Harford County Office of Drug Control Policy uses the Arts to Raise Awareness About Addiction

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2018

Heroin and opiate drug use and overdose deaths have reached epidemic rates nationally and locally. As overdoses continue to climb, agencies and stakeholders are racing to develop new resources and prevention methods, reduce stigma and deepen understanding about addiction. In addition, communities are hoping to invite new ideas and new voices, particularly youth, to the conversation. To further engage citizens the Harford County Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) and its partners added three cultural arts components to its prevention and treatment campaign: the play Addicted; an audio-visual public service announcement competition; and the HOPE Against Addiction Calendar and art competition. Together they have reached more than 170,000 citizens. Employing the arts has been an effective way to engage youth in the community, and provides new opportunities to discuss addiction without judgement. Further art evokes emotional change, creativity and deeper insight regarding this devastating brain disease. As a result of the initiative Harford County citizens have a stronger understanding of addiction, its contributing factors and consequences; are more engaged, and have increased awareness of Harford County’s programs and resources. Further, the initiative has strengthened partnerships among local and state agencies.