Foundational Fridays- Drug 101
This 2 -hour webinar is a part of our Foundational Fridays Series taking place every last Friday of the month from 12pm – 2pm EST, from July 2025 – June 2026.
This webinar will provide a foundational understanding of the substances commonly used by participants in Syringe Service Programs (SSPs), focusing on the patterns of use, reasons for use, and strategies for reducing associated harms. Participants will gain insight into the various ways in which drugs are used and explore the critical role of harm reduction in minimizing risks and promoting safer practices.
The session will offer practical guidance on how to engage program participants or clients in open, non-judgmental conversations about their drug use, recognizing the importance of understanding the unique circumstances and motivations behind substance use. With a focus on a harm reduction framework, participants will learn how to approach these discussions in a way that respects the individual’s autonomy and promotes safer practices.
By the end of this webinar, participants will be equipped to describe the types of drugs commonly used by individuals in SSPs, discuss the various factors influencing drug use, and identify three harm reduction strategies that can help reduce drug-related risks. Emphasis will be placed on fostering empathetic, informed dialogue to support individuals in making safer choices and accessing appropriate care.
Trainers: Mike Selick (He/Him) Director of Capacity Building and Community Mobilization, Jose Martinez (He,Him) Capacity Building & Hepatitis C Coordinator
Prerequisite: None, but viewing our Foundations of Harm Reduction is highly recommended
Audience: All health and human service providers, including Peers Workers
