Healthy Community Initiative

By Ashley Gardner as a Guest Columnist for the Faribault Daily News

September is National Recovery Month, and at Healthy Community Initiative we are celebrating both the power of recovery and the harm reduction work that’s been accomplished through the efforts of the Rice County Chemical and Mental Health Coalition (RCCMHC).

Here are some highlights of that work over the past year:

• The Mobile Opioid Support Team (MOST) served 247 participants, with more than 2,000 contacts and 92 referrals to treatment. MOST is committed to serving people wherever they are on their journey with opioid or stimulant use. The team helps people make changes in their lives by meeting them where they are and by providing free support and connection to resources. To connect with MOST, call 507-299-0204 or email MOSTlead@healthfindersmn.org.
• We have placed 71 naloxone access boxes throughout Northfield, Faribault, Lonsdale, and Dundas, and we have distributed 810 nasal naloxone kits and 119 fentanyl test strip (FTS) kits. The boxes provide unmediated access to those seeking naloxone and help to reduce the stigma around substance use in general by being out in the community, front and center at community locations.
• We have trained 196 people in how to administer naloxone, the medication that can reverse an opioid overdose. We offer free community trainings for organizations and individuals. To learn more and schedule a training, email rccmhc@healthycommunityinitiative.org. Learn more about naloxone at ricecountycmhc.org/naloxone/.

We’d also like to emphasize this month that recovery is for everyone: every person, every family, every community. As part of National Recovery Month, the RCCMHC is hosting an annual family-friendly event that builds connections among those impacted by substance use. We hope you can join us on Thursday, Sept. 25, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Faribault’s Central Park.

Enjoy a free meal of brats and burgers, accompanied by baked beans, chips, and cookies. We’ll hear from 10 inspiring speakers who will share their stories of experience, strength, and hope–including residents of sober housing, graduates of treatment court, MOST participants, and dedicated professionals in the chemical health field. Some speakers are just beginning their recovery journey and others are celebrating many years.

We’ll also have a guest DJ playing tunes, tables with resources, and lots of fun activities for all ages–with plenty of ways to learn, connect, and enjoy the day. For the latest updates, follow the RCCMHC on Facebook.

We are grateful to all our sponsors for their generous support of this year’s Recovery in the Park: The Faribault Foundation, Junk Truck MN, Rice County Chemical and Mental Health Coalition, Rice County Treatment Court, A Way Out Sober Living, Frandsen Bank and Trust, Hy-Vee, Fareway Foods, Cub Foods, Northfield Retirement Community By Vivie, Cedar Lake Electric, and Faribault Parks and Recreation.

With the right support and resources, a healing and fulfilling life is made possible. Sharing stories and offering support can inspire hope and make a lasting impact on those seeking a path to wellness. Thank you for your support and for joining us in celebrating Recovery Month!