The Sebastian County Opioid Task Force invites the community to attend the Sebastian County Opioid Summit on April 4 from 9 a.m.- p.m. at the ACHE Research Institute Health & Wellness Center in Fort Smith, Ark. The summit will bring together experts and community leaders to discuss the critical issues surrounding substance abuse, particularly the effects of opioids on youth, as well as strategies for prevention and intervention.
The summit will focus on the importance of educating the community, particularly families, educators, and health professionals, about the effects of opioids on young people.
A special message will be delivered by State Representative Jay Richardson, addressing the ongoing efforts to combat substance abuse and its devastating impact on the community. Featured speakers will include professionals and organizations at the forefront of substance abuse education and intervention, including representatives from University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), Harbor House, Inc., and Sebastian County Sheriff's Office.
In addition, there will be a personal story from Lisa C. Myers, RN, from Mercy Fort Smith and a panel featuring Restore Hope 2GEN, Shield Our Youth, The Call and Western Arkansas Counseling and Guidance Center.
The event is free and open to the public. All community members are encouraged to attend to learn more about the resources available to combat the opioid crisis and support youth in Sebastian County.