Subject: DC Engage Drug User Health Conference
We Heal Different: Every Interaction Is an Intervention™ — The HEAL Framework™ for Building Trust, Psychological Safety, and Healing-Centered Engagement
This session explores how everyday interactions can influence trust, engagement, and well-being among people who use drugs. Participants will explore trauma-informed approaches and practical strategies for creating psychologically safe environments, strengthening relationships, and delivering more supportive, person-centered services across diverse settings.
Culturally Responsive Methods of Engagement for Diverse Populations at Risk of Overdose
This breakout session focuses on culturally responsive approaches to building trust, reducing barriers to care, and fostering meaningful connections with individuals across diverse populations. Participants will examine practical outreach strategies, communication techniques, and inclusive practices that support equitable, person-centered overdose prevention and drug user health services.
What Are We Not Talking About? What Do We Need to Know?: A Conversation with DC Health
This opening plenary will provide attendees with updates from DC Health HAHSTA on emerging priorities, programmatic changes, and the evolving landscape of drug user health in Washington, DC. Topics include enhancements to peer educator initiatives, new approaches to drug user health services, the development of a dedicated street medicine team, and the intersection of substance use and mental health.
From Trusted Presence to Community-Designed Programming: A Faith-Rooted Model for Advancing Drug User Health in Washington, DC
This breakout session explores community-driven approaches to drug user health and response activities that address stigma, expand access to harm reduction and recovery resources, and strengthen connections to care. The presenter will share lessons learned from building a multigenerational, faith-rooted continuum of prevention, education, service navigation, and support in communities impacted by health disparities.
Two Lives, One Journey: Pregnancy and Substance Use
This breakout session focuses on the complex intersections of pregnancy and substance use. Participants will explore best practices for providing nonjudgmental, trauma-informed care, reducing stigma, and connecting individuals to appropriate treatment and supportive services. Participants will gain practical strategies to foster trust, improve maternal and infant health outcomes, and support families through a harm reduction lens.
Vision to Impact: DC Engage Micrograntees in Action
This session provides an in-depth exploration of how the 2026 DC Engage’s micrograntees are advancing drug user health, improving health outcomes, and strengthening communities across the District. During this showcase, funded organizations will highlight their programs, share lessons learned, and discuss the real-world impact of their work.
Substance Use, Survival, and Control: Rethinking Culturally Responsive Care for Trafficked and Exploited Youth
This breakout session explores the complex relationship between substance use, exploitation, and survival among trafficked and exploited youth. Participants will examine culturally responsive, trauma-informed approaches that recognize the unique experiences of young people while reducing stigma and strengthening engagement. Practical strategies for fostering trust, improving service delivery, and supporting long-term recovery and resilience will be shared.
Transforming Pleasure and Wellness: Party Culture and Harm Reduction
This panel discussion explores the intersection of pleasure, party culture, and harm reduction. Panelists will share insights on fostering wellness, promoting safety, and addressing substance use in social settings, emphasizing inclusive, judgment-free strategies to support informed and empowered choices.
Engaging and Healing: A Trauma Informed Approach
This session provides an in-depth exploration of trauma-informed care, emphasizing the importance of recognizing trauma’s pervasive impact and integrating responsive practices. Participants will gain insights into fostering trust, promoting safety, and empowering individuals through culturally sensitive, evidence-based approaches that prioritize healing and resilience.
Grace in Action: Faith-Led Harm Reduction Strategies
This session explores the role of faith communities in advancing harm reduction principles. It highlights compassionate, inclusive approaches rooted in faith-based values to support individuals on their journey toward healing and wellness, fostering trust, dignity, and meaningful engagement within spiritual contexts.