The Hands on Overdose Prevention Education for Students (HOPES) Project

The HOPES Project

The Hands on Overdose Prevention Education for Students (HOPES) Project is an effort sponsored by SAMHSA’s Pacific Southwest ATTC and conducted by Arizona State University. Led by Dr. Natasha Mendoza, the HOPES Project aims to bolster the accessibility and awareness of overdose prevention information and resources within public community colleges throughout HHS Region 9. Recognizing the pressing need for comprehensive substance use disorder treatment and overdose prevention in this region, the HOPES Project collaborates closely with college staff, faculty, and administrators. 

In early 2024, the HOPES research team employed a comprehensive mixed methods approach including a content analysis of all Region 9 (n=158) community college public-facing websites, a structured survey targeting faculty and staff, and interviews with key stakeholders. The findings are directly informing the training and technical assistance provided by the Pacific Southwest ATTC HOPES Project. Additional products, such as a toolkit, will be created in collaboration with Region 9’s community college stakeholders.