The Concord University Social Work Department is partnering with “Inside Appalachia” and WV Public Broadcasting to host the Second Opioid Symposium entitled “Providing Hope” on Sept. 4-5, 2018 from 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. both days. The event will be held at University Point and the Jean and Jerry Beasley Student Center on Concord University’s Athens campus and is free and open to the public. Eleven social work Continuing Education credits are available.
The agenda for day 1 (Tuesday, Sept. 4) will consist of multiple concurrent workshops. These workshops will focus on various perspectives and issues surrounding the opioid crisis in southern West Virginia.
Day 2 of the event (Wednesday, Sept. 5) will feature a round table conversation moderated by “Inside Appalachia’s” Jessica Lilly. Panelists from across the region will discuss how the opioid epidemic is affecting the state’s children and families. During the town hall event, the audience will be provided with an opportunity to ask questions about the opioid crisis. This event is part of the Kids’ Health Roundtable Series with West Virginians for Affordable Health Care. The round table will take place in the Student Center from 9 a.m. – noon.
Following the round table, a screening of “Recovery Boys”, the newest documentary film from the Academy Award nominated producers of “Heroin(e)” will be held. WVPBS is co-sponsoring the film’s showing and the discussion following.
An employer/resource fair hosted by Concord University will run concurrently with the day’s activities. Area organizations will have information booths focused on providing material geared toward career opportunities, and the resources they provide to the community.
Continuing Education credits will be provided to social workers, however all professionals and individuals from agencies or organizations dealing with the opioid crisis, as well as students and members of the expanded community, can take part in various activities throughout the day.
Scott Inghram, Assistant Professor of Social Work, said, “We often find ourselves discussing the crisis as a hopeless phenomenon instead of focusing our existing strengths within ourselves, our families, and our communities. If we are to make lasting, meaningful change, it is integral that we start by nurturing the seeds of hope planted throughout southern West Virginia.” The event will give unique multiple perspectives, from all of those who are effected by and are actively dealing with this issue.
For more information, please contact Concord University Social Work Department by emailing socialwork@concord.edu, or by calling 304-384-6260.
