Press Release

• Tweet

April 20, 2009

Health officials say an effective way to combat alcohol and drug abuse in Contra Costa County is to get involved with a group that tackles the issues head-on. April is National Alcohol Awareness Month and Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) is urging residents to take action by joining the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Advisory Board of Contra Costa County.

The AOD advisory board, which reports to CCHS and the county Board of Supervisors, assesses family and community needs regarding prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug abuse problems. Volunteers are being sought from each of the five county districts.

"Times of crisis are especially difficult for people suffering with substance abuse," said Fatima Matal-Sol, a program manager with CCHS' Alcohol and Other Drugs Services Division. "There has been a heightened sense of urgency in calls received lately. The advisory board empowers people who are concerned about the effects of alcohol and drugs on our community to take action."

The primary purpose of the board is to advise the Board of Supervisors and other county agencies on alcohol and drug issues and related solutions. Tasks may include site visits, conducting town hall meetings and various projects. Volunteers must be 16 years or older, live or work in Contra Costa County and should have a knowledge of, or an interest in addressing, alcohol and other drug issues in the community.

Members serve a two-year term and meet the fourth Wednesday of every month from 3:45 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Concord Police Department, 1350 Galindo Street, Concord.

To find out more about the advisory board or to download an application form, visit www.cchealth.org/groups/aod_board/ or call Fatima Matal-Sol at 925-313-6311.

# # #