Serving Cabarrus, Davidson, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly, and Union Counties | | |
Fostering strong, safer communities by addressing the challenges of substance
dependency and building resilience among individuals, youth, and families
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The Prevention Pulse
Stories and impact at the heart of growth and transformation
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- At a Glance
- GPCR program updates
- QCHR service updates
- Meet our newest board members
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- Upcoming events
- Call to action
- Get involved
| | Unidos Together is learning how to use podcast equipment. Stay tuned for upcoming podcasts | | Over the past couple of weeks, Center for Prevention Services has been moving at full speed, strengthening connections and expanding support for youth and families, from prevention programs and community outreach to youth creativity and greater access to testing and care. Through partnerships with schools, community organizations, and supportive housing communities, our teams are helping people build confidence, strengthen relationships, and connect with resources where they live and learn. In this issue, celebrate our Digital Impact graduates, explore the latest from GPCR and QCHR, meet our newest board members, and discover upcoming events and opportunities to get involved. | | Program Updates: Prevention & Resilience Initiatives | | The Alianza Coalition sharing resources at the family Multilingual Night at Lawrence Orr Elem. School | | |
Primary Prevention
Our prevention programs are moving along continuing to help youth and families build confidence, strengthen relationships, and make healthier choices across Mecklenburg, Rowan, and Cabarrus counties. Strong African American Families (SAAF) sessions are moving along being hosted at our office. Families are able to preregister now for the next SAAF group beginning in January, and we’re exploring partnerships to expand the program in Rowan County. The GPCR team also participated in a community mental health simulation and shared safe medication and alcohol storage tips with more than 25 families at Spencer’s National Night Out event in Rowan County.
Community Outreach
GPCR joined Safe Kids of Cabarrus County for a pop-up Car Seat Check at the Cabarrus Dream Center, held alongside its Corner Field Market food pantry. Together with Cabarrus Health Alliance, Cabarrus Partnership for Children, and GEMS, we shared resources with families accessing food assistance. We also participated in the Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Schools Provider Fair at the Dream Center, connecting with school counselors and social workers to share information about our youth and family programs and strengthen connections between schools and local support services.
Spanish Programs
This September, Unidos Together youth leaders got to explore robotics, hands-on STEM activities, and future career opportunities at Queen City Robotics Alliance’s Robot Block Party.We also celebrated our Digital Impact youth and parent graduates at St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, recognizing youth accomplishments and parents’ participation in NAMI’s De Familia a Familia curriculum. The celebration continues, and you’re invited! Join us October 14, from 6–8 PM at Mint Museum Randolph, for a community celebration and photo gallery showcasing our Digital Impact cohort’s work. Learn more here.
| | Service Updates: Harm Reduction Initiatives | |
Key Successes
- 213 infectious disease tests administered; 11 new positive cases identified
- 31,600 sterile syringes distributed
- 369 naloxone kits (792 doses)distributed, resulting in 27 reported overdose reversals
- 8,950 Biohazard disposal containers
- 200 Wound care kits distributed
- 195 Safer sex supply kits distributed
- 427 People reached
| | | A welcoming space at the Health Hub where QCHR participants can relax, connect, and regroup | |
Expanding Access to Testing
Building our monthly testing at Moore Place, our team has expanded services to The Rise on Clanton, another Permanent Supportive Housing community through Roof Above. Through our longstanding partnership with Amara Wellness and Moore Place, a case manager identified a need for testing at The Rise. During our first month, we tested 30+ residents and identified several positive hepatitis C results, which is higher than what we typically see at an average testing site. The Rise also has an on-site nurse who can connect residents to hepatitis C care, allowing people to receive follow-up support right where they live. By bringing testing into supportive housing communities, we’re helping reduce barriers and making it easier for people to get connected to care.
| | Meet Our Newest Board Members | Please join us in welcoming CPS’s newest board members! We look forward to working alongside them to support our mission and make a meaningful difference in the communities we serve. Get to know them below! | |
Abigail Lord-Ramsey, MA
Hello, my name is Abigail Lord-Ramsey. I am a Utilization Management Specialist at Anuvia Prevention and Recovery Center, where I build community partnerships that help connect people with the mental health and recovery services they need. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and my beloved fur baby, Piper.
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Hunter Rider, MPH, CHES®
Hello, I'm Hunter Rider, I’m a Substance Use Educator, working with students and families to strengthen school prevention programs and help students make healthier choices around substance use. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my dog, husband, and friends, reading, watching sports, and traveling.
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Keaton West, MHA, BSN, RN
Hi, I'm Keaton West, I’m the Chief Clinical Officer at Post Acute Analytics and a registered nurse with experience in clinical care, healthcare strategy, and technology. I’m passionate about supporting underserved communities. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, hiking, spending time with friends and family, and caring for my two cats, Henry and Jax, who run the household.
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Lance Woods, LCAS, LADC, ICGC-I, CSI
Hello, my name is Lance Woods, I’m a licensed therapist, practice owner, and International Certified Gambling Counselor specializing in substance use disorders and gambling addiction. I help individuals and families build healthier coping skills and find meaningful paths to recovery. Outside of work, I enjoy ultrarunning, spending time with my family, and creating educational content, including an upcoming book.
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Tyisha Terry, EdD, MSPH
Hi, my name is Tyisha Terry, I am a Lecturer in Public Health at UNC Charlotte, where I enjoy teaching, mentoring, and supporting students as they grow personally and professionally. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, cooking, singing, and spending time in nature. I am excited to serve on the board and learn more about the organization and the community it serves.
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Digtial Impact Photo Gallery
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Our Digital Impact Program will showcase their final projects at the Mint Museum in Uptown Charlotte on October 14 from 6:00–8:00 PM. Come see youth share their perspectives, build confidence, and spark conversations that inspire positive change through photography. Interested in joining? Register here for the next Digital Impact cohort.
Stanley County Takeback Event
- Join us and Safe Kids of Stanley County for a medication takeback on October 22, 1:30–3:30 PM, outside Stanley Community Commons. Bring unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications for safe disposal. No sharps!
| Click below to view a complete list of our upcoming programs, events, and activities: | Center for Prevention Services relies on community support and individual donations to successfully fulfill its mission. Your generous contribution will directly impact the lives of the people we serve. A git of any amount is greatly appreciated. | Whether you're interested in evidence-based programs for youth and families, professional development opportunities, or serving as a community ambassador, there are many ways to connect and make an impact. | | © 2026 Center for Prevention Services.
All rights reserved. | | | | |
