News

Dogwood calls for RFPs on recovery and treatment programs

By Lightning Reports, Published: April 15, 2024

Dogwood Health Trust is seeking proposals from counties, municipalities and nonprofit organizations in the 18 counties and Qualla boundary of Western North Carolina that are interested in conducting collaborative planning to establish, refine and/or resource recovery-oriented justice systems, the trust announced.

Partners who work in the provision of evidence-based practices such as recovery/treatment courts, diversion programs, community-based reentry supports, community behavioral health centers, jail-based SUD treatment programs and other models proven to be effective in supporting successful recovery are encouraged to submit a proposal.

The full RFP will be available on the Dogwood website on May 15. Responses are due by 5 p.m. June 17. Organizations interested in learning more are encouraged to attend a virtual information session webinar at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 1.

“Investing in substance use disorder prevention and recovery is a vital part of Dogwood’s work, and to achieve progress we must also ensure that our partners are prepared and supported in their efforts,” said Dr. Susan Mims, CEO of Dogwood Health Trust. “This initiative can help organizations across our region access connections, knowledge and expertise through a collaborative planning process that creates clear pathways for best practices that address each community’s unique needs.”

Dogwood will provide a maximum of six awards of up to $25,000 each for a year of tailored on-site and remote technical assistance. Grants will fund contracts for provided content-level experts, along with flexible funding to support staff planning time. Dogwood is particularly interested in proposals that focus on new or established collaborations between governmental institutions and community-based providers.

“As our region grapples with the impacts of the opioid epidemic, leaders in healthcare and justice systems recognize the importance of addressing the SUD needs of justice-involved individuals,” said Michael Pesant, Behavioral Health & Substance Use Disorder officer for the health trust. “Dogwood hopes to partner with regional leaders to explore which programs, practices and partnerships promote opportunities for recovery while also maximizing public safety.”

Award notifications will be made by September 15, with funds distributed in October 2024. Registration for the May 1 virtual information session is available by clicking here.. Additional information can be found on Dogwood’s website or by contacting Michael Pesant at m.pesant@dht.org.