New Website Launch Empowers Community to Combat Youth Substance Abuse Through Accessible Training Program
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California Department of Health Care Access and Information, in partnership with the California Alliance of Child and Family Services’ Catalyst Center, the California Association of Alcohol and Drug Program Executives, Inc. (CAADPE), and the National Council for Mental Wellbeing (National Council), proudly announces the launch of the Open Doors Training website. This website is dedicated to the groundbreaking initiative aimed at reducing substance misuse and overdose deaths among California’s youth.
The Open Doors Training website will serve as the central hub for information about the project, offering updates on the training program’s development, resources for those working with youth, and avenues for community involvement. Central to the site is an interest form that allows visitors to sign up and stay informed about the progress of the training initiative, including key updates on the program's launch.
With California experiencing a dramatic 121% increase in opioid-related deaths between 2019 and 2021, largely due to the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, the urgency for non-medical personnel to be equipped with the skills to recognize and respond to early signs of substance misuse among youth has never been greater. The new website will facilitate access to the forthcoming training program, designed to meet this critical need.
The core training program, which will launch statewide in May 2025, will provide essential education to adults who regularly interact with youth, equipping them with the tools to identify early signs of substance use and connect young people with the support they need. The website will also feature updates on the ongoing focus groups and community consultations that are shaping the program to be inclusive and effective.
Visit the Open Doors Training website today to learn more about the initiative, access valuable resources, and fill out the interest form to stay informed as we prepare to launch this lifesaving training.
This platform will be a key resource for individuals and organizations committed to communicating about substance use with youth. By engaging with the website, visitors can stay informed and contribute to a community-driven approach to this public health crisis.
Christine Stoner-Mertz, CEO of the CA Alliance and the Catalyst Center, highlighted the role of the website in the broader initiative.
The launch of the Open Doors Training website represents a significant milestone in our mission to empower adults who interact with youth to take an active role in safeguarding their well-being. We encourage everyone invested in the future of our youth to visit the site, fill out the interest form, and join us in this essential effort.
Robb Layne, Executive Director of CAADPE, emphasized the importance of community involvement
The Open Doors Training website is not just a gateway to information—it’s a call to action. By filling out the interest form, community members can ensure they are among the first to receive training updates and be part of the solution to one of the most pressing issues facing our youth today.
Chuck Ingoglia, President and CEO of the National Council
Contact:
Max Geide, ma*@ca****.org
Alina Sanchez, as******@ca*************.org
