Edinburgh Group Celebrates Tripled Attendance at Support Meetings Since Moving Location

Attendance at Johnson County's Opioid Advisory Meeting has seen a decline, with current figures averaging around 20 participants, down from 30. The meeting, which focuses on addressing opioid-related issues, has maintained good retention among agencies, though individual attendance fluctuates.

Key discussions highlighted the need for a dedicated part-time position to boost engagement and improve outreach efforts. The proposal includes exploring grant funding and potential sponsorships from local entities that benefit from the advisory group's recommendations. The goal is to secure around $50,000 to sustain this role, which is seen as crucial for enhancing the county's response to opioid challenges.

In addition to administrative concerns, the meeting addressed the distribution of naloxone, a life-saving medication used to counteract opioid overdoses. The county has been distributing between 250 to 300 doses monthly since late 2022, although tracking their usage remains a challenge.

The meeting also featured updates from local support groups, such as Celebrate Recovery, which has seen a tripling of attendance since relocating to a new venue. This growth underscores the community's increasing engagement in recovery efforts.

Overall, the discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration and resource allocation to effectively tackle the ongoing opioid crisis in Johnson County. The next steps involve solidifying funding for the proposed position and continuing to foster partnerships that enhance community health initiatives.