News from HCA's Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery

HCA hiring State Opioid Response (SOR) Prevention System Manager

Are you passionate about making a difference for families and children in the state of Washington? The Prevention System Manager oversees the implementation of opioid prevention projects, manages contracts, and collaborates with communities, healthcare providers, and state agencies to drive meaningful change. This role combines project management, policy development, and stakeholder engagement in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Telework flexibility and a strong benefits package make this a rewarding and balanced career for experienced prevention professionals.

WA survey shows shifting cannabis trends: higher use, higher perceived risks

11 years after legalization, cannabis use among WA young adults rises, but perceived risks also increase.

New! Focus On goals planner

The Focus On underage drinking prevention campaign produced a new interactive planner that will support youth in identifying, reaching, and reflecting on their goals—while reminding them to steer clear of alcohol so they can prioritize what matters most.

Drug Take Back Day promotion webinar next week!

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, October 25. Join us for a webinar, Tuesday, September 30, at 11:00 a.m., to learn how to promote Take Back events and safe medication disposal in your community using resources available through the Starts with One prescription opioid misuse prevention campaign. And, get a preview of changes coming to the campaign in the near future, including a variety of new materials and updates to the website.

DBHR awards community-based organizations funding for youth substance use prevention and mental health promotion

The Washington State Health Care Authority’s Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is happy to announce a list of organizations as apparent successful applicants for the Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) #2025PxPromo01.

Updated For Our Lives toolkit available!

New look!

Now Available: Focus On Planners - Order by August 29th

HCA’s Focus On underage drinking prevention campaign has created a new “My Future in Focus” goals planner for youth that is now available for print requests.

Nominate an outstanding prevention professional today!

Are you interested in nominating someone who has made an impact in your community? The ServiceNow nomination survey for the 2025 Prevention Awards of Excellence is available through Thursday, July 31. Nominations are only accepted via ServiceNow.

Recognizing youth in lieu of the Spring Youth Forum

This year, the Health Care Authority's (HCA) Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery (DBHR) Prevention Section and leadership had to make the unfortunate decision to not hold an in-person Spring Youth Forum. Conference chair Tony Edwards-Lenton has shared some amazing ideas to continue to celebrate youth locally! Watch for updates on the Spring Youth Forum website and The Athena Forum to see youth teams recognized! 

The draft agenda is live: DBHR's 2025 Coalition Leadership Institute

The draft agenda is now available! Register today and download the draft agenda for the Health Care Authority Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery's 2025 Coalition Leadership Institute (CLI) on June 24–25!