Youth Thrive Program - Employer Placement Proposal

About Us Who We Are J Healthcare Initiative is a registered Canadian non-profit dedicated to empowering people who use substances to make informed healthcare decisions. We work across Canada and the United States, advancing innovative, user-led, and evidence-based harm reduction strategies. Our mission is to expand substance use treatment options and champion self-determination in healthcare. Our Cause We address the urgent need for compassionate, science-backed harm reduction in substance use spectrum. Too often, drug users face structural and systemic barriers to healthcare. We believe everyone deserves access to information, life-saving resources, and a voice in their own care. By supporting harm reduction and meaningful community engagement, we aim to reduce preventable deaths and improve quality of life. Our Goals Expand access to individualized health promoting resources and education Innovate new digital tools and peer-led support models Build capacity for user-led, evidence-based healthcare programs Foster leadership among people who use substances Our Experience with Volunteers We have successfully partnered with volunteers in the past in the following ways: Hosting college panels on community led harm reduction Engaging short-term volunteers to support community naloxone distribution and person centred overdose response Collaborating with tech and design students to develop digital health tools, educational materials, and social media content. Involving volunteers in peer support and lived experience advisory groups for new program development. Join us on our mission to empower, innovate, and save lives. Connect with us on LinkedIn , instagram or visit our website to learn how you can get involved!

AI-Powered Harm Reduction Web Tool for Safer Substance Use

The J Healthcare Initiative aims to create a responsive and user-friendly web application that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to deliver personalized harm reduction information and resources. The primary goal is to support individuals who use substances by providing them with evidence-based strategies, risk assessments, and overdose prevention planning. This tool will empower users to make safer decisions by connecting them with local resources and offering tailored advice. The project addresses the critical need for accessible, personalized support in harm reduction, leveraging AI to enhance user experience and effectiveness. By focusing on user-centric design and AI-driven insights, the application will serve as a vital resource for individuals seeking to reduce harm and improve their well-being.

Evidence-Based Drug Information Project

The main goal for the project is to provide evidence-based information to drug users in a readable format, offering scientific facts to help them understand the current landscape of adulterants and how they can implement harm reduction and health promotion to their lives. This will involve several different steps for the learners, including: - Researching and compiling scientific facts and evidence-based information on adulterants and their effects. - Creating a readable format for the public to understand the information. - Developing strategies for implementing harm reduction and health promotion based on the gathered information. - Collaborating with experts and frontline workers to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the information.

Engaging Young Womxn and Mothers in Harm Reduction and Policy Advocacy

The J Healthcare Initiative seeks to meaningfully engage with young womxn and mothers who use unregulated drugs to better understand their needs and challenges. The project aims to create a comprehensive report that outlines the treatment modalities and harm reduction strategies most effective for this demographic. Additionally, the report will explore access to low-barrier employment and housing opportunities. The ultimate goal is to create a political incentive for policymakers to address the growing threats posed by synthetic drugs. This project will provide learners with the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in psychology, public health, social work, and policy advocacy to real-world issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding drug use and harm reduction.