The opioid epidemic continues to impact families across Washington, Waukesha, Sheboygan, and Dodge counties. It affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels. While progress is being made, the fight is far from over. The opioid epidemic affects people from all walks of life — students, parents, professionals, and retirees. But you can help. Whether by spreading awareness, volunteering, or supporting those in recovery, every effort makes a difference.
How You Can Take Action
Learn & Share Information
Understanding addiction is the first step in fighting the opioid crisis. Education helps reduce stigma and encourages those struggling to seek help.
Talk about it. Open, honest conversations with family and friends can break down misconceptions about opioid addiction.
Share trusted resources. Use social media to spread awareness — ElevateYou.org provides essential prevention and treatment information.
Attend community events. Local forums and education programs help you stay informed and connect with others working toward a solution.
Support Prevention Programs
Preventing opioid addiction before it starts is key. Schools, healthcare providers, and local organizations offer education on the risks of opioid misuse, but they need support.
Advocate for school-based prevention programs. Encourage local schools to implement evidence-based drug education.
Volunteer at educational events. Help organize or participate in opioid prevention programs for students and families.
Donate to prevention-focused organizations. Even small contributions help fund essential education and outreach initiatives.
Volunteer Your Time
You don’t need special skills — just a willingness to help. Many organizations rely on volunteers to support prevention, education, and recovery efforts.
Assist at recovery and outreach events. A friendly face at a community event can provide comfort and encouragement.
Help behind the scenes. Support with office tasks, fundraising, or event planning keeps programs running.
Become a mentor. Providing guidance to someone in recovery can be life-changing for both of you.
Dispose of Medications Safely
Prescription opioids, even when legally prescribed, can be dangerous if misused. Proper disposal prevents them from falling into the wrong hands.
Use a drug take-back site. Many pharmacies and law enforcement agencies offer safe disposal locations.
Ask your pharmacy for a disposal bag. Some provide special bags that neutralize medications.
Encourage others to dispose responsibly. Spreading awareness about safe disposal helps prevent misuse in your community.
Support People in Recovery
Recovery is a long journey, and support from family, friends, and the community makes a huge difference.
Offer encouragement. A kind word or a listening ear can be incredibly uplifting.
Be non-judgmental. Addiction is a disease, not a choice—showing empathy helps reduce stigma.
Support businesses that hire individuals in recovery. Employment provides stability and a fresh start.
Local Resources That Can Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, housing insecurity, or mental health challenges, these local resources can provide assistance:
Washington County
Crisis Services: Adult Care Services – 262-365-6565
Housing Assistance: Family Promise Housing Hotline – 262-334-4913, Housing Authority – 262-338-0771
Medical Care: Lakeshore Community Health Care – 262-363-9143
Domestic Violence Support: Friends, Inc. – 262-334-7298
Mental Health Resources: ChangeTheEnd.com, Aging and Disability Resource Center – 262-335-4497
Sheboygan County
Crisis Services: Family Services – 920-459-3151
Walk-in Crisis Center: (Open 8 a.m.-9 p.m., 7 days a week) – 1426 N. 5th St., Sheboygan
Housing Assistance: Salvation Army – 920-458-3723, Housing Authority – 920-459-3466, Lakeshore CAP, Inc. – 920-803-6991
Domestic Violence Support: Safe Harbor – 920-452-7640
Medical Care: Lakeshore Clinic – 920-783-6633
Aging & Disability Support: Aging and Disability Resource Center – 920-467-4100
Dodge County
Crisis Services: Dodge – 920-386-4094, Green Lake – 920-294-4070, Fond du Lac – 920-929-3535, Northwest Connections (Columbia, Dodge, Marquette, Green Lake) – 888-552-6642
Housing Assistance: Central WI Community Action Council Inc. – 920-885-9559
Domestic Violence Support: PAVE – 920-887-3810
Mental Health Resources: Aging and Disability Resource Center – 920-386-3580
Substance Use Disorder Resources: Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous – 608-222-8989 or 414-771-9119
Transportation for Medical Appointments: Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) – 866-907-1493
Be Part of the Solution
The opioid crisis is a public health emergency that affects entire communities — but we can make a difference. Whether by volunteering, raising awareness, or simply offering support, every action counts.
If you’re ready to take action, visit www.ElevateYou.org to explore volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and ways to support people battling addiction.
Together, we can save lives and build a healthier, safer future.
