In a recent meeting, the Johnson County Board of County Commissioners highlighted their ongoing efforts to combat the opioid crisis, declaring October 24th as National Substance Abuse Prevention Month. The board emphasized the importance of raising awareness about substance abuse prevention and recognizing the challenges faced by individuals struggling with addiction.

The commissioners acknowledged the need for comprehensive strategies that encompass all stages of substance abuse, including prevention, early identification, and recovery. They underscored the significance of community initiatives, such as the award-winning \"You Never Know JOCO\" campaign, which aims to educate youth about the dangers of substance misuse, including the use of naloxone and Fentanyl test strips.

Additionally, the board recognized the contributions of local organizations, including the Olathe Public Schools, which has launched its own \"Facing Fentanyl\" campaign. This initiative focuses on reducing substance abuse and overdose deaths through education, prevention programs, and recovery support.

Rachel Perez, a community prevention coordinator with the Johnson County Mental Health Center, and Heidi Tomas, the Fentanyl and Substance Abuse Education Specialist for Olathe Public Schools, spoke about their coalition's efforts to combat stigma and improve access to treatment options. They highlighted the importance of community partnerships and shared experiences in addressing the ongoing substance abuse crisis.

The meeting served as a platform to reinforce the county's commitment to tackling substance abuse and supporting those affected by it, while also encouraging community involvement in prevention and recovery efforts.