Community organizations came together under the name, Central Virginia Addiction and Recovery Resources, CVARR, in 2018. The story of substance use in Central Virginia and across the state, however, spans many decades. In 2016, Virginia’s Health Commissioner declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency in Virginia, and Central Virginia hasn’t been spared this burden. In response to the challenge substance use posed on Central Virginia, community leaders, stakeholders, and coalitions joined forces to brainstorm a collective response to the burden that was bigger than any one organization could hope to carry alone.
The need for a shared community voice and a united support force was great. But the resolve of our community was greater. It was at this time that the Central Virginia Opioid Epidemic Coalition, Ortho Virginia Opioid Workgroup and Community Coalition to Address Substance Use in Pregnancy came together with one voice to answer the call for a collaborative response to substance use prevention, treatment and recovery in Central Virginia. With passionate support and determination, our community leaders united under the shared mission and vision of Central Virginia Addiction and Recovery Resources. The result was a collective community-wide network of resources to prevent addiction, promote recovery, sustain healthy lifestyles and connect people to the services they need. Today we stand together, stronger than ever, to support Central Virginia citizens in their pursuit of a safe and healthier community for all.
Since our establishment in 2016, our progress as a coalition is unmatched. We have built a cross-sector alliance of community partners to address substance misuse and its effects seen in our homes, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces. Under one mission and vision, it is our shared goal to diligently serve the communities of Lynchburg City, Bedford, Appomattox, Amherst and Campbell by engaging and uniting our community in the reduction of substance use through action, education, and collaboration.
Vince Sawyer on his work with individuals with substance use disorder and the formation of CVARR.