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The Second Annual Justice and Substance Use Alabama Summit will be held at four locations across Alabama, providing accessible opportunities for participants to engage in a full-day education focused on the intersection of the justice system and substance use.
The Summit will bring together professionals, advocates, individuals with lived experience, and community stakeholders to explore innovative approaches, evidence-based practices, and collaborative strategies that promote recovery, reduce recidivism, and strengthen community outcomes.
Featured speakers will share both professional expertise and personal experiences within the justice system, as well as insights from substance use treatment and recovery support services.
Attendees can expect engaging presentations, meaningful discussions, and practical tools applicable across justice, treatment, and community settings. The Summit aims to foster cross-system collaboration, elevate voices of lived experience, and advance a shared understanding of how justice-involved individuals can be supported on pathways to recovery and stability.
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Event Description
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Statement of Need – The growing prevalence of substance use disorders among incarcerated individuals highlights a critical need for education and enhanced understanding among professionals working within the justice system. Many individuals in this system struggle with serious mental illness, substance use disorders, or co-occurring disorders yet face significant barriers, including a lack of resources and inadequate coordination with care providers upon release. As noted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, these challenges prevent access to essential SUD treatment and continuity of care, ultimately resulting in a high rate of recidivism. Most individuals return to their communities without the necessary treatment, which often leads to a relapse into substance use and further encounters with law enforcement. Therefore, there is a need for initiatives like the upcoming summit, which will provide valuable insights into the work of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, Community Corrections, and Peer Support Specialists. By addressing these issues, we can work towards reducing stigma and improving outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders within the justice system.
Learning Objectives – After attending this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the role and value of cross-sector collaboration between justice agencies, public health organizations, and social services in addressing substance use and justice involvement.
- Analyze how integrated services, such as PEERs and behavioral health professionals, contribute to long-term recovery and a reduction in recidivism.
- Explain the components of trauma-informed Crisis Intervention Training and demonstrate how it can be integrated into justice system practices.
- Evaluate current diversion and substance use treatment programs within the justice system, identifying strengths and areas for improvement.
- Assess the impact of stigma on individuals with substance use disorders in the justice system and propose strategies to reduce its effects.
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Continuing Education
NBCC – The Office of Teaching Innovation and Digital Education at The University of Alabama has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider. This program is approved for 5.50 credits. ACEP No. 7285. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. The University of Alabama is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
ASBSWE – The University of Alabama is an approved provider of continuing education by the Alabama State Board of Social Work Examiners (Provider #0290). This training offers social workers 5.50 contact hours.
APOST – Alabama Peace Officers Standards & Training Commission credits, if approved by your agency head. This training offers 5.50 APOST credits.
CLE – This training has been approved by the Alabama State Bar for 5.50 credits of continuing legal education.
CRSS – This training has been approved for 5.50 continuing education credit hours for Certified Recovery Support Specialists.