Expanding the SUN Project into Rowan and Stanly Counties:
In November 2023, the SUN Project initiated expansion efforts into Rowan and Stanly Counties. The Suda Institute orchestrated a three-day Action Planning Retreat, bringing together 23 participants from 14 community agencies and three individuals with lived experience. During this intensive retreat, attendees received comprehensive training on topics such as stigma, collaboration, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), and confidentiality laws specific to Substance Use.
The retreat also provided a platform for participants to delve into current gaps in perinatal substance use treatment and formulate actionable items to address these issues in their respective communities. Over the next six months, the Suda Institute will actively assist these communities in establishing Governing, Steering, and Monthly Care Coordination groups, aligning with the action plans developed during the retreat. Additionally, with the creative assistance of graphic artists from ImageThink, the action plans for both Rowan and Stanly Counties have been visually illustrated for clarity and impact. Stay tuned for further updates on the positive impact of our expansion efforts!