In 2016, Adams County Overdose Awareness Taskforce was formed as an initiative of the Criminal Justice Advisory Board.  Over the years the Center for Youth and Community Development became a supportive lead agency for this initiative.   In 2023 the taskforce came together to make decisions about the vision, mission and structure of the group.  It was agreed that any overdose death is a tragedy in Adams County, because each of our residents matter as a family member, community member, and a person.  The group decided that 'coalition' was a better term for where they were headed, but that strong partnerships with community agencies was still a priority.   A reprioritization to meet the specific needs of Adams Countians in treatment and recovery, to continue to prevent overdose deaths, and to reduce stigma while supporting families who have lost loved ones or been impacted by addiction are initial focus areas of the group.  Adams County continues to be a place where we place people as our first priority.  This is a grassroots effort, supported by leadership, to empower the community to help people struggling with substance use which is a symptom or result of other issues affecting our neighbors.  A person isn't an addiction and people can move on and be productive members of our community.  “Walking together we can go further.”  

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The core values of the Adams County Coalition for Overdose Awareness & Recovery:
1.  We will collaborate to prevent overdose deaths in Adams County, Pennsylvania. 
2.  Our meetings, events, and advocacy efforts will be fair and accessible to all community members
3.  We will give voice to the prevention, treatment and recovery communities of Adams County
4.  We will act as a community of support for overcoming addiction, providing access to treatment, and champion recovery in Adams County.
5.  We will follow data-driven, evidence-based and best practices strategies to support individuals and families in our community

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The coalition is coordinated by the staff at The Center for Youth & Community Development, home of Collaborating for Youth & the Coalition for Overdose Awareness & Recovery and meets monthly on the 3rd Tuesday of each month currently via zoom and in person. Email coalition@cfygttysburg.com for more information.

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