Maine’s overdose death rate is said to be one of the highest in the nation at 7 percent of 10,000 overdoses.
The Southern Aroostook Development Corporation will conduct a roundtable discussion on what businesses can do to battle the rising substance use disorder problem at the next general board meeting, slated at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
Invited to join the conversation and provide some insight into existing support programs will be Julia Macek, behavioral health and integration program director for Aroostook Mental Health Services; Trudy Rairdon, Link for Hope co-chair and Houlton Regional Hospital quality assurance manager; and Deb Jacques, AMHC marketing and development and project director.
The October general board meeting will be held at the Houlton Regional Hospital education room. There will be a special presentation by Jason Parent, CEO of Aroostook County Action Program, to discuss their workforce development programs, what local businesses can help with as well as what programs may help businesses in the staffing struggles.
The roundtable discussion will follow.
All business leaders and those interested in helping are welcome to attend and join the dialogue. RSVPs are encouraged and appreciated. Email Johanna@sadcaroostook.org.
