Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP)

Our Purpose

The Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP) program supports individuals and families affected by opioid use by providing overdose follow-up, education on prevention and treatment, and pathways to recovery. Through a peer-led, trauma-informed approach, OEP connects people to treatment, distributes naloxone to prevent future overdoses, and helps break cycles of addiction by addressing both immediate needs and long-term stability.

The program partners with Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), ACS Behavioral Health Responders, and local organizations to reach individuals at critical moments—often right after an overdose—when they may be most open to support. Whether offering a ride to treatment, checking in during early recovery, or providing resources to families, OEP ensures that no one has to navigate addiction alone.

Our Approach

OEP’s peer-led, trauma-informed model meets people where they are—after an overdose, during a crisis, or when they’re ready for change—to offer nonjudgmental support, harm reduction resources, and pathways to recovery.

Reaching People When It Matters Most

The Golden Opportunity model, in partnership with Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), is OEP’s primary intervention point. After an AFR-administered Narcan reversal, OEP receives a direct referral and reaches out as soon as possible to offer support and services.

In addition to AFR referrals, individuals can connect with OEP through:

• ACS Behavioral Health Responders who encounter people struggling with addiction.
• Walk-ins at ACS Headquarters, where individuals can request help at any stage of their recovery journey.

Once connected, OEP Care Coordinators walk with individuals every step of the way, from harm reduction to long-term stability.

A Person-Centered Pathway to Stability

Intervening at the Right Time

• OEP engages individuals immediately after an overdose, offering support when they may be most open to change.
• The team builds trust through shared experiences, guiding individuals toward treatment and recovery services.

Providing Immediate Support

• OEP connects individuals to detox, rehabilitation, and recovery services, providing direct transport to treatment when they’re ready.
• Care Coordinators help individuals navigate intake processes and check on them throughout detox, reinforcing their recovery journey.

Building Stability

• The team helps secure essential needs, including IDs, social security benefits, job assistance, and financial stability resources.
• OEP connects individuals to transitional living and sober housing to ensure they live in a supportive environment. 
• Care Coordinators link individuals to Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and other peer-led support groups, helping them build lasting recovery networks.

Sustaining Recovery

• The team maintains regular check-ins, ensuring continued support and access to services.
• As peer mentors, Care Coordinators walk alongside individuals, reinforcing that no one is alone in their journey to recovery.

Empowering the Community Through Prevention

Expanding Access to Naloxone

• OEP distributes overdose reversal kits to businesses, families, and community members, equipping them with lifesaving tools.

Training the Public

• Care Coordinators educate businesses, families, and community members on overdose prevention, treatment options, and how to recognize signs of crisis.

Strengthening Support Networks

• The team works with families and loved ones to equip them with the tools and knowledge to support individuals in recovery.

Breaking the Stigma

• OEP raises awareness about addiction as a public health issue and promotes compassionate, community-based solutions.

Get Support or Partner With OEP

OEP is here to support individuals, families, and organizations working to prevent overdoses and promote recovery.

• Need help? If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use, OEP can connect you to treatment, support services, and recovery resources.
• Want to collaborate? OEP partners with businesses, service providers, and community groups to expand naloxone access, provide overdose prevention training, and educate the community on substance use and recovery.

Email us at: [email protected]