AMHC, in collaboration with UR Medicine Recovery Center of Excellence, is excited to present the "Community Conversations on Opioid Use Disorder & Train the Trainer Workshops." This two-part workshop aims to reduce the stigma surrounding substance use disorder (SUD) in rural communities, addressing a significant barrier to recovery by improving access to support and treatment. The workshops will be held on three dates at various locations across Aroostook County, making it accessible to community members, service providers, and individuals with lived experience. Participants who complete an evaluation at the end of the session will be entered into a $50 Amazon gift card drawing, with each participant eligible to win only once.
Houlton—Tuesday, October 15th
Houlton Regional Hospital
Conference Room
20 Hartford Street, Houlton
Community Discussion: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Train the Trainer: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm*
Fort Kent—Wednesday, October 16th
University of Maine at Fort Kent
Nadeau Teleconference Room
23 University Drive, Fort Kent
Community Discussion: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Train the Trainer: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm*
Presque Isle‑Thursday, October 17th
Northern Maine Community College
Edmunds Conference Center
33 Edgemont Drive, Presque Isle
Community Discussion: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Train the Trainer: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm*
* You must attend Part One: Community Conversations on Opioid Use Disorder in order to participate in Part Two: Train the Trainer.
Part One: Community Conversations on Opioid Use Disorder
Participants will engage in discussions that go beyond traditional academic approaches, bringing the issue of substance use disorder (SUD) to life through portraits and videos of individuals who have experienced it firsthand. The workshop offers a space for attendees to examine their beliefs about stigma, explore how we support people with SUD and their families, and collaborate on ways to reduce stigma within our communities.
Part Two: Train the Trainer*
In this 4-hour training session, participants will immerse themselves in the Community Conversations on Opioid Disorder curriculum, honing their facilitation skills and learning how to deliver the workshop effectively in their communities. By the end of the session, they will have crafted actionable plans to reduce stigma and foster recovery, equipped with the tools and strategies to lead impactful discussions.
* You must attend Part One: Community Conversations on Opioid Use Disorder in order to participate in Part Two: Train the Trainer.
Two-Part Workshop Objectives:
- Increase Awareness: Enhance understanding of the profound impact stigma has on individuals with SUD.
- Empower Facilitators: Provide participants with the tools and confidence to lead Community Conversations in their communities.
- Strengthen Communities: Foster more supportive, inclusive rural communities where recovery is embraced and stigma is reduced.
"The training and discussion are not just about education; it's about fostering real change in our communities," said Deb Jacques, Director of Marketing and Development at AMHC. "We are bringing together people from all walks of life to challenge their perceptions and work collaboratively to support those affected by substance use disorder."
“Community Conversations & Train the Trainer Workshops” is essential for anyone committed to making a positive difference in their community. Whether you are a healthcare provider, first responder, or someone with lived experience, this event will provide the skills and knowledge needed to challenge stigma and support recovery. By participating, you will join a movement dedicated to creating more inclusive, compassionate communities where everyone has the opportunity to recover and thrive.
