In 2025, MDC will further its mission by fostering deep community collaborations and developing innovative programs in prevention, harm reduction, and recovery support. Together with our partners and neighbors, we aim to strengthen the health and resilience of East Tennessee, building a future where hope and recovery thrive. Below are some of the primary focuses that we will have in 2025.

Prevention: Empowering Future Generations

  • Juvenile Detention Center Collaboration: We will create impactful programming to support incarcerated youth, providing prevention education and opportunities for personal growth that address substance misuse and underlying trauma.
  • Substance Misuse Education: MDC will expand its evidence-based education programming in Knox County Schools, ensuring students are equipped to make informed, healthy choices.
  • Youth Advocacy Revitalization: We will revive the Youth Metro Drug Coalition (YMDC) to elevate youth voices and foster leadership, empowering students to co-create prevention initiatives.
  • Trauma-Informed Care for Obstetricians: By training regional obstetricians in trauma-informed care, we will help them provide pregnant patients with compassionate, effective care and support to prevent substance misuse and work toward healing their trauma.
  • Youth-Led Campaigns: Collaborating with students, MDC will develop social media campaigns that resonate with their peers, promoting prevention and wellness.
  • Consistent Messaging in Schools: Prevention messaging will reach students daily through gymnasium and/or sports field banners, reinforcing positive health behaviors.

Harm Reduction: Saving Lives and Strengthening Communities

  • Support for Overdose Survivors and Responders: MDC will support first responders and overdose patients through our new Care Coordinator position, offering critical follow-up care and resources.
  • Mission District Medical Outreach: We will continue to expand this vital program, addressing the healthcare needs of our Mission District neighbors and offering overdose response training to community members.
  • Community-Based Overdose Preparedness: MDC will continue to foster relationships with residents and organizations, equipping them with the knowledge and tools to save lives.

Recovery Support: Building Connection and Sustainability

  • Advisory Committee for The Gateway: A newly established Advisory Committee will help guide the development of innovative, community-driven programming for The Gateway Recovery Community Center.
  • Recovery Coalition: MDC will launch a Recovery Coalition to unite organizations and individuals working toward shared goals, amplifying recovery efforts across the region.
  • Certified Recovery Community Organization: By working toward RCO certification, MDC will cement its role as a leader in recovery support and advocacy.
  • Expanding Education: We will offer robust training opportunities for professionals in addiction treatment and recovery housing, enhancing their ability to serve effectively.
  • Membership Model for The Gateway: Implementing a membership-based model will empower participants to take an active role in maintaining and shaping The Gateway’s culture, fostering a sense of ownership and accountability.

Collaboration: Together We Achieve More

MDC will continue to prioritize partnerships with aligned organizations as we work toward expanding our reach in all areas of our work. Each time we join together with other organizations, we amplify our impact in prevention, harm reduction, and recovery, creating a healthier community for all.

2025: A Year of Growth, Connection, and Hope

With a steadfast commitment to our mission, MDC will continue to innovate, collaborate, and advocate. By empowering youth, supporting recovery, and saving lives through harm reduction, MDC will lead the way toward a brighter, healthier future.