Changes at "Recovery Activation Corner"

Grant Proposal for MADMOMS )Mothers Against Drugs Inc.) Honoring the Legacy of Ja’Maar 5ive Johnson: Recovery Corner Project

Mothers Against Drugs Inc. (MADMOMS) Honoring the Legacy of Ja’Maar 5ive Johnson is a survivor-led movement dedicated to healing and engaging communities in Boston and the surrounding areas affected by substance use disorders, grief, and loss from substance-related issues and other tragedies. Founded by a mother with lived experience after losing her son, MADMOMS unites families to raise awareness, provide support, and collaborate with other organizations. We are dedicated to creating compassionate healing spaces where individuals can connect with others who understand their journeys, allowing them to feel safe and find relief amidst their pain. Together, we strive to lift each other up and embrace the power that emerges from our pain.

I. Executive Summary

MADMOMS seeks a $5000 grant to establish a Recovery Corner at the Codman Square Public Library which has graciously approved our initiative. This project aims to provide vital resources and education for families affected by substance use disorders and to promote awareness for the entire community, including educators, businesses, and organizations in a safe space.

II. Organizational Overview

MADMOMS is dedicated to supporting families facing substance use disorders. Our mission centers on education, resource provision, healing and advocacy to foster understanding and promote harm reduction strategies crucial for healthier family dynamics.

III. Project Description

Project Title: Recovery Corner

Location: Codman Square Branch Public Library, 690 Washington Street in Dorchester

Objective: To create an engaging and informative space designed to educate the community about substance use and provide support resources for all ages.

IV. Target Audience

The Recovery Corner will serve families, children, and teenagers in Dorchester, especially those impacted by substance use. This initiative aims not only to inform affected families but also to raise awareness within the community, including teachers, organizational leaders, and local businesses.

V. Project Components

1. Recovery Activation Table: (English & Spanish)

   This interactive table will be a focal point for community engagement, and an invitation to create art featuring:

     Art activities related to substance use and mental health education.

     Age-specific booklets and resources tailored to meet the needs of various demographics.

2. Resource Distribution: (English & Spanish)

   Collect and organize educational materials from diverse sources, ensuring comprehensive coverage of topics surrounding harm reduction and understanding substance use.

VI. Importance of the Project

The Recovery Corner addresses a critical need in Dorchester, providing essential information that empowers families to recognize the signs of substance use in themselves and their loved ones. Its benefits extend to the entire community:

Educating Families: By providing resources and information, families in Dorchester can better identify the signs of substance use and seek help when necessary.

Supporting Community Awareness: The Recovery Corner will also serve teachers and local businesses in Dorchester, promoting a culture of understanding around substance use and recovery that can lead to meaningful community dialogue.

Fostering Connections: This initiative creates an opportunity for various community stakeholders to learn about recovery, paving the way for collaboration in supporting individuals and families dealing with substance use issues.

VII. Budget Overview

The $5000 grant will be allocated as follows:

VIII. Conclusion

The Recovery Corner at the Codman Square Public Library marks a significant step toward fostering community understanding and support for families impacted by substance use disorders. By approving this grant, you will play a vital role in empowering the Dorchester community, promoting knowledge and recovery for all.

I would like to share some relevant statistics and data points about substance use and its impact on families and children in the Dorchester and Boston areas, along with insights on the potential benefits of introducing a Recovery Corner:

Substance Use Statistics in Boston/Dorchester

1. Boston Substance Use Disorder Prevalence:

   According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, opioid-related overdose deaths in Boston remained a significant concern, with the city experiencing hundreds of overdose fatalities annually, indicating a systemic issue.

2. Youth Substance Use:

   A 2020 survey from the Boston Public Health Commission found that approximately 30% of high school students had used alcohol in the past month, with rates of marijuana use also notable among teens (around 20%).

   Research indicates that early education about substance use can significantly reduce rates of future use among children and teens.

3. Impact on Families:

   The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that families affected by substance use disorders often experience higher levels of stress and instability, which can lead to detrimental outcomes for children, including mental health issues and academic decline.

Benefits of Recovery Corners and Art Therapy

1. Art as a Therapeutic Tool:

   Studies show that art therapy can facilitate emotional expression and healing, particularly for those impacted by trauma or substance use. Engaging in art can help individuals communicate their feelings and experiences in a non-verbal way.

    Research published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment indicates that creative therapies can enhance coping skills and promote recovery in both adults and youth.

2. Community Engagement:

   According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), community-based interventions that involve education and outreach in familiar settings (like libraries) are effective in reducing stigma and increasing engagement with substance use resources.

   Libraries are often seen as safe spaces for families, making them ideal locations for community health initiatives.

3. Statistics on Awareness and Prevention:

   The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that early intervention can prevent substance use and reduce the likelihood of developing substance use disorders later in life.

    A study in the Journal of Community Health found that communities with resources dedicated to educating families about substance use saw a 40% increase in awareness and willingness to seek help.

Incorporating Fun and Creative Elements

1. Interactive Learning:

   Programs incorporating art, such as the Recovery Activation Table, allow children and families to learn about substance use in engaging and supportive environments, making the information more accessible and relatable.

   Workshops that fuse art and education can foster connection among participants and encourage open discussions about substance use.

Thank you for considering our proposal. Together, we can create a positive impact on the lives of many families and the broader community.