Substance Abuse Council of Vanderburgh County

The Substance Abuse Council of Vanderburgh County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the incidence of substance abuse in Vanderburgh County, Indiana. Established in 1990, it was initially organized in cooperation with the United Way Task Force on alcohol and drug abuse. The council was formally incorporated in 1995 and gained 501(c)3 status in 1996, enabling it to operate as a tax-exempt entity.

Mission and Vision

The council's mission is to prevent and reduce the incidence of alcohol, drug abuse, and other co-related addictive behaviors among both youth and adults in Vanderburgh County. The vision is to serve as a community resource aimed at eliminating the negative consequences of substance abuse by identifying and addressing unmet needs in drug and alcohol abuse prevention, treatment, and law enforcement.

Activities and Funding

The council focuses its efforts in three key areas:

• Treatment and Intervention: Providing resources for all levels of care, reducing barriers to treatment, and supporting accreditation and certifications that enhance access to care for the uninsured and under-insured.
• Prevention and Education: Implementing evidence-based substance use prevention programs, particularly targeting at-risk, low-income, and minority students. Educational programs are designed for all age groups and cover topics such as alcohol, tobacco, and drug use, as well as related issues like domestic violence and child abuse.
• Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice: Supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to investigate and prosecute drug-related offenses, improving investigative capabilities, and funding necessary equipment and personnel.

Funding for these initiatives is primarily derived from the "Drug Free Community Fund," which collects fees from court-ordered countermeasures. These fees, ranging from $200 to $1,000, are levied by local courts and deposited into this fund. The council distributes these funds through grants to community agencies involved in substance abuse prevention, treatment, and law enforcement.

Community Engagement

The Substance Abuse Council of Vanderburgh County actively engages with the community through monthly meetings that include representatives from various community groups and organizations. It also advocates for policies supporting substance abuse prevention and treatment resources, aiming to increase public awareness about substance use disorder treatment effectiveness and the need for community support for those seeking recovery.