Community Assistance & Recovery Initiative
Help Starts Here!
The Community Assistance and Recovery Initiative is designed to support individuals and families experiencing substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders. This program provides access to Narcan, connects individuals to resources, and provides referrals to treatment options, all aimed at helping you or your loved one navigate the path to recovery.
Whether you’re seeking help for yourself, a family member, a friend, a neighbor or a patient, The Community Assistance and Recovery Initiative offers the guidance and support needed to take the next step. We believe in a compassionate, community-centered approach, ensuring you’re not alone on this journey.
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Will County Substance Use Resource Guide
The Will County Substance Use Resource Guide, developed by the Community Assistance and Recovery Initiative, is designed to help individuals, families, and providers quickly find trusted local support. This guide brings together a comprehensive list of services—from emergency and crisis assistance to treatment, recovery, and everyday support—so help is accessible when it’s needed most. Whether you are seeking immediate care, long-term recovery resources, or support for basic needs, this guide serves as a centralized starting point for navigating available resources throughout Will County.
What is Narcan?
Narcan is the brand name for a medication called Naloxone. Naloxone is a medication that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose. As an opioid antagonist, it works by attaching to the same receptors in the brain that opioids use, blocking their effects and helping to restore normal breathing if it has slowed or stopped due to an overdose. However, naloxone only works if opioids are in the person’s system—it has no effect on someone who hasn’t taken opioids and is not a treatment for opioid use disorder. Common opioids include drugs like heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, and morphine.
*National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022, January 11). Naloxone drug facts. National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Who Should Have Narcan?
Anyone who is at risk of an opioid overdose, or who knows someone at risk, should consider obtaining Narcan. This includes individuals who use opioids, their family members, friends, and even healthcare providers. Additionally, Narcan can be invaluable in crowded spaces, such as concerts, festivals, or public transportation, where overdoses can occur unexpectedly.
If you or someone you know needs Narcan, please contact Connie Dewall at 815-724-1404 or cdewall@willcosheriff.org for more information.
Treatment
We’ve partnered with local treatment providers to offer referrals to appropriate care based on your specific needs. Whether you require intensive support or more flexible treatment options, we can connect you with the right resource(s) to start your recovery process.
We recognize that barriers like transportation, or financial challenges can make it difficult to access treatment. Our program can provide support in these areas and offer help in navigating any other obstacles that could prevent you from getting the care you are seeking.
Please contact Connie Dewall at 815-724-1404 or cdewall@willcosheriff.org or fill out the “contact us” form below for more information.
Life After Treatment
Completing a treatment program is a significant achievement, but transitioning back to everyday life can have challenges as you adjust to new routines and responsibilities. The Community Assistance and Recovery Initiative can provide support during this time through referrals and resources.
Support for Sober Living
We can connect you with sober living environments that provide a structured, substance-free space where you can focus on your recovery. These communities may offer peer support and accountability, making it easier to navigate the challenges of recovery.
Assistance with Basic Needs
We also understand that rebuilding your life after treatment may require assistance with basic needs like toiletries or clothing. We can help you access resources and services that can provide support with these needs.
Ongoing Support
Recovery is a lifelong journey, and ongoing support is key to maintaining the progress you’ve made. We can connect you with counseling, support groups, and other resources that will help you continue your growth and stay on track. You don’t have to navigate this transition alone.
Get Help
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