The Prevention Council of Erie County, a small non-profit with a LARGE reach, celebrated 75 years of service in 2023. The Council is dedicated to promoting healthy behaviors through substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention across the life span for individuals and families throughout Erie County.
Preventing negative use of substances as an escape or unhealthy choice by the caregiver can also serve as a positive outcome for our entire community when a caregiver is grasping for alternative ways to cope in the moment. Research shows that regular mindfulness practices; even for brief moments during the day; can decrease reactivity, increase responsiveness, lower stress hormone levels, increase a feeling of self-regulation and add to personal wellness.
The Council’s ongoing programming will contribute to supporting a caregiver through mindful awareness skill-building, enhancing their own wellness through education and positive alternatives to substance abuse, and increased ability to care for another through accessing and strengthening inner resources and wisdoms.
Some specific, current programs are offered within the Supporting the Mindful Caregiver Project (sponsored by the Ralph Wilson Jr. Legacy Fund) and will be delivered throughout the community, at different locations and times through May 2025.
These programs often have a hybrid component, where participants can join virtually if in-person participation is not possible. The Community Connector, an electronic community resource and referral system, will be used to make additional referrals as needed. Go to our website at: www.thepreventioncouncilec.org for more information about our current programs.