Advancing Strategies for Families Impacted by Substance Use Disorder

The Administration for Children and Families is a division of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services that promotes the economic and social well-being of families, children, youth, individuals, and communities with funding, strategic partnerships, guidance, training, and technical assistance.  From June 2022 through May 2023, Bloomberg Associate Professor of American Health Dr. Terrineka Powell joined the Administration part-time. Her work was to develop and operationalize a cross-cutting strategy to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families affected by substance use disorders and their related challenges.  

Dr. Powell contributed to a “Dear Colleague” letter about the impact of parent and caregiver loss, a blog about federal resources to support families experiencing caregiver loss due to overdose, COVID-19, homicide, and suicide, and a brief on harm reduction among young adults experiencing homelessness. Additionally, she reviewed and provided feedback on metrics for monitoring recovery and harm reduction efforts, and compensation and landscape surveys. Dr. Powell also met with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and the Family and Youth Services Bureau to discuss harm reduction strategies with the goal of strengthening relationships as well as increasing coordination and information sharing. Finally, Dr. Powell provided consultation on a strategy and work plan to embed the voices of youth and people with lived experiences into agencies of the Administration for Children and Families. 

By focusing on equitable, data-driven strategies, Dr. Powell contributed to efforts to improve outcomes for children, youth, and families impacted by substance use disorder and overdose.  

The Bloomberg American Health Initiative provides funding to support faculty details at federal agencies. Through this program, faculty work for the federal government in their areas of expertise.