OUR COMMUNITY IMPACT

In 2023, the Chicago Recovering Communities Coalition (CRCC), a dedicated Recovery Community Organization (RCO) in Chicago, continued its unwavering commitment to support individuals and communities impacted by substance use.

 

Through a variety of innovative programs, training sessions, and community events, CRCC has made significant strides in opioid overdose prevention, harm reduction, and recovery support. Below is a comprehensive recap of our efforts and their impacts throughout the year.

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Opioid Overdose Prevention & Naloxone Training

• Training Classes: CRCC conducted 26 training classes focused on opioid overdose prevention and the proper use of Naloxone, a life-saving medication.

• People Trained: A total of 570 individuals received this crucial training.

• Naloxone Distribution: Approximately 600 cartons of Nasal Narcan (around 1,160 devices) were distributed to individuals and organizations.

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Peer Recovery Support Services (PRSS) Highlights

• Throughout the year, 206 individuals benefited from our Peer Recovery Support Services (PRSS), receiving tailored support and guidance pivotal to their recovery journey. These services underscore the essential role of peer support in fostering a supportive community for those in recovery.

 

Narcan Newsstand Initiative

• Located at the intersection of Cicero and Madison, the Narcan Newsstand has become a vital resource in our harm reduction efforts.

• CRCC Harm Reduction Bags Distributed: 205 bags containing Narcan, Fentanyl test strips, facemasks, hand sanitizer, condoms, and other essential harm reduction supplies were distributed, along with 205 Nasal Narcan Cartons (410 devices) and 410 Fentanyl Test Strips.

 

Recovery Task Force

• Monthly Meetings: The Recovery Task Force held 12 monthly meetings, facilitating collaboration and communication among stakeholders.

• Organization Partners: We proudly partnered with 166 organizations committed to recovery and substance use disorder prevention.

 

Westside ROSC Council

• Monthly Meetings: The council convened 12 times throughout the year, discussing strategies and initiatives to support recovery.

• Recovery Symposiums: Hosted 2 symposiums, attracting 307 attendees from the community, city, and state organizations.

 

2023 Events Highlights

• 34th Annual Recovery Walk and Olympics: A cornerstone event celebrating recovery and raising awareness.

• Overdose Awareness Resource Event: Held at Cook County Jail/Criminal Courts, including Opioid Overdose Prevention & Naloxone Training for staff and inmates.

• Breast Cancer Awareness Event: An important initiative highlighting the intersection of cancer and substance use recovery.

• Collaboration with Rush University SUD-COE: Focused on Faith-Based SUD/Overdose Prevention Sessions, including Narcan training on the West Side of Chicago.

• All Recovery Meetings: Open to the community, these 51 meetings welcomed approximately 500 attendees.

• High School Opioid Overdose Prevention: Provided training to two Western Suburb High Schools, emphasizing youth education on overdose prevention.

• Recovery Support Services: Offered a wide range of services including recovery education and support meetings to treatment centers, community organizations, and recovery homes.

• All-Recovery Monthly Dinner: We launched a monthly dinner event at True Freedom Ministries Church, designed to nurture community and support among individuals on their recovery path. This gathering has become a cornerstone for connection and shared experiences within the recovery community.

 

As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2023, CRCC remains dedicated to expanding our outreach, enhancing our programs, and strengthening our community partnerships. Our collective efforts have not only saved lives but have also empowered individuals and communities to embark on the path to recovery.

 

We look forward to continuing this vital work in 2024 and beyond, with gratitude for the support of our partners, volunteers, and the communities we serve. Together, we are making a difference in the fight against substance use and fostering hope and healing in Chicago.