Collaboration isn’t just a strategy — it’s the foundation for stronger, more sustainable solutions to the opioid crisis.
This was the key message from a webinar session underscoring that lasting impact comes when counties work together, engage partners across sectors, and build regional networks that break down silos.
KACo recently hosted this latest session in the Opioid Solutions Monthly Webinar Series, with a focus on regional collaboration.
The discussion highlighted how counties can maximize the impact of their opioid settlement funds by breaking down barriers, pooling resources and coordinating across shared communities.
As was noted in the opening, counties “really do it all” — but substance use disorder and behavioral health are not always within their areas of expertise. That’s why regional collaboration is so powerful.
By investing in training, strengthening cross-system coordination, and building partnerships, counties can expand their capacity and create strategies with measurable impact.
The spotlight was on the Regional Offices of Drug Control Policy (ODCP), housed within Kentucky’s area development districts. These offices are leading multi-county initiatives that strengthen prevention, treatment, and recovery supports across regions.
Two outstanding leaders shared their experiences:
- Amanda Peters, director of the Northern Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, described how her region established the ODCP, built out key initiatives, and developed a care helpline approach to connect families and individuals to resources. Her focus underscored the importance of crisis stabilization, resource navigation and sustained community partnerships.
- Brooke Edwards, representing the Barren River region, highlighted how regional collaboration is expanding prevention, treatment and recovery supports. Both speakers emphasized that sustainability depends on collaboration — counties can achieve more when they align strategies and share resources.
Watch the full recording and presentation materials here: Regional Collaboration Webinar
