Quick response team ready to help

To the editor:

Jay County Quick Response Team is here.

Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition (JCDPC) was awarded a grant through the state of Indiana through the end of April 2019. This funding permitted the development of rapid response for individuals who have overdosed and to facilitate access to treatment for individuals struggling with addiction.

This funding brought national training to Jay County for individuals who were interested in learning about a quick response team and for others to become certified peer recovery coaches.

The primary focus of the quick response team (QRT) is to assess an individual’s needs, symptoms and strengths to determine an appropriate, individualized plan for intervention. The QRT is a non-emergency, multidisciplinary team comprised of peer recovery coaches and a licensed clinical addictions counselor.

The purpose of a peer recovery coach is to promote recovery from alcohol and other substances by removing barriers and obstacles for individuals to obtain recovery and by serving as a personal guide and mentor for individuals.

The role of a peer recovery coach is to be a motivator/cheerleader, ally/confidant, truth-teller, role model, problem solver, resource broker, advocate, community organizer, lifestyle consultant and companion.

A peer recovery coach is not a: sponsor, counselor, nurse/doctor, attorney/lawyer or priest/minister/rabbi.

The four goals are to promote recovery, remove barriers, connect people with recovery support services and encourage hope, optimism and healthy living.

Our trained and nationally certified peer recovery coaches volunteer their time to connect clients with local resources. Our team provides transportation to meetings and appointments, assistance with documentation needed to enter treatment or employment, resource assistance,  as well as occasional meals for those in need.

JCDPC is accepting tax-deductible donations to assist in covering the cost to help those in need. Donations can be mailed to JCDPC, 129 E. Water St., Portland, IN 47371. Any donation would be greatly appreciated.

Can you or someone you know benefit from having a peer recovery coach?

You can contact the Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition for more information.

Ally Raines

Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition