NCAPDA recently partnered with our UC Berkeley cohort of Interns and the Berkeley Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) to host an on-campus CPR and Overdose Rescue Workshop. This essential training aimed to equip participants with life-saving skills, such as how to recognize and respond to an overdose and how to provide CPR and use an AED device to save a life. Attendees were given a free NARCAN kit and an Overdose Rescue Training certificate from NCAPDA after completing the training. We extend our gratitude to all who attended and contributed to making this workshop a success.

NCAPDA recently partnered with the San Ramon Valley School District (SRVUSD) and San Ramon Valley Council of PTAs to host Celebrating and Protecting Our Youth, an event focused on raising awareness about prescription drug abuse. This event served as a platform to explore prevention strategies and offer valuable resources. It featured local youth showcasing their 2024 Capstone projects, which addressed commonly abused medications, fentanyl, and teen party drugs. The event also highlighted the winning art pieces from our Fentanyl Safety Art Contest, showcasing the talent of students from SRVUSD High Schools. Our involvement in this event contributed to important conversations surrounding prescription drug abuse, emphasizing our commitment to community well-being.

The Fentanyl Safety Award Art Contest, sponsored by the San Ramon Unified School District (SRVUSD) Wellness Centers, the San Ramon Valley PTSAs, and the NCAPDA, recently concluded. High school students across SRVUSD showcased their artistic talents while raising awareness about the dangers of. fentanyl in illegal street drugs and fake prescription medications. The submissions were judged on criteria including Creativity/Originality, Adherence to Theme, and Overall Appeal/Quality. Thanks to all of the students who participated, and congratulations to our winners who were recognized during our “Celebrating and Protecting Our Youth” event on March 26th.

Over St. Patrick’s Day weekend in March, NCAPDA participated in the Dublin St. Patrick’s Day Celebration event, raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and educating attendees on life-saving techniques. By the end of the festival, we had trained and distributed naloxone overdose rescue kits to 265 community members. We extend a heartfelt shout out to NCAPDA’s volunteer staff whose dedication and support ensured this event was a success. Their commitment exemplifies the spirit of compassion and service that drives our organization’s mission to combat opioid abuse and save lives.

We’re delighted to share that NCAPDA continued its impactful tradition during the month of March, securing official recognition of Prescription Drug Awareness Month by the cities of Dublin and San Ramon. Taking advantage of the time allowed for public comment, our Youth Ambassadors and Executive Director shared the importance of prescription drug and fentanyl safety and the need for as many community members as possible to have naloxone on hand in case of an overdose emergency.

Over the course of two Saturday sessions, NCAPDA recently hosted a Naloxone Kit Building Marathon that resulted in a total of 2,400 overdose rescue kits being built to combat our Bay Area overdose epidemic. These kits serve as crucial tools in emergency situations, providing individuals with the means to administer naloxone and potentially save lives. The event’s success not only highlights the importance of community collaboration but also underscores NCAPDA’s commitment to addressing the opioid crisis through proactive measures. We extend our appreciation to our Youth Ambassadors, UC Berkeley student interns, and other community volunteers who participated in this important activity.

