ATLANTA, GA – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) and Governor Nathan Deal (R-GA) joined several state and national leaders at the Georgia Capitol on Thursday, January 23, to announce that the 2014 National Rx Drug Abuse Summit will be hosted in Atlanta, Georgia.

This Summit is the largest national collaboration of professionals on the prescription drug abuse issue and will be held April 22-24, 2014, at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis.

“Prescription drug abuse is a growing issue in the nation and in Georgia. Since I took office, I have worked with the General Assembly to combat this issue through several measures, including the passage of the Georgia Pain Management Clinic Act last year,” said Gov. Nathan Deal. “We have made progress, but there is still much to be done. We as a state look forward to hosting the Summit and bringing together experts to discuss new ways to combat abuse.”

Someone dies every 16 minutes from a prescription drug overdose, making it the leading cause of accidental deaths in the United States.

“After Florida passed legislation in 2011 cracking down on pill mills, drug dealers moved up Interstate 75 and opened up shop in Georgia. It was imperative that we put a law in place to address the onslaught,” said Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens. “Last year, I was proud to work with the Governor and the General Assembly on legislation to protect our communities and put these bad actors out of business.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has categorized the high rate of prescription drug abuse deaths as a national epidemic.

“Like Kentucky, Georgia has been heavily impacted by pill mills and drug dealers and drug seekers along I-75 and across state lines. We have to work together to help save lives and curb this tide of abuse that plagues our nation,” said Congressman Hal Rogers, co-founder of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Prescription Drug Abuse Caucus. “The Summit takes a holistic approach to the drug abuse epidemic, bringing together legislators, law enforcement, medical professionals, advocates, educators and many other leaders to focus on real solutions.”

Congressman Rogers announced Matthew Perry – an American-Canadian actor/director/producer acclaimed for his role as Chandler Bing on the most successful television shows of all time, Friends – along with his friend, addictions and recovery expert Earl Hightower – will serve as two of the keynote presenters this year. Perry is returning to TV this fall as Oscar Madison on a modern remake of “The Odd Couple” for CBS.

Perry, 44, who is in long-term recovery from prescription drug addiction, is a tireless advocate for Drug Courts and other interventions for those in need of substance abuse treatment. Perry and Hightower were recently honored with the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy’s “Champion of Recovery” award for their work to help addicts.

No one understands the prescription drug abuse epidemic as intimately as those families who have lost a loved one to the overwhelming clutch of addiction. Gainesville resident, Dallas Gay lost his 21-year-old grandson to a prescription drug overdose. Now, he’s the Co-Chairman of the Medical Association of Georgia Foundation’s “Think About It” campaign.

“I’m here to help the other Jefferies who are out there who could follow his same fate,” said Mr. Gay. “We’re losing too many young people to these deadly cocktails of prescription drugs and alcohol. This is a problem that our society has created, but it doesn’t have to be this way. Working together, we will make a difference.”

The CDC has been an active partner and supporter of the Summit for the last two years. The federal agency’s Director, Dr. Thomas R. Frieden will also be a keynote speaker at the 2014 event.

“CDC arms states with the resources, information and expertise to respond quickly and effectively and reverse this epidemic,” said Dr. Frieden. “We do this by equipping states including Kentucky and Georgia with the data, evidence and programs they need to maximize every resource.”

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) – a regional economic development agency comprising all or parts of 13 states, including north Georgia – has served as the Summit’s Education Partner since inception.

“At ARC we understand all too well the devastating impact substance abuse is having on Appalachia’s population and work force,” said Earl Gohl, Federal Co-Chair of the ARC. “It tears families apart, drains community resources, and holds back economic development. That is why we are a strong supporter of this Summit’s goal of educating people about drug abuse and preventing it in the first place. Appalachia’s most important resource is its people, and we need to do everything we can to empower them in their fight against this menace to their communities.”

Sponsors have made it possible for the Southeastern Kentucky-based non-profit organization Operation UNITE (Unlawful Narcotics Investigations, Treatment and Education) to bring its grassroots efforts into the national spotlight.

“Because of this partnership, the Summit is able to offer participants up to 17 Continuing Education Credits across most disciplines,” said Dan Smoot, UNITE President/CEO. “The ARC is a perfect fit as prescription drug abuse is a contributing factor to poverty, workforce development and thriving communities.”

Highlights of the 2014 Summit include breakout sessions in seven Educational Tracks – Clinical, Education & Advocacy, Pharmacy, Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs), Third-Party Payer, Treatment, and Law Enforcement – tailored to provide stakeholders timely and relevant information. In addition, the summit will include a Gubernatorial Panel featuring leaders of successful prescription drug abuse prevention initiatives, a panel discussion featuring members of the U.S. House of Representatives, and Vision Sessions providing an in-depth examination of innovative programs and strategies designed to educate, mitigate and resolve issues related to prescription drug abuse.

BARBOURVILLE – Operation UNITE was honored by Union College for its “civic responsibility” to the citizens of southern and eastern Kentucky – and the nation as a whole – during its Spring Convocation ceremony on Thursday, January 23. Union College President Dr. Marcia Hawkins presented the award. Accepting the award on behalf of UNITE was Dale Morton, communications director.

Text of award:
“Union College hereby honors and celebrates Operation UNITE in recognition of more than a decade of service to the citizens of southern and eastern Kentucky who are affected by the region’s sweeping prescription drug epidemic of its ability to harness the energy of our youth to promote awareness of substance abuse; of its tireless commitment to empower citizens through education, treatment and law enforcement initiatives; of its dedication to unite people throughout the nation in the quest for solutions that benefit society as a whole; and for demonstrating the highest level of civic responsibility, an essential facet of the Union College liberal education.”

Nearly 1 ton of outdated or unwanted medication was collected from 42 medication dropbox locations across southern and eastern Kentucky during the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s eighth National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day this past weekend.

The 1,933.2 pounds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs filled 114 cartons.

This total does not include any medications brought to other one-time drop-off sites, such as the region’s seven Kentucky State Police posts, during the four-hour event.

“Having a safe way to dispose of these pills is a proven method reducing the potential for their abuse and misuse,” said Dan Smoot, president/CEO of Operation UNITE, which maintains the boxes in 34 counties. “We are pleased with the response from citizens, and encourage everyone to spread the word about this free service.”

Kentucky had the third highest rate of overdose deaths in 2010 (23.6 per 100,000 people), noted Michael Botticelli, acting director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), speaking to participants at last week’s National Rx Drug Abuse Summit in Atlanta. Ensuring the proper disposal of medication is one of the top four focus areas of the current administration.

Dr. Tom Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), told Summit participants that 125,000 lives have been lost to drugs in the U.S. over the past decade.

Every day in the United States 50 people die from an overdose of prescription drugs, according to an October 2013 report, Prescription Drug Abuse: Strategies to Stop the Epidemic, published by the Trust For America’s Health. Kentucky lost 1,031 lives in 2012 due to drug overdoses.

“There are kids losing parents. Parents are losing kids,” Frieden said. “If we took one minute of silence for each of these lives it would take 3 months.”

These deaths follow a corresponding and dramatic increase in number of prescriptions being written for opioid medications. Enough pills were prescribed in 2012 to give every American 18 years of age or older 75 opioid pills, according to the IMS Health’s National Prescription Audit.

“This means there are a lot of medications just sitting around your home,” Smoot said, adding a Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMSHA) survey found that more than 70 percent of people abusing prescription pain relievers got them through friends or relatives, a statistic that includes raiding the family medicine cabinet.

Another benefit of the drop-box program is protecting the environment.

For years, the generally accepted method for disposing of old or left over medications was to flush them down the toilet. This practice, however, has been strongly discouraged because of concerns about potential health and environmental effects of antibiotics, hormones, painkillers, depressants and stimulants making their way into our water system and soil.

Operation UNITE has helped establish the permanent medication dropbox sites starting in October 2012. With this weekend’s collection, UNITE has now collected 6,547.9 pounds of medications.

Residents are asked to please remove all identifying labels from prescription bottles before bringing them to the drop-off sites.

• For a list of permanent drop box locations in the UNITE service region visit http://operationunite.org/investigations/med-drop-box-sites/.

• For a list of permanent drop box locations statewide visit the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy website at http://odcp.ky.gov/Kentucky+Prescription+Drug+Disposal+Sites.htm.

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which began in October 2010, aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposal, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of these medications.

While totals from this past weekend were not yet available, more than 3.4 million pounds (1,733 tons) of pills were removed from circulation in the first seven DEA Take-Back Days.

HAZARD, KY – U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) joined Operation UNITE at the Perry County Public Library in Hazard, Kentucky, on March 28, 2014, to commend Kentucky River Properties, LLC for donating $100,000 to help pay for substance abuse treatment vouchers for low-income individuals living in Perry, Knott, Leslie and Letcher Counties who otherwise couldn’t afford treatment. The funding also supports local Drug Court programs.

View photos from presentation

“Our friends at Kentucky River Properties decided to pioneer a bold new avenue to change the lives of their co-workers, employees, families, friends and neighbors,” said Rogers. “Today, five people will be taken off of treatment facility waiting waiting lists and five families will begin to transform. By the end of the year, some 20 people could be completing a recovery program, thanks to this donation.”

The gift is the fifth donation of the half million dollars pledged to the UNITE Foundation by Kentucky River Properties five years ago.

“We are pleased to offer this donation to continue the great work of UNITE and help change the lives of people in our region,” said Fred Parker, President of Kentucky River Properties, LLC.

“At UNITE, we are encouraged through partnerships with companies like Kentucky River Properties, who not only talk about the need for change, but take incredible action to give hope to the people of this region,” said Dan Smoot, President of Operation UNITE.

A graduate of the Leslie County Drug Court Program, Gary Douglas now works for the program, helping others on the road to recovery who will benefit from the donation.

“I have a real appreciation for what UNITE and the Drug Courts have done in Kentucky, because I know what it’s like to live in that misery and how hard it is to get out of it,” said Douglas. “Without those programs, I would likely not even be here to talk to you today.”

Representing the Administrative Office of the Courts, Connie Payne, who also serves on the Operation UNITE Board of Directors said the funding offers unique support that Drug Court programs in other parts of the state are unable to provide.

“We couldn’t put clothes on their backs or help them get the school supplies they need without this support,” said Payne. “You have helped us remove many barriers for people in our programs.”

Rogers also honored the Chief Circuit Judge for Perry County, the Honorable Bill Engle who started the Perry County Adult Drug Court Program in 2005. Since then, some 60 graduates have successfully completed the program in Perry County. Engle recently announced his retirement and Rogers presented him with a Congressional Tribute that has been recorded in the U.S. Congressional Record to commemorate the impact he has made in the Kentucky River area.

“Judge Bill Engle has been a champion for Drug Courts and curbing this horrible tide of prescription drug abuse plaguing our region,” said Rogers. “He has undoubtedly transformed the lives of thousands of people in eastern Kentucky.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The UNITE Service Corps has received funding for 44 AmeriCorps members for the 2014-15 school year, U.S. Rep. Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced Monday, May 5.

UNITE will receive $543,400 for 44 AmeriCorps members in Bell, Breathitt, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Leslie, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle and Wolfe counties.

UNITE was among three non-profit organizations in Kentucky’s Fifth Congressional District that will receive $959,000 in AmeriCorps funding from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS).

These grants will put 120 AmeriCorps members on the ground to serve students in southern and eastern Kentucky schools. AmeriCorps members will tackle some of the toughest problems in the region, including low test scores in reading and math, as well as obesity and drug abuse.

“AmeriCorps members are an indispensable resource for nonprofits, communities, and the individuals they serve,” said Congressman Rogers. “AmeriCorps members have helped our eastern Kentucky students improve test scores, make healthier choices about food and exercise, and they have mentored thousands of students from broken homes. I congratulate UNITE, Morehead State University and Kentucky’s Teach for America Program for receiving this competitive grant, and thank all those who have answered the call to service by joining AmeriCorps.”

The other two programs receiving funds were:

• MSU Corps (Morehead State University) will receive $379,050 for 30 AmeriCorps members throughout the MSU service region, including Boyd, Lawrence, Morgan and Rowan Counties in Kentucky’s Fifth Congressional District.

• Kentucky’s Teach for America will receive $36,800 for 46 AmeriCorps members in Bell, Breathitt, Floyd, Knox, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, McCreary, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle and Whitley Counties.

“AmeriCorps members make a powerful impact on the toughest challenges facing our nation,” said CNCS CEO Wendy Spencer. “Building on Kentucky’s strong tradition of neighbor helping neighbor, AmeriCorps members will improve lives and strengthen communities across the Commonwealth. While they serve others, AmeriCorps members will also expand opportunity for themselves – gaining skills and experience to jumpstart their careers. As we mark the 20th anniversary of AmeriCorps, we salute AmeriCorps members for their dedication, and thank our outstanding partners who make their service possible.”

The current year’s AmeriCorps grant cycle was highly competitive, due to the strong demand by organizations seeking AmeriCorps resources. The 2014 competition prioritized investments in economic opportunity, education, veterans and military families, disaster services, and continued a new initiative for governors and mayors.

CNCS will provide an additional $667,000 in Segal AmeriCorps Education Awards for the AmeriCorps members funded by these grants. After completing a full term of service, AmeriCorps members receive an award of $5,645 that they can use to pay for college or to pay off student loans.

AmeriCorps engages more than 75,000 members in intensive service annually to serve through nonprofit, faith-based, and community organizations at 25,000 locations across the country. These members help communities tackle pressing problems while mobilizing millions of volunteers for the organizations they serve.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the AmeriCorps program. Since 1994, more than 830,000 Americans have provided more than one billion hours of service addressing critical challenges from poverty and hunger to disasters and the dropout crisis.

AmeriCorps is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency that engages more than five million Americans in service through AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, the Social Innovation Fund, and the Volunteer Generation Fund, and leads the President’s national call to service initiative, United We Serve. For more information, visit NationalService.gov.

The second week of September 2014 was the 20th anniversary of the AmeriCorps program. The UNITE Service Corps, along with other AmeriCorps groups in Kentucky, attended the 20th Anniversary Conference hosted by the Kentucky Commission of Community and Volunteer Service (KCCVS). The conference was held September 10-12 at the Galt House in Louisville.

The USC team was instrumental in arranging for three of the nearly 20 workshops available: “Life With a Record,” Carl Varney presenter; “On the Move,” Nancy Hale and Eugene Newsome presenters; and “Kentucky Educational Core Content,” Kelli Thompson, coordinator, Appalachian Renaissance Program and Marionette Little, Safe and Drug Free Schools Coordinator for Pike County schools.

For the 2014-15 school year, USC has 44 members from 12 school distsricts: Bell, Breathitt, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Leslie, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Wolfe and East Bernstadt Independent. All but three of these members were able to attend the conference and a pre-conference orientation and training on UNITE’s programs.

Residents across southern and eastern Kentucky brought 1,656.3 pounds of pills to drop box sites as part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s 9th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.

“Operation UNITE collected unwanted or outdated drugs from each of the 42 drop box locations in our service region,” noted Dan Smoot, president of the anti-drug organization. “Combined with the take-back day held in the spring, we have been able to properly dispose of nearly 2 tons of drugs.”

“This is only a fraction of the drugs that need to be taken out of the home,” Smoot continued. “Our drop-off locations are available year-round, so we encourage citizens to bring their prescription and over-the-counter medications in to reduce the potential for their abuse and misuse.”

UNITE, the Kentucky State Police and others joined with the DEA for the take-back program. Results from other locations across Kentucky and the nation were not available as of Monday morning.

Proper disposal of medications is important to discourage theft or experimentation. More than two-thirds of people abusing prescription pain relievers get them through friends or relatives homes, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration.

Increasing availability of drugs has also sparked a rise in the number of overdose deaths, according to the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Kentucky currently has the third highest rate of overdose deaths in the nation.

Another reason for properly disposing of medications is to keep them from making their way into the water system and soil.

Citizens taking medications to a drop box are asked to remove all identifying labels from the container. Liquid products, illicit substances, and anything with a needle are not accepted.

Since October 2012, Operation UNITE has collected more than 4 tons of drugs (8,204.2 pounds) through its Drop Box program.

It’s all about service – to youth, to schools, and to communities across southern and eastern Kentucky.

Operation UNITE’s Service Corps (AmeriCorps) initiative provides before and after school math tutoring and healthy choices programs to address drug prevention and nutritional education. Members also serve as sponsors for anti-drug UNITE Clubs and recruit volunteers for school-based prevention programs and community service projects.

Recently released statistics indicate the UNITE Service Corps (USC) had a very positive impact during the 2013-14 school year:

• 2,151 students were tutored in mathematics. Math test scores for these students increased 34% during the year.
• 2,336 students were taught the “Too Good For Drugs” and “Healthy Futures/Take 10!” curricula. Test scores for these students showed a 40% increase drug education knowledge and healthy decision-making information.
• 3,266 students were provided one-on-one mentoring assistance.
• 2,097 volunteers were recruited for school-related activities. They contributed 12,363 volunteer service hours.
• All UNITE Service Corps members were state certified in disaster and emergency response from the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management. This certification enables members to become leaders on local disaster response teams when the need arises.

“UNITE’s Service Corps initiative has been a catalyst for addressing the needs of our fourth- and fifth-grade youth – in one of the poorest Congressional Districts in the United States – for seven years,” said Eugene Newsome, director of the program. “I am so proud of the dedication and effort shown by our AmeriCorps members. They have been a proactive force for positive change not only in their schools, but in the communities they serve.”

For the 2014-15 school year, the UNITE Service Corps has placed 44 AmeriCorps members at schools in Bell, Breathitt, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Leslie, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle and Wolfe counties, as well as the East Bernstadt Independent school system.

To view list of UNITE Service Corps members and the schools they serve click here.

AmeriCorps is a national service program administered by the Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS), part of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and the federal Corporation for National and Community Service. The UNITE Service Corps is one of 14 programs funded statewide.

In September, USC members attended the 20th Anniversary AmeriCorps Conference in Louisville, showcasing initiatives such as UNITE’s “On The Move!” drug prevention initiative, “Hope Wall” for those overcoming addiction, and a new, teen-focused education campaign detailing “Life With a Record.”

“Substance abuse is impacting our children at very early ages,” noted Nancy Hale, co-program director for the UNITE Service Corps. “It is so important for us to equip students with knowledge that they are in charge of their own choices, to help them make the proper choices, and to lay a foundation of hope and promise for their futures.”

AmeriCorps engages more than 80,000 Americans in intensive service each year at nonprofits, schools, public agencies and community- and faith-based groups across the country.

Since the program’s founding in 1994, more than 800,000 AmeriCorps members have contributed more than 1 billion hours in service across America while tackling pressing problems and mobilizing millions of volunteers for the organizations they serve.

AmeriCorps programs do more than move communities forward. They serve their members by creating jobs and providing pathways to opportunity for young people entering the workforce. AmeriCorps places thousands of young adults into intensive service positions where they learn valuable work skills, earn money for education and develop an appreciation for citizenship.

MT. VERNON – A new drug prevention initiative designed to provide youth another way to resist peer pressure to experiment with drugs was launched in Rockcastle County Tuesday, October 14.

The “Give Me A Reason” program – a collaborative effort by the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) and Operation UNITE – will provide free saliva-based drug test kits to parents through distribution sites located throughout the county.

“It’s a voluntary program to help you make positive choices,” Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers told students and community members attending the ceremony. “We want to give you every possible means to help you succeed in life, and staying away from drugs is at the top of the list.”

“With this new drug testing program we want you to know that your parents care, and there are people in your community who will hold you accountable,” Rogers continued. “Most importantly, if you have a problem, we want to use this as a way to help you – not punish you – and give your parents resources to help.”

“Give Me A Reason” was envisioned by Frank Rapier, executive director of AHIDTA.

Rapier, a 49-year law enforcement veteran, stressed that the purpose of the prevention initiative is to keep youth from experimenting with drugs and to get help for those already involved.

“If parents have a drug test kit at home their children hopefully will think twice before giving in to peer pressure to try drugs,” Rapier said. “The possibility of being drug tested gives youth a reason to say ‘no’ when placed in these situations.”

Drug test kits are currently available from 13 sites in Rockcastle County. A list of locations is available on the Operation UNITE website.

Plans are to expand the pilot program to Pike County starting in November, with the ultimate goal of having kits available in all UNITE and AHIDTA counties in Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee and Virginia.

A benefit of the saliva-based test kit is that it can be administered within the privacy of your own home, with results remaining completely confidential if parents so choose. The non-invasive test can be produce results within about 10 minutes.

“If there is a positive result, we are providing resources for parents to turn to for help,” said Dan Smoot, president/CEO of Operation UNITE.

“It’s not about trust, but about showing how much you care,” Smoot said. “Your kids, on a daily basis, make hundreds of decisions. There is no more important decision you can make than to remain drug-free.”

“It doesn’t take very many bad decisions before you are in a terrible situation yourself,” agreed John Hale, chairman of the Rockcastle County UNITE Coalition and former principal at Rockcastle High School. “This is a problem that will strike anyone, anywhere, anytime.”

“We want to give you another reason to be able to say ‘no’ when someone offers you something you know you shouldn’t take or wants you to do something you know you shouldn’t do,” Hale added. “No one here is out to get you. We’re out to help you anyway we can.”

“Too many families have experienced the pain and sorrow caused by drug abuse. It’s very personal to me and I want you to see that,” Hale said, noting he just lost a niece within the last week to drugs and struggled (successfully) through a years-long battle with his son’s addiction.

“Remember,” Hale concluded, “You didn’t cause it – it was here long before you came along. You can’t cure it – it takes many people working together to cure the problem. And, you can take care of yourself by staying drug free.”

Teams from nine schools competed in the “2 Smart 4 Drugs” Academic Tournament held October 11 at Big Sandy Community and Technical College. A total of 214 students and 18 coaches participated.

Big Sandy’s Academic team as well as UNITE provided breakfast (sausage biscuits, fruit, donuts, etc.) and lunch (pizza, chips, cupcakes, cookies, fruit, etc.) and snacks for the students, parents and coaches as well as anyone in attendance.

Pikeville finished first in the overall Varsity meet, followed by Belfry and Letcher Central.

East Ridge earned the Junior Varsity title, followed by Shelby Valley, with Knott Central and Pike Central tied for third.

Perry County Central High School earned top honors in a special video project that encouraged students to resist drugs. East Ridge and Cordia placed second and third, respectively, in that category.

Winning students received certificates signed by U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers and teams took home cash prizes. This money helps teams to buy practice questions, buzzer systems and cover the cost of travel to tournaments. Total prize money from all sponsorships was $3,200.

The event was sponsored by the BSCTC Academic Team, UNITE Pike, Community Trust Bank, State Rep. Leslie Combs, City of Pikeville, Karen Kelly, Pikeville City Commissioner Barry Chaney, Tom Wright and UMG.

A new national report shows Kentucky fares well compared to other states in the number of patients potentially misusing non-prescribed medications or abusing illegal drugs.

Kentucky, “which has long been known as an epicenter of the national prescription drug epidemic,” was “noticeably absent” from the top 10 worst performing states in each of three categories studied, according to the report, released December 17 by Ameritox, a leader in medication monitoring solutions.

Urine samples were collected from more than 400,000 patients to examine three specific areas of concern: (1) patients who were prescribed drugs but those drugs weren’t found; (2) evidence of drugs for which there was no prescription; and (3) the presence of one or more illicit drugs.

“Kentucky showed modest improvements in each of the three categories between 2012 and 2014,” the research report stated. By comparison, overall more patients on chronic opioid therapy tested positive for a drug not prescribed by their doctor or for an illicit drug than two years ago.

“Treating pain is a major challenge in our society, and so is the potential for misuse of prescription medications and the abuse of illicit drugs,” said Scott Walton, CEO of Ameritox. “We need a concerted, dynamic approach – one that uses monitoring and additional insights at the clinical level – to address this problem.”

The report showed that Kentucky:

• Ranked 36th for “prescribed drug not found” at 23.7% of samples.

• Ranked 35th for “non-prescribed drug found” at 30.3% of samples.

• Ranked 22nd for “one or more illicit drugs found” at 11.9% of samples. Marijuana (78%), cocaine (16.7%) and heroin (4.6%) were the most common substances detected among the samples testing positive.

Van Ingram, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Drug Control Policy, said the report indicates state efforts to address this national epidemic are working.

“The strategies we have implemented in Kentucky are having a positive effect,” Ingram said. “Cautious prescribing, use of prescription monitoring systems and drug disposal are just some of the strategies that are having an impact on Kentucky’s prescription drug problems.”

There were 980 Kentucky resident drug overdose deaths in 2013, a 5% decrease from 1,032 deaths in 2012, according to the Kentucky Safety and Alignment Network. Drugs and medications – over-the-counter, prescription drugs and illicit drugs – were the underlying cause of death for 94.5% of all poisoning deaths in the state.

“It’s a validation that our treatment and education initiatives are working,” noted Dan Smoot, president and CEO of Operation UNITE, which has been dealing with prescription drug problems in southern and eastern Kentucky since 2003.

UNITE’s unique three-pronged approach to curbing prescription drug abuse and diversion – through law enforcement, treatment and education initiatives – has been heralded at many levels, including the White House. In addition, UNITE organizes an annual National Rx Drug Abuse Summit that is the largest national collaboration of professionals impacted by prescription drug abuse.

“Our success is due, in part, to state officials making prescription drug abuse a priority,” Smoot stated. “Through legislative action and support of programs such as Recovery Kentucky and Drug Courts, we’ve come leaps and bounds from the destructive spiral we were on just a decade ago.”

“Is there still work to be done? Absolutely,” Smoot said. “But, this positive report reflects that we’re moving in the right direction.”

America’s top official in the effort to reduce drug use and its consequences will help Operation UNITE recognize and “Celebrate Successes in Prevention and Education” throughout southern and eastern Kentucky at a luncheon on Tuesday, February 17.

Michael Botticelli, acting director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), will join Kentucky’s Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers at the celebration, which begins at 11 a.m. at Eastern Kentucky University’s Manchester Campus.

Download event flyer, click here  

“Kentucky has been a hot zone for prescription drug abuse and diversion for more than a decade. Lives were being lost and families torn apart at unacceptable rates,” said Dan Smoot, UNITE president/CEO. “Through prevention and awareness initiatives, UNITE has been able to slow the problem and engage thousands of citizens to address substance abuse-related issues within their own communities.”

“The volunteers working with UNITE Coalitions in each of our 32 counties are having an impact, although we know there’s much more to accomplish,” Smoot continued. “This celebration is an opportunity to pause and thank these folks at the grassroots level who are making a difference and recognize a few of their most successful initiatives.”

The public is invited to participate in the celebration. There is no charge to attend, but because lunch will be served an RSVP is requested by Thursday, February 12, to Gina Muncy at gmuncy@centertech.com. On-site registration will start at 10:30 a.m.

As ONDCP director, Botticelli is responsible for the National Drug Control Strategy, which outlines efforts to reduce drug use, manufacturing and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences. This strategy places an emphasis on community-based prevention programs, diverting non-violent drug offenders into treatment instead of jail, and expanding access to substance abuse treatment.

Congressman Rogers, whose vision created UNITE in 2003, is recognized as a national leader on drug-related issues.

“UNITE’s unique approach to place equal emphasis on education, treatment and enforcement has been heralded as a model for the nation,” Smoot said, noting an annual National Rx Drug Abuse Summit, hosted by UNITE, is regarded as the largest collaboration of professionals and stakeholders addressing substance abuse issues.

LONDON – Nancy Hale, a long-time educator and current Co-Program Director of the UNITE Service Corps (AmeriCorps) initiative, will become President and Chief Executive Officer of Operation UNITE effective Monday, February 9.

Hale succeeds Dan Smoot, who has been tapped to lead a new drug prevention/education initiative for Appalachia HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area).

“I am humbled and appreciative of the Board’s decision and their faith in my abilities to lead Operation UNITE,” Hale said. “It has been an honor to be part of the UNITE team – both as a volunteer and an employee – in service to our communities. There is nothing more important we can do than to educate and save our youth.”

“We first became acquainted with Nancy through her volunteering with the UNITE community coalition in Rockcastle County,” noted Tom Handy, chairman of the UNITE Board of Directors. “She has been an excellent leader in creating and sustaining educational and treatment programs. We have every expectation that she will take UNITE to new heights.”

“I have the utmost respect and confidence in Nancy Hale’s abilities to lead the UNITE program,” said Kentucky Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, whose vision resulted in the creation of the anti-drug initiative in 2003. “She is highly respected and brings a solid background of leadership, skills and compassion to the position.”

Hale retired from public education in 2012 after 34 years as a teacher, career counselor, and administrative coordinator. That fall she joined UNITE to help provide coordination for the AmeriCorps grant program, which currently serves 44 elementary schools in 13 districts across southern and eastern Kentucky.

Very involved in her community, Hale has served as an Executive Board Member and volunteer with the Rockcastle County (KY) UNITE Coalition for the last 10 years, with the Kentucky YMCA Youth Association for 25 years, as well as a current Board Member and twice-elected President of the Kentucky Association of Professional Educators.

As a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Pi Chapter, Hale was named “Kentucky Volunteer of the Year” in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2004. She received the “Golden Apple Achiever Award” from Ashland Oil, Inc. in 2000 as one of Kentucky’s outstanding educators. In 2001, she was chosen as the “Kentucky YMCA Champion,” and was the first inductee into the Kentucky YMCA Youth Advisor Hall of Fame in 2010.

She and her husband, John, also an educator and principal for 42 years, are the parents of two grown sons and have two granddaughters.

“Nancy is a passionate advocate for drug abuse prevention and education,” Smoot said. “Like many residents of the region, her family has endured the anguish and uncertainties of dealing with substance abuse. She is a well-respected and capable leader that brings a strong perspective to UNITE’s important mission.”

Prior to joining UNITE, Smoot worked 22 years with the Kentucky State Police – primarily in narcotics enforcement. In November 2003, Smoot joined UNITE as Drug Task Force Manager for the Kentucky River Region. A month later he was promoted to Law Enforcement Director, and in September 2011 was named UNITE Vice President. Smoot became President/CEO in May 2013. He begins he new role on March 1.

As AHIDTA’s first Director of Drug Prevention and Education Smoot will coordinate such programs as the “Give Me A Reason” drug prevention initiative, designed to provide youth another way to resist peer pressure to experiment with drugs. Launched in partnership with UNITE in October 2014, this program provides free saliva-based drug test kits to parents.

“Operation UNITE has become an extremely effective drug-fighting program, especially in addressing the need to educate our youth to the harmful effects of drug use,” said Frank Rapier, executive director of AHIDTA. “We want to replicate this huge success into other areas of Appalachia.”

“Dan has proven to be a true professional and tireless worker,” Rapier continued. “We want to utilize his skills to continue coalition-building and find new ways to be more effective in stopping the cycle of abuse.”

Five free regional Shoot Hoops Not Drugs basketball camps conducted by former University of Kentucky all-star Jeff Sheppard will be offered by Operation UNITE this summer.

All school-age youth are invited to participate in any of the camps, to be held at the following dates and locations:
• Monday, June 8, at Magoffin County High School in Salyersville.
• Tuesday, June 9, at Prestonsburg High School.
• Thursday, June 11, at Jackson County High School in McKee.
• Tuesday, June 16, at Lynn Camp High School at Corbin in Knox County.
• Thursday, June 18, McCreary County Middle School in Stearns.

Each camp begins at 4 p.m. and concludes about 7 p.m. Participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes early for registration. (There is no advance registration.)

Shoot Hoops Not Drugs camps provide basketball skills instruction in conjunction with anti-drug and self-esteem messages.

For safety and comfort while participating, youth are asked not to wear open-toe shoes or sandals.

All participants will receive a free event T-shirt, regulation-sized signature basketball, food and water, and be entered into a drawing for two portable basketball goals given away at the conclusion of each camp (you must be present to win).

Presented by Ameritox, Shoot Hoops Not Drugs camps are fun, interactive and provide a safe, drug-free activity where children have an opportunity to interact with positive role models while learning fundamental basketball skills.

In addition, parents and guardians will have an opportunity to attend a brief UNITE Foundation-sponsored education program on marijuana. Information on the signs, symptoms and dangers posed by prescription drugs will also be provided.

As a senior at the University of Kentucky, Sheppard was named the NCAA’s Final Four Most Valuable Player in the Wildcats’ 1997-98 National Championship season. He would later go on to play one season with the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks and 3 years in Italy.

Helping make the 2015 Shoot Hoops Not Drugs camps possible are Bowling Funeral Home (London), Chad’s Hope Teen Challenge Center (Manchester), and WestCare Hal Rogers Appalachian Recovery Center (Ashcamp).

Since 2006, UNITE has conducted 56 regional basketball camps with 7,713 youth participants representing 56 Kentucky counties, 19 other states and two other countries. More than 1,381 parents/caregivers have attended the educational programs.

America’s drug czar will help Operation UNITE recognize and “Celebrate Successes in Prevention and Education” throughout southern and eastern Kentucky at a luncheon on Tuesday, May 5.

Michael Botticelli, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), will join Kentucky’s Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers and Wendy Spencer, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), at the celebration, which begins at 11 a.m. at Eastern Kentucky University’s Manchester Campus.

Click here to download event flyer.

“Kentucky has experienced more than its fair share of prescription drug abuse and diversion-related problems for more than a decade. Overdose death rates were climbing and families were being torn apart at unacceptable rates,” said Nancy Hale, UNITE president/CEO. “Through prevention and awareness initiatives, UNITE has been able to slow the problem and engage thousands of citizens to address substance abuse-related issues within their own communities.”

“The volunteers working with UNITE Coalitions in each of our 32 counties are having an impact, although we know there’s much more to accomplish,” Hale continued. “This celebration is an opportunity to pause and thank these folks at the grassroots level who are making a difference and recognize a few of their most successful initiatives.”

Originally scheduled for February, this event had to be postponed due to weather.

The public is invited to participate in the celebration. There is no charge to attend, but because lunch will be served an RSVP is requested by Wednesday, April 29, to Cheryl Keaton at ckeaton@centertech.com. On-site check-in will begin at 10:30 a.m.

As ONDCP director, Botticelli is responsible for the National Drug Control Strategy, which outlines efforts to reduce drug use, manufacturing and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences. This strategy places an emphasis on community-based prevention programs, diverting non-violent drug offenders into treatment instead of jail, and expanding access to substance abuse treatment.

At CNCS, Spencer oversees the administration of AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, the Social Innovation Fund, and other programs that engage millions of Americans in service and volunteering to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic engagement. UNITE’s Service Corps initiative provides 44 AmeriCorps members this school year.

Congressman Rogers, whose vision created UNITE in 2003, is recognized as a national leader on drug-related issues.

“UNITE’s unique approach to place equal emphasis on education, treatment and enforcement has been heralded as a model for the nation,” Smoot said, noting an annual National Rx Drug Abuse Summit, hosted by UNITE, is regarded as the largest collaboration of professionals and stakeholders addressing substance abuse issues.

LONDON – Twenty-four high school seniors were presented “I Am UNITE” scholarships totaling $36,000 for being champions for anti-drug efforts during a dinner celebration held Tuesday, May 5, at the London Community Center.

Michael Botticelli, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, joined Fifth District Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers in recognizing the youth. Also on hand were the presidents or their designees from nine of the 13 colleges and universities where the students will attend classes this fall.

“We don’t give enough credit to our young people, but many of the 2015 UNITE scholarship recipients have persevered through more challenges than any adult in this room,” Rogers said. “The students are the ones who have taught us the most about effective prevention efforts.”

Whether overcoming the loss of a family member or simply determined to be the positive change they want to see in our region, the scholarship recipients have been “Ambassadors” of UNITE’s mission by embracing drug-free lifestyles in their schools and communities, Rogers noted.

Each scholarship is worth $1,500 toward post-secondary expenses. Funding for the scholarships comes from proceeds of the National Rx Drug Abuse Summit, which Operation UNITE has hosted for the past four years.

“We could spend a lot of time talking about the impeccable grades and achievements of these students, but tonight we want to focus on what else makes them stand out – their efforts that make them a part of UNITE,” said Nancy Hale, UNITE president/CEO.

Receiving this year’s scholarships were:

• Addison Atkin from Rockcastle County High. He will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• Cambriana Bobrowski from Owsley County High. She will be attending the University of Pikeville.
• Kia Bolen from Magoffin County High. She will be attending the University of Pikeville.
• Avery Bradshaw from Rockcastle County High. He will be attending Somerset Community and Technical College.
• Jordyn Bray from Somerset High School. She will be attending Campbellsville University.
• Latasha Cornett from North Laurel High. She will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• Reiley Crum from Johnson Central High. He will be attending Big Sandy Community and Technical College.
• Miranda Dugger from Corbin High. She will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• Karilyn Harris from Boyd County High. She will be attending Ashland Community and Technical College.
• Melinda Hatfield from Belfry High. She will be attending Big Sandy Community and Technical College.
• Sydney Jones from Shelby Valley High. She will be attending Big Sandy Community and Technical College.
• Hanna Logan from Whitley County High. She will be attending Somerset Community and Technical College.
• Angelica Mayo from Corbin High School. She will be attending Liberty University.
• Olivia Moore from Jackson Independent High. She will be attending the University of Kentucky.
• Tanner Morris from Harlan Independent High. He will be attending Union College.
• Savanna Nunnelley from Pineville Independent High. She will be attending the University of the Cumberlands.
• Tiffany Porter from West Carter High. She will be attending Morehead State University.
• Steven Prater from Phelps High. He will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• Austin Shrum from Knott County Central High. He will be attending Alice Lloyd College.
• Abigail Smallwood from Shelby Valley High. She will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• April Smith from Owsley County High. She will be attending Hazard Community and Technical College (Lee’s Campus).
• Mikayla Smith from North Laurel High. She will be attending the University of the Cumberlands.
• Skylar Stacy from Wolfe County High. She will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.
• Autumn Ward from Corbin High. She will be attending Eastern Kentucky University.

The “I Am UNITE” Scholarship program was established by the UNITE Foundation in May 2013, using proceeds from the National Rx Drug Abuse Summit – the largest annual collaboration of professionals in the United States focused on the prescription drug epidemic. To date, the UNITE Foundation has provided scholarships to 66 students.

In addition to the scholarship, students received a framed certificate along with a trophy naming them “UNITE Ambassadors.”

To qualify for a scholarship, a student must:

• Live within the 32 counties served by Operation UNITE;
• Be a member of their school-based UNITE Club or served as a team leader during Camp UNITE – our free, three-day, four-night leadership adventure camp for middle school students held at the University of the Cumberlands;
• Have an average cumulative GPA of 2.75;
• Participate in a minimum of 25 hours volunteer community service;
• and, submit an essay explaining how they exemplify the “I Am UNITE” theme.

PRESTONSBURG (6-4-15) – Members of UNITE’s Service Corps have been tutors, teachers, mentors and coaches throughout this past school year.

“They have educated, they have been role models, and they have served,” said Nancy Hale, UNITE president/CEO, during a year-end celebration for the AmeriCorps program on June 4 at the Mountain Arts Center in Prestonsburg.

Click here to view photos from the celebration.

As drug prevention educators “you have been the messenger” to thousands of elementary school students, said Hale, who served as Co-Program Director until earlier this year. “Kids who receive drug education early are far more likely to avoid drugs later in life.”

“Doing community service not only makes a difference to those who are being served, but to those who provide the service,” Hale concluded. “Everything you do, everything you say is going to have a lasting impact forever.”

For the 2014-15 school year, the UNITE Service Corps placed 44 AmeriCorps members at schools in Bell, Breathitt, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Leslie, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle and Wolfe counties, as well as the East Bernstadt Independent school system.

AmeriCorps members provide math tutoring, teach the “Too Good for Drugs” and “Healthy Futures/Take 10” wellness curriculums, and coordinate anti-drug UNITE Clubs. In addition, members participate in their local UNITE Community Coalitions and recruit caregivers who provide thousands of hours for school prevention activities.

As of mid-year, the most recent stats available, UNITE Service Corps members had tutored 2,459 students in math and provided mentoring to 3,815 students, said Eugene Newsome, USC Program Director. The overall growth in math test scores was 42.42% — the highest rate of success for individual students in program history – and the average increase in drug education knowledge was 40.53%.

“This is a very good day, but also a very sad day,” said UNITE Education Director Debbie Trusty. “We celebrate what you have done, but are sad that we say good-bye to so many excellent members.”

The event was also an opportunity to introduce Melinda Kincer, a retired Rockcastle County educator, as the new UNITE Service Corps co-program director.

Two second-year AmeriCorps members – Cary Hughes (Valley Elementary in Pike County) and Michelle Martin (Mt. Vernon Elementary in Rockcastle County) – were honored with “Hal Rogers Difference Maker” awards. Named for U.S. Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers, the awards recognize “the tireless efforts of people in southern and eastern Kentucky who go above and beyond the call of duty to make a life-changing impact in our region.”

Marlana VanHoose, an Eastern Kentucky native, performed several inspiring songs during the celebration.

Blind since birth, VanHoose was not expected to live longer than one year. But, by age two she had taught herself to play piano and has established herself as a nationally acclaimed performer.

The 19-year-old VanHoose is a member of the Artist Music Guild where she was the 2012 recipient for New Artist of the Year and Young Artist of the Year. She also was a 2013 nominee for Artist of the Year.

AmeriCorps is a national service program administered by the Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS), part of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and the federal Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS).

Wendy Spencer, Chief Executive Officer of CNCS, lauded the UNITE Service Corps during a community celebration held this past May in Manchester.

“By harnessing the power of AmeriCorps and community volunteers, UNITE has developed a winning strategy to help thousands of Kentucky youth keep away from drugs and stay on track in school,” Spencer said. “UNITE’s AmeriCorps program is a model for communities across the nation working to fight drug abuse, and I salute UNITE’s AmeriCorps members and volunteers for their impact and success.”

LONDON – The UNITE Service Corps has received funding for 44 AmeriCorps members to provide math tutoring and substance abuse prevention education during the 2015-16 school year.

The $543,400 grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) will enable UNITE to place AmeriCorps members at elementary schools in Bell, Breathitt, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Leslie, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Rockcastle and Wolfe counties, and East Bernstadt Independent – the same school systems served this past school year.

In addition to math tutoring, AmeriCorps members teach the “Too Good for Drugs” and “Healthy Futures/Take 10” wellness curriculums, as well as coordinate anti-drug UNITE Clubs in their school. In addition, members participate in their local UNITE Community Coalitions and recruit volunteers who provide thousands of hours for school prevention activities.

As of mid-year, the most recent stats available, UNITE Service Corps members had tutored 2,459 students in math and provided mentoring to 3,815 students, said Eugene Newsome, USC Program Director. The overall growth in math test scores was 42.42% – the highest rate of success for individual students in program history – and the average increase in drug education knowledge was 40.53%.

Earlier this year, CNCS Chief Executive Officer Wendy Spencer lauded the UNITE Service Corps as “a model for communities across the nation” for developing “a winning strategy to help thousands of Kentucky youth keep away from drugs and stay on track in school.”

“We are proud of the accomplishments of our Service Corps members,” said Nancy Hale, president/CEO of Operation UNITE, who served as co-program director for the initiative until taking her current position this past February. “They are making a difference in many young lives.”

Service Corps Program Director Eugene Newsome noted that AmeriCorps members are also very involved outside their schools, working with UNITE youth initiatives – such as Shoot Hoops Not Drugs and Camp UNITE – as well as their local volunteer community coalitions.

“AmeriCorps members are an invaluable resource for the populations they serve,” Newsome said. “I salute their dedication and strong work ethic.”

Two other Kentucky programs serving the Fifth Congressional District receiving funding:

• Teach for America-Kentucky in Hazard ($36,800). Teach for America-Kentucky members will serve as classroom teachers in low-income rural schools resulting in improved educational outcomes for students. The program will serve schools in the central Appalachia school districts in southeastern Kentucky.

• Morehead State University’s MSU Corps ($379,035). MSU Corps members will provide reading tutoring for academically at-risk students utilizing the “Great Leaps” reading curriculum and recruit and train community volunteers to be reading tutors. Members develop and demonstrate skills in tutoring, civic engagement and volunteer recruitment in Eastern Kentucky.

“The commonwealth sees great rewards from national service,” said Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear. “AmeriCorps fills pressing social needs and makes our communities stronger.”

“Members gain leadership skills and career experience,” Beshear added. “We value AmeriCorps partnerships and congratulate the programs that have received grant funding.”

AmeriCorps is a national service program administered by the Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS), part of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services, and the federal Corporation for National and Community Service.

KCCVS Executive Director Joe Bringardner said he is proud of Kentucky programs’ showing among the national grant awardees.

“These programs have distinct goals to help educate youth, provide comfort to seniors and rebuild families’ lives by building homes,” Bringardner said. “Our AmeriCorps members use their talents, their vision and their boundless energy to establish immediate and long-lasting change in Kentucky.”

WILLIAMSBURG – Throughout the week, participants in the 9th annual Camp UNITE engaged in fun activities designed to develop leadership and communication skills, promote teamwork and problem solving, instill confidence and trust, and let youth know they do not have to face difficult situations on their own.

The underlying theme to camp – there is “Hope In Action” by remaining free from alcohol, tobacco and other drugs – was driven home by speakers during an emotional closing ceremony on Friday, July 24.

This summer 192 middle school-aged youth from 23 counties attended Camp UNITE, held on the University of the Cumberlands campus. Activities during the week included competitive events, swimming, outrageous games, motivational speakers, a visit to the Hal Rogers Water Park, and more.

One of the most valuable components of camp is the peer mentorship and positive role models provided this year by 55 high school and college students who served as team leaders. These leaders were supervised by a staff of 50 adults and aided by an additional 70 community volunteers.

Six of the campers and team leaders shared their personal, heart-tugging stories about overcoming bad situations resulting from substance abuse within their homes. For several, it was their first time to talk openly about their past.

“I don’t have parents,” offered one young lady, adding her dad died of an overdose and her mom hasn’t spoken to her in four years.

Another noted she was born dependent on drugs due to her mother’s addiction.

“You can have everything and still go down the path of drug abuse,” said one young man. “You make it through by the choices you make.”

“Each of us does not have to be like our family,” added another youth. “There is a bright side. You can be your own person.”

“Sometimes we have bad things happen that bring out the good in each of us,” summarized Tom Vicini, a UNITE coalition coordinator. “Know that there are people who really care about you … that strangers can actually love you. Take that hope back with you as you leave today.”

Keynote presenter Jerod Thomas captivated attendees by recounting how he had lost everything – including a promising million-dollar-per-year career in the National Football League – because he did not resist peer pressure to try drugs.

“There is something inside you that makes you want to be popular,” said Thomas, who grew up with an abusive father who was an alcoholic and a bookie. To make matters worse, he also suffered from dyslexia.

“Whatever God takes away from you he gives you something else (to compensate),” Thomas said, adding he was encouraged to try out for football. “It was fast and violent. It was my house. It came easy for me.”

Early successes on the gridiron led to some bad choices and a feeling of entitlement because “I never paid (consequences) for what I did. … I was becoming a little monster.”

Thomas was a member of the Marshall University Thundering Herd National Championship team in 1987 and the Southern Conference championship team in 1988. He was a defensive starter at free safety and an Academic All-American.

He transferred to Morehead State University for his senior year, where he was Defensive Captain and named to the All Ohio Valley Conference Team. He made the starting roster for the NFL Arizona Cardinals’ mini-camp, but his addiction to cocaine and drinking led to a lifetime ban.

Within a short period of time he had lost his wife and son, was living in his car, and had spent numerous nights in jail for felony drug convictions.

He was given a final reprieve by a judge in Fayette County who sent him to rehab at WestCare Kentucky’s facility in Pike County.

Thomas ultimately received his Master’s of Education degree at the University of Tennessee, and taught and coached high school athletics in the Tennessee school system. He left teaching and pursued a career in sales, which included various products and services, and a position as National Sales Director for an athletic apparel company.

But, in 2009, he felt called to help others like himself and joined the WestCare staff as a drug and alcohol counselor. He was promoted to Program Director for the Boyle County Detention Center Substance Abuse Program, and currently serves as Deputy Administrator, overseeing all of WestCare’s treatment programs in Kentucky.

Stay positive and try not to make things harder for others, because “you don’t know what is going on behind closed doors,” he said, referencing the comments made earlier by the youth campers and team leaders. “The race in the end is only with yourself.”

Dr. Larry Cockrum, president-elect of the University of the Cumberlands, provided a whimsical welcome with his modified rendition of Baxter Black’s “People Are Funny Critters,” referencing the many antics that occurred on campus throughout the week.

He ended with a simple, straight-forward message to his young audience: “Make sure you graduate.”

Shedding his tie and taking a seat center stage, Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers told campers it was important to take a stand for what you believe.

As a private attorney, the Clay County native said he made lots of money practicing criminal law. But, in 2005, Stivers promised his ailing father that he would quit defending drug dealers and “do something based on what is good for my community” instead of putting money in his pockets.

“I fought some of the toughest battles in my political career” supporting legislation targeting drug diversion, toughening penalties for drug sales, requiring better prescriber education, expanding treatment opportunities, and restricting the sale of controlled substances, Stivers noted.

Following his address, Stivers presented camp medals to the attendees and asked each participant to sign a pledge to remain drug free.

Camp UNITE is presented by Toyota Motor Manufacturing-Kentucky along with camp sponsors: AmeriCorps-Kentucky; Appalachia HIDTA; Applebee’s of Pikeville; Community Trust Bank, Kentucky Employers’ Mutual Insurance (KEMI); Owens, Inc.; and the City of Williamsburg, Kentucky Splash Water Park; Christian Appalachian Project, Corbin Ice Company, Cumberland Gap Mountain Spring Water, Kentucky Army National Guard, Southeastern Kentucky PRIDE, and the University of the Cumberlands.

A total of 162 people attended six regional roundtables for representatives of UNITE Community Coalitions during October 2015. The roundtables were conducted in London, Somerset, Beattyville, Grayson, Prestonsburg and Hazard.

To view photos from the roundtables click on name of the city.

The roundtables were designed to let coalitions – many of which have new officers and members – know what programs and services UNITE has available to help serve residents of their communities, to share ideas that have been successful for other coalitions, and to discuss changes in the process for coalitions to request funding for local projects.

In addition, each roundtable featured the story of a person who had completed substance abuse treatment using a UNITE Voucher. This was also an excellent opportunity to meet leaders from other counties and exchange ideas.

Participants at each roundtable were entered into a drawing for a pair of tickets to the Charlotte vs University of Kentucky football game on November 21. The winner was Matt Brown of Louisa.