“How badly do you want to fix this problem? You have to have a boldness and a conviction the likes of which you have never had before.” --Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin, National Rx Drug Abuse & Heroin Summit
In 2017, the Institute had an unprecedented and wide-ranging impact on addiction and mental healthcare professionals and the patients and families they serve. Its largest area of emphasis helped the field identify meaningful, implementable solutions to problems arising from the nation’s staggering opioid epidemic.
The Institute’s education and outreach:


Helped treatment professionals incorporate research-based interventions into their practices.
Equipped local leaders to mobilize communities to curb the epidemic.
Reminded stakeholders never to leave behind the most vulnerable group affected by the crisis: our nation’s youth.
Institute events and media engaged more than 200,000 professionals on the front lines of combating the most pressing behavioral health problems affecting families’ and communities’ well-being. More than 7,000 individuals in 2017 attended Institute in-person events in 26 cities in 21 states. They heard from top clinical and research experts, leaders in behavioral healthcare administration, and elected and appointed officials who shape local, state and national policy, including seven current or former members of Congress.
At a Glance: The Institute’s 2017 Impact...
190,000+ professionals engaged through Institute events and media
7,000 attendees of Institute in-person events
225 youths supported by the Institute and grants at Camp UNITE
128 continuing education credits made available
70 partnership agreements formed with associations and allied groups across the country
26 cities with an in-person Institute event
21 states with an in-person Institute event
7 current and former members of Congress who addressed Institute attendees
3 prestigious awards for excellence in journalism received by Institute editors
Ongoing community support through complimentary lectures, newsletters, panel discussions, and a dedicated micro-grant program.