Community Partnerships
A creative Community Paramedic Program in NC and Broken Chains JC have forged an unconventional yet powerful alliance to support individuals in recovery from substance misuse. Working together, paramedics and bikers create a force for change far greater than any single person or group could achieve alone. Together, they strive to be there for individuals on their journeys to recovery and wellness, creating a commUNITY where hope and healing thrive. Through this collaboration, they initiate Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), integrate harm reduction strategies, conduct HIV testing in the field, address social determinants of health, and improve access to care for those affected by substance use disorder (SUD).
By combining paramedics’ medical expertise and field presence with the bikers’ community ties and lived experience, they create a comprehensive support network that extends far beyond conventional healthcare settings. Community Paramedics provide essential medical care, educate individuals on the health effects of substance use, and explain the benefits of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), while also connecting individuals to necessary treatment services. Meanwhile, bikers, drawing from personal experiences, offer peer support, camaraderie, and a strong sense of belonging. Their shared lived experiences make these bikers credible messengers, providing supportive relationships, valued roles, and hope, while their presence helps reduce stigma around seeking help, especially in communities where first responders may be met with skepticism.
Together, bikers and paramedics break down barriers to care, creating sustainable pathways to long-term recovery. This collaboration not only ensures immediate access to treatment resources but also nurtures an environment of understanding and support that empowers individuals to reclaim their lives. This innovative approach is transforming mental health and substance use support.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The remarkable alliance between Cape Fear Valley’s Community Paramedics and Broken Chains, has allowed BCJC to see the immense potential that exists within our communities and across the nation to uplift, support, and empower one another. In a world often defined by division and discord, this partnership serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illuminating the transformative impact of compassion, and showing people that CHANGE IS POSSIBLE. Together, we are reminded that by extending a hand of kindness, compassion, and understanding, we can create a brighter future for so many. These issues cannot be tackled alone thus making partnerships key. BCJC now focuses on getting outside the church walls and meeting people where they are. In the spirit of "No commUNITY without unity," Broken Chains stands as an alliance of “Hope Dealers,” showing how working together creates a force for change far greater than any single person or group could achieve alone. As members of BCJC, we want to be there for people on their journeys to recovery and wellness, creating a commUNITY where hope and healing thrive.
According to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the agency that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation, commUNITY is built on relationships and social networks that offer support, friendship, love, and hope. Broken Chains is working to create Recovery Support Communities across the nation. By sharing our lived experiences, we become credible messengers, offering individuals a sense of belonging, supportive relationships, valued roles, and camaraderie—proving that change is possible. Our presence reduces the stigma around seeking help, particularly in communities where first responders are viewed with skepticism. We can all work together and break down barriers and create sustainable pathways to long-term recovery in our communities
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