Program Background and Purpose
The Police Assisted Addiction Recovery Initiative (PAARI) has long been dedicated to bridging the gap between public safety and public health, creating pathways into treatment for those affected by substance use disorders. PAARI provides training, technical assistance, and resources to help law enforcement agencies across the country create non-arrest pathways for treatment and recovery. PAARI was founded as a nonprofit alongside the Angel Program, which was launched in June 2015 by the Gloucester Police Department to create a simple, stigma-free entry point to treatment on demand and reframe addiction as a disease, not a crime. PAARI complemented the Angel Program’s work by helping law enforcement agencies create diversion programs that prevent and reduce overdose deaths and expand access to treatment and recovery.
PAARI is now a national network of 700 Police Departments in 46 states, focusing on supporting non-arrest, or early diversion, program models that reach people before they enter the criminal justice system. With a mission rooted in community support and innovative intervention, PAARI has launched various programs aimed at reducing harm and fostering recovery.
The establishment of the Lived Experience Council (LEC) over the past year represents a significant step towards enhancing PAARI’s effectiveness. The LEC ensures that the voices of those most affected by substance use disorders are heard and integrated into the organization’s decision-making processes. This council, PAARI’s board, and the PAARI Public Safety Council form a “three-legged stool” that provides a balanced and comprehensive approach to supporting diversion efforts for individuals with polysubstance use disorder.
Lived Experience Council Formation and Structure
The LEC aims to maintain balanced and diverse representation, including both individuals with lived experience and their family members. Initially setting out to have around 10 members, the council expanded its membership due to the overwhelming response to their national call for applications. Membership is now open to anyone interested, with those who attend more than half of the meetings in a year becoming full members.
The current council primarily comprises individuals with firsthand experience with opioid use, but efforts are ongoing to increase the diversity of lived experiences represented. Geographically, the LEC consists of strong representation from the Northeast and Appalachian regions, where the opioid epidemic hit first, but with representation from across the United States. Members of the council are in active recovery, parents or loved ones who have lost individuals to substance use disorders, and family members of those in active recovery.
Roles and Impact
The LEC plays a crucial role within PAARI by providing feedback, advice, and opinions on various initiatives. Members participate in monthly meetings and surveys, contributing to discussions that shape PAARI’s programs and agenda.
In less than a year following its establishment, the council has already made tangible impacts. For example, their feedback will lead to resource creation on more sensitive communication practices by police regarding the sharing of death information with family members. Additionally, the LEC has influenced the design and placement of naloxone vending machines and boxes, addressing community barriers and ensuring accessibility. Council members have also presented at national summits, sharing their stories and advocating for change on behalf of PAARI.
Challenges and Solutions
PAARI has implemented guidelines and meeting structures based on council member feedback to maximize participation. A mission statement specifically for the council has been crafted, emphasizing the importance of their input: “Our mission is to confront the polysubstance use disorder crisis by drawing on our lived experience and engaging in timely, intentional, and solution-oriented discussion so that PAARI partners can be guided by the invaluable input and perspective of individuals closest to the problem.” However, scheduling meetings remains a challenge, especially for members on the West Coast. PAARI continues to seek solutions to ensure inclusive and convenient participation.
Collaboration and Community Engagement
The LEC is committed to engaging with the broader community, ensuring diverse perspectives are included in PAARI’s programs. Members are empowered to share their stories, connecting with other communities and enhancing the impact of PAARI’s initiatives. This storytelling not only aids in internal program improvement but also fosters a greater understanding among and connection with the public.
Looking to the Future
PAARI envisions the LEC playing a pivotal role in future endeavors. Plans include utilizing the council for national webinars and creating roll call videos to share their stories within the police community. These resources aim to spread the message of recovery and provide hope, particularly within law enforcement circles. Additionally, the council will help develop online resources for police and partners, informed by the lived experiences of its members.
Conclusion
The LEC, led by board members Stephen Jesi and Annette Kahrs and supported by leaders like Cameron Breen and Malia Fox, has been instrumental in PAARI’s mission over the past year. Through monthly meetings, networking, and training, the council ensures that those closest to the opioid crisis have an active voice in shaping PAARI’s programs.
As PAARI continues to build on this foundation, the LEC is a vital component of its strategy to confront the polysubstance use disorder crisis. The annual joint meetings between the Public Safety Council and the LEC, along with year-end gatherings involving all interested parties, underscore the collaborative spirit driving PAARI’s efforts.
By integrating lived experiences into its leadership and decision-making processes, PAARI is not only more effective but also more compassionate, addressing the opioid crisis with the empathy and insight it demands.
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