FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 17, 2008

For more information contact:

Laura Koppel, Denver Human Services, (720) 944-2342 or Laura.Koppel@denvergov.org

Mayor’s Drug Strategy Commission Reaches First Milestone

Unveils Plan to Reduce Substance Abuse in Denver

Denver, Colo.— The Denver Drug Strategy Commission released today a plan that will reduce the causes and consequences of substance abuse in Denver over the next five years. The plan is a set of measurable goals, objectives and outcomes that will address prevention and gaps in services in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

The Commission, convened by Mayor John Hickenlooper in January 2007, has worked collaboratively with the community to identify specific areas of need and practical solutions regarding substance use and abuse in Denver.

“This community process is a continuation of the good work the Office of Drug Strategy has been doing for several years,” said Jamie Van Leeuwen, chair of the Denver Drug Strategy Commission. “The plan combines long-term thinking with the need for immediate practical results,” Van Leeuwen continued. “It puts forth both a strategic vision and a plan for improving service delivery and addressing infrastructure needs.”

The cost of substance abuse is significant, both in human and economic terms. With over one in 10 members of our community over the age of 12 reporting a substance abuse problem, it is estimated that substance abuse costs the City and County of Denver $600 million annually. It is also estimated that there are over 1,300 persons in Denver wanting treatment who are unable to obtain services due to a lack of capacity in the treatment system.

“Substance abuse degrades our community and increases the need for social services,” said Van Leeuwen. “The problem in Denver is real and requires a comprehensive solution.”

The Denver Drug Strategy Plan:

·         Includes six goals (treatment, prevention and intervention, coordinated integration of services, education, research and evaluation)

·         Represents the necessary first step in developing an accessible, inclusive, culturally competent and sustainable continuum of care for the alcohol and drug service system in Denver.

·         Depends on the support of neighboring communities in the Denver Metro area as well as support of donors and foundations to render technical and financial assistance and to facilitate implementation in a timely manner.

 “This plan it is not an exhaustive list of all we might do to tackle Denver's substance abuse problems but rather the critical next step for our city,” said Van Leeuwen.

For more information about the plan, or to request a full copy of the Strategic Plan, go to www.denvergov.org/drug_strategies or contact Karla Maraccini, Director, Office of Drug Strategy, at 720-944-2972.

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