The Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati recently hosted a training on addressing prescription and over-the-counter drug abuse in communities.

“Moving From Awareness to Action” was be presented by:

• Mike Puccini (Business Development Manager for Kroger),
• Dan Urra (Coalition Administrator for the Coalition for a Healthy Oxford),
• Mary Haag (President/Executive Director of the Coalition for a Drug-Free Greater Cincinnati), and
• Marc Grodner (Vice President of Alcohol and Other Drug Services for HCMHRSB)

Communities were provided with:

• The requirements and steps on implementing a Prescription Drug Take Back Program
• The opportunity to hear from a community that organized and implemented a Prescription Drug Take Back Program
• Other strategies communities can implement to address prescription & over-the- counter medication abuse
• Updates on what the State of Ohio is doing to address prescription drug abuse
• The opportunity to connect with Leadership Cincinnati and other parties interested in supporting take back events
  

Nearly 30 people attended the training from all across the region, representing community coalitions and other organizations from Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.  If you were unable to attend the training and would like more information, please contact Tommy Koopman.

Also, the American Medicine Chest Challenge, a national public health initiative, has officially been launched! In anticipation of the November 13, 2010 national day of prescription drug abuse awareness and disposal, you are invited to participate in a 60-minute "Welcome to the American Medicine Chest Challenge" conference call. Please visit www.americanmedicinechest.com

 to register and receive call-in information.

 Pictures from the event: