enCompass: A Comprehensive Training on Navigating Addiction is a resource for family members who are trying to navigate the complex world of addiction and help friends or loved ones achieve recovery. The training includes in-depth information about substance use disorders, treatment options, communication strategies, and self-care tips. This training was created by the Addiction Policy Forum.

This program is open to all adults who want to learn more about addiction and have the desire to help people navigate addiction. Attendees often include families, friends, caregivers, clergy, law enforcement, first responders, healthcare providers, employers, educators, community-based service providers, and anyone interested in learning how to respond to substance use/co-occurring disorders. Like CPR, the course is designed to build the skills to support and respond to someone who needs help. The training will also help participants navigate the resources available in your own community.

The Addiction Policy Forums preliminary evaluation results indicate that enCompass significantly increased participants addiction knowledge levels and confidence in their ability to engage someone struggling with a substance use disorder, and that it decreased stigma among participants, including stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination intent.

Learn more at: enCompass Program | Brunswick County, NC (brunswickcountync.gov)  and enCompass: a Comprehensive Training on Navigating Addiction (addictionpolicy.org)

Members of the Brunswick County Substance Use and Addiction Commission

Brunswick County Health Services

Christian Recovery Centers Inc

Coastal Horizons

In 2023, the program was regularly promoted and offered to the community. Two community-based organizations hosted the program: Christian Recovery Center Inc and Elah Baptist Church reaching a total of 53 people. Coastal Horizons partnered with the program and provided Naloxone and medication lock boxes to trainees. 

Additional performance measures of the program are being explored for "How Well" the program is doing and how are participants "Better Off"

Program managers are seeking and applying for funding to sustain and support new instructors of the program to expand the programs reach and capacity in the community. 

Responding to Addiction was offered at four of the five Brunswick Senior Resources Centers Inc.