CAHS Executive Director Jan Laughinghouse, PhD, LCSW-BACS, LAC, CCS, was a featured panelist at the “Soul, Faith, & Justice” faith-based forum, held Nov. 23 at St. Mark United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge.
The event, sponsored by CAHS in partnership with the church and United Women of Faith of Baton Rouge, explored how the faith community plays a key role in social justice relative to substance misuse and addiction.
Other panelists were 19th Judicial District Drug Court Judge Don Johnson; 19th JDC Treatment Director Ilisha Lucas; Solutions for Everybody Founder Patricia Jenkins; and addiction survivors Dameon Hills and Arielle Butler.
Dr. Laughinghouse said the themes of soul, faith, and justice intersect in the recovery journeys of individuals. She said these elements influence societal beliefs, structures, values, and actions.
Dr. Laughinghouse was joined at the event by members of the CAHS Prevention team who provided attendees with information about CAHS’ services, particularly in the areas of mental health and addiction recovery. They also distributed kits of Narcan, the life-saving medication that reverses the effects of overdoses from opioids.
If you, your worship center, or faith-based organization are interested in organizing your own “Recovery Sunday” or faith-based event, please contact our Prevention Team at 225-663-6231.