City of Lowell’s Post-Overdose Outreach Youth Services

The City of Lowell’s Community Opioid Outreach Program (CO-OP)’s new Youth Outreach Specialist reduces the impact of the opioid crisis on Lowell’s youth and their families. The Youth Outreach Specialist honors this mission by educating the community on substance use and resources, building community partnerships, and providing case management for youth and families in the city. These youth services aim to strengthen families with individualized program referrals, as well as empower youth to make healthy and safe decisions in their daily lives.

Due to adolescent brain development, youth under 25 are more vulnerable to addiction when they use drugs or alcohol. The Youth Outreach Specialist educates community members and local agencies on the unique dangers associated with youth substance use. With this information, youth can make informed decisions in their daily lives that protect them from developing a substance use disorder.

The Lowell CO-OP does not believe in a “one-size fits all” approach. Like any individual in need of help, youth benefit most from programming that fits their unique needs. The Youth Outreach Specialist builds tight-knit connections between youth serving agencies in Lowell to ensure youth and families who have been impacted by the opioid crisis have the right team of providers developing their care plan.

Recovery is a lifelong journey. Helping youth and families access the most appropriate resources to address their needs can take time. The Youth Outreach Specialist – as well as the whole Lowell CO-OP team – work with individuals for as long as it takes to ensure that they access services ideal for their health and wellbeing.

To learn more about Lowell CO-OP’s youth services, schedule an educational presentation, make a referral, or request promotional materials, please contact Devin Gilmore, Youth Outreach Specialist, at dgilmore@lowellma.gov or (978) 866-2193. Feel free to download and share the above image on social media!