Appalachian Opioid Affected Youth

The OJJDP FY 2020 Opioid Affected Youth Initiative (OAYI) will support the efforts of states, communities, tribal jurisdictions, nonprofit organizations, for-profit organizations and institutions of higher education to implement programs and strategies that identify, respond to, treat, and support children, youth, and families impacted by the opioid epidemic.

The Knoxville Leadership Foundation (KLF) will use funding to collaborate with the Lexington Leadership Foundation to provide direct support services to youth impacted by the effects of the opioid crisis and train youth-serving organizations across the region. Through the Appalachian Opioid Affected Youth Initiative, KLF proposes to assist youth impacted by opioids in developing the protective factors needed to avoid engaging in drug misuse. At-risk and high-risk youth age 17 or younger who are affected by opioids either due to personal opioid/drug misuse, misuse of opioids by a family member or guardian, or high rates of opioid use/misuse in their neighborhoods and schools will be educated on the dangers of opioid misuse and receive access to direct support services. CA/NCF