The Bay Area Council on Drugs and Alcohol (BACODA), established in 1974, has been a cornerstone in the Texas Bay Area's efforts to combat substance abuse. Founded by concerned parents, business leaders, and healthcare professionals, BACODA's mission is to empower communities through prevention, education, intervention, and recovery services.
Formation and Expansion
Initially serving the Texas Bay Area, BACODA expanded its reach to Galveston, Brazoria, Matagorda, and Southeast Harris Counties. This growth enabled the organization to address the unique needs of diverse communities, fostering healthier environments through targeted programs and initiatives.
Community Coalitions
Central to BACODA's strategy are its community coalitions, which collaborate with local stakeholders to implement evidence-based prevention strategies:
Brazoria County Community Coalition (BCCC): Collaborated with building owner Betty Alcala at the in the 200 block of West Park Avenue, the BCCP commissioned a mural to brighten the downtown area of Freeport. The design represents the highlights of Freeport and encourages visitors and residents to enjoy all that Freeport has to offer.
Matagorda County Community Coalition (MCCC): Installed a Blessing Box at Just Do It Now in Wharton, Texas, providing non-perishable food items, toiletries, and books to the community.
Southeast Harris Community Coalition (SEHCC): Engaged in outreach and education, compliance checks to reduce underage drinking, and responsible beverage service campaigns in areas like Deer Park, La Porte, and Baytown.
Youthworks Program
BACODA's Youthworks Program provides essential prevention services to middle, and high schools in school districts in Southeast Harris, Galveston, Matagorda, and Brazoria Counties. Prevention Specialists are trained in providing scientifically based curricula structured to build resistance and enhance living skills among youth and adolescents.
Life Recovery Services
BACODA's Life Recovery Services offer programs designed to educate participants about substance use disorders and the problems associated with chemical dependency. These services include psycho-educational classes, crisis counseling, brief motivational counseling, assessments, problem identification, and referrals. Licensed counselors provide these services, and state-certified instructors teach the educational classes.
Mental Health Awareness Training (MHAT)
Recognizing the importance of mental health in substance abuse prevention, BACODA offers Mental Health Awareness Training for Adults (MHAT). This program provides training in Mental Health First Aid across various subcategories, including Fire & EMS, Higher Education, Law Enforcement, Older Adults, and Veterans & Service Members. The training equips participants with the skills to assist individuals experiencing mental health challenges, thereby strengthening community support systems.
Detour
Detour is a school-based, youth prevention program that includes Prevention, Intervention and Counseling Services for at-risk adolescents. Detour follows the philosophy that early intervention prevents the onset of risky behaviors and supports the development of a youth's assets and resilience.
Legacy and Impact
Through its comprehensive programs and community coalitions, BACODA has significantly impacted substance abuse prevention and recovery in the Texas Bay Area. By fostering partnerships and promoting evidence-based strategies, BACODA continues to empower individuals and communities toward healthier, substance-free lives.
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