set small, attainable goals, and help people find their way to recovery, in whatever form that looks like for them. I wouldn't be alive today if it weren't for the programs and people that do the work I do.

✔️ Be Aware, Be Prepared

September is National Preparedness Month. It's important to have a plan in place for disasters such as severe weather, floods, power outages, and medical emergencies. By creating an emergency kit, setting aside savings for a rainy day, and staying up-to-date on health screenings, we can be better equipped to handle whatever life throws our way. So take this opportunity to reflect on readiness and make adjustments to ensure you are truly prepared.

🧎Falls Risk Assessment

September is Falls Prevention Awareness Month, but falls happen all year.

• Among adults age 65 and older, Wisconsin has one of the highest death rate due to falls in the nation.
• One in four people in this age group will have a fall each year.
• Across the country, an older adult is treated in an emergency department for a fall every 11 seconds.

While falls are common, they’re NOT a normal part of aging. Winnebago County Public Health offers FREE in-home falls risk assessments for individuals who are at risk of falling so you can prevent falls from happening.

💜 Substance Use Prevention Coalition

Breakwater is a community coalition, with support from Winnebago County Public Health, focused on reducing youth and adult substance use in Winnebago County. Breakwater action teams are currently addressing treatment and recovery, prevention and awareness, data collection, and communication.

Breakwater aims to establish connections, build partnerships, and serve as a protective barrier between our community and the negative impacts of substance use and addiction. Breakwater also works to engage the treatment and recovery community to learn from others.

Interested in getting involved or getting help? Visit the Breakwater website to learn more, follow their podcast, or get connected.