Trainings and Resources
“Training is not an expense, but an investment in human capital.”
SACHR offers a wide range of training programs to equip staff, volunteers, and community members with the knowledge and skills necessary to support individuals who use substances and to promote public health. we have had much success working with various organizations, clinics, shelters, bars, restaurants, and schools to promote a higher quality of health across our communities and want to bring these resources to you!
please reach out to us here if you have any questions or concerns. all trainings are available in english and spanish.
Here are the available trainings currently offered at sachr:
Naloxone (Narcan) training
Naloxone training focuses on equipping participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to prevent opioid overdose deaths. It begins by teaching the basics of how opioids affect the body, signs of an overdose, and the importance of swift action in saving lives. The training includes step-by-step instructions on how to administer naloxone via nasal spray or injection and emphasizes the importance of calling emergency services as part of the response. Participants also learn about state laws and Good Samaritan protections that encourage bystanders to intervene without fear of legal repercussions. We will provide free naloxone kits for participants to take home upon completion of the session.
Harm Reduction Principles and Practices
This training introduces participants to the core principles of harm reduction, emphasizing a compassionate, person-centered approach to addressing substance use. It highlights the importance of meeting individuals “where they are” without judgment or coercion and respecting their autonomy and choices. Participants learn about harm reduction strategies, such as syringe exchange programs, overdose prevention, and safer consumption methods. The training also discusses the broader social and systemic factors that contribute to substance use, such as poverty, stigma, and racial inequality, and explores ways to advocate for policy change.
Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-informed care training helps participants understand the profound effects of trauma on individuals' behaviors, decision-making, and mental health. It explores how substance use often serves as a coping mechanism for unresolved trauma and provides tools for creating safe and supportive environments. The training emphasizes recognizing trauma triggers, avoiding re-traumatization, and using de-escalation techniques to foster trust and collaboration. Additionally, participants learn about self-care strategies to maintain their own mental health while working with trauma-affected populations.
Cultural Competency and DEIA Training
Cultural competency training focuses on building awareness and sensitivity to the diverse cultural, racial, ethnic, and gender identities of the people served in harm reduction settings. Participants learn about the importance of acknowledging systemic inequities and biases, and how these factors impact individuals’ access to care. The training includes practical strategies for creating inclusive environments and communicating effectively across cultural differences. By fostering understanding and respect, this training helps reduce stigma and build stronger connections with marginalized communities.
Overdose Prevention and Management
This training educates participants on identifying and responding to overdoses caused by a variety of substances, including opioids, stimulants, and alcohol. It provides detailed information about the physiological signs of overdose, such as slowed breathing, unconsciousness, and bluish skin tones in opioid overdoses, and elevated heart rate or seizures in stimulant overdoses. Participants learn prevention techniques, such as encouraging safer usage methods and recognizing early warning signs. The training also covers immediate response actions, including CPR, the use of naloxone, and activating emergency services.
HIV/Hepatitis C Prevention and Education
This training focuses on reducing the spread of bloodborne infections, such as HIV and Hepatitis C, among people who use drugs and their communities. It covers the modes of transmission for these diseases, the importance of regular testing, and strategies to minimize risk, such as using sterile syringes and safer sex practices. Participants learn how to provide educational materials, distribute harm reduction supplies, and connect individuals to healthcare services, including treatment for HIV or Hepatitis C.
Case Management and Participant Advocacy
Case management training prepares participants to provide holistic, individualized support to participants navigating substance use challenges. The training emphasizes effective communication, goal setting, and active listening skills to build trust and rapport. Participants learn how to identify clients’ needs, connect them to medical care, housing, mental health services, and employment opportunities, and advocate for their rights within systems of care. Practical tools for documentation and follow-up are also included.
Self-Care and Burnout Prevention
This training focuses on helping harm reduction professionals recognize and address the risks of burnout and compassion fatigue. It explores the unique stressors of working in high-pressure environments and the emotional toll of supporting vulnerable populations. Participants learn practical self-care strategies, such as mindfulness, boundary setting, and time management, as well as organizational strategies for creating supportive workplace cultures. Emphasis is placed on building resilience to ensure sustainable careers in harm reduction.
Peer Support Training
Peer support training is designed for individuals with lived experience who wish to help others navigate substance use and recovery. The training emphasizes the value of shared experiences and teaches skills in mentoring, active listening, and providing nonjudgmental support. Participants learn how to establish healthy boundaries, recognize when to refer clients to other services, and foster a sense of empowerment and self-efficacy in their peers. This training often includes role-playing exercises and strategies for addressing challenges.
Substance Use Education
Substance use education provides a comprehensive understanding of the various substances people may use, including their effects, risks, and harm reduction strategies. Participants learn to identify the signs of use and understand the social and psychological factors that influence substance use behaviors. The training covers harm reduction tips for each substance and equips participants to have open, informed conversations with clients about safer usage practices without promoting stigma or fear.
Advocacy and Policy Training
Advocacy training focuses on equipping participants to drive systemic change in support of harm reduction policies and practices. It covers the basics of policy development, the legislative process, and how to build coalitions for effective advocacy. Participants learn skills such as public speaking, storytelling, and lobbying, as well as strategies for engaging media and mobilizing community members. Real-world case studies of successful harm reduction policy changes are often included for inspiration.
Youth and Family Education
Youth and family education training provides tools to engage young people and their families in harm reduction conversations. It focuses on age-appropriate messaging, understanding the unique challenges faced by adolescents, and addressing family dynamics. Participants learn how to provide education on substance use risks, harm reduction strategies, and resources for support. The training also explores how to empower families to have open, nonjudgmental discussions and build stronger, supportive relationships.
