Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals

Seeking Nominations: Ron Pritchard Visionary Leadership Award (RPVLA) Do you know an individual who is advancing the field of substance use prevention, treatment, or recovery in powerful, transformative ways? The Ron Pritchard Visionary Leadership Award recognizes a leader whose work embodies innovation, courage, and a deep commitment to service—qualities that defined Ron Pritchard’s incredible legacy. From mentorship to systemic change, Ron was a force in Virginia’s recovery landscape, and this award ensures that his spirit of leadership lives on. We invite you to submit nominations for the 2025 RPVLA. ??? Nomination Deadline: May 1, 2025 ?? Award Presentation: July 22, 2025 at the VSIAS Conference ?? Location: Williamsburg Lodge Conference Center Learn more and nominate: https://lnkd.in/eq53N__6 Let’s celebrate the leaders who are changing lives—and shaping the future of addiction services in Virginia.

Meet Jessica Swan, VAAP’s New President! We’re proud to welcome Jessica Swan, MCJ, MAC, LSATP as the new President of the Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals. A nationally recognized leader in addiction recovery, Jessica brings deep experience in clinical counseling, program development, and training across justice, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors. With a focus on expanding access to education, supporting our diverse membership, and building stronger connections within the field, Jessica is already making an impact. “Our focus is on increasing training opportunities, improving accessibility for members, and fostering a collaborative environment for addiction professionals.” – Jessica Swan Read more about her vision for VAAP and her incredible work in the recovery field: https://lnkd.in/edCSWjJh

VAAP Annual Meeting & Training 2025 – Recap & Highlights! The Virginia Association of Addiction Professionals (VAAP) recently hosted our Annual Meeting & Training at the Richmond Marriott Short Pump, bringing together addiction professionals for a day of education, collaboration, and industry insights. Key Takeaways from the Meeting: Jessica Swan, MCJ, MAC was officially welcomed as VAAP’s new President, sharing her vision for expanding training opportunities and increasing accessibility for members. Members emphasized the need for trainings that bridge clinical work and business operations—a priority VAAP is committed to addressing. The Recovery Ally Training & Train-the-Trainer session empowered professionals with tools to better support individuals in recovery and advocate for improved treatment approaches. VAAP awarded five full scholarships to the Virginia Summer Institute for Addiction Studies (VSIAS 2025), further investing in the development of the addiction recovery workforce. 17 VAAP Community Partners connected with attendees in the Exhibit Hall, fostering collaboration and resource-sharing across the field. As the official conference sponsor for VSIAS 2025, VAAP continues to champion professional training and advocacy for addiction professionals across Virginia. Read the full event recap here: https://lnkd.in/eRAZYbsU What was your biggest takeaway from this year’s meeting? Drop a comment below!?

VAAP Board Retreat: Planning, Progress & a Few Laughs Last week, the VAAP Board came together for our annual Board Retreat, kicking off important discussions about the year ahead. We approved key reports, including the 2025 budget, explored big-picture ideas for growth, and refined policies and procedures to strengthen our processes. A lighthearted card game even brought some laughs as we tackled the work ahead! Today, we shift gears for the Annual Meeting & Training, where VAAP members will participate in Ally Recovery Training, engage in discussions on the future of addiction services, and connect with fellow professionals in the field. Tomorrow, we continue the Board Retreat, diving deeper into strategic priorities and shaping the next phase of VAAP’s work. Big things ahead for VAAP in 2025—stay tuned!

We were thrilled to have FAIRFAX FALLS CHURCH COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARD at the VAAP Annual Meeting and Training! Thank you for being part of this important event for addiction professionals and recovery leaders!

VAAP Advocacy Update: A recent article from The Parham Papers reports that Virginia's recovery housing bill has unanimously passed the state Senate and cleared its first House subcommittee. The bill mandates state certification for all recovery residences and proposes a workgroup to refine the certification process. Notably, the Virginia Association of Recovery Residences (VARR) has expressed concerns about funding and oversight transitions. The bill now moves to the House Appropriations Committee for further consideration. Read more:

?? VAAP Annual Meeting & Training – Register Now! ?? Seats are filling fast! Don’t miss out on the 2025 VAAP Annual Meeting & Training—a must-attend event for Virginia’s addiction professionals. ?? Date: March 14, 2025 ?? New Location: Richmond Marriott Short Pump ?? Earn 6 CE Credits ?? Connect with professionals & organizations in your field This year’s featured training: Recovery Ally Training & Train-the-Trainer with Tom Bannard, CADC, CPRSS-T, MBA & Rev. Jan Brown—an essential session for those dedicated to strengthening recovery support networks in their communities. ?? Seats are selling out quickly—secure your spot today! ?? Register now: https://lnkd.in/ebWfThng

Last week brought major legislative progress in Virginia as several key bills impacting recovery, public health, and criminal justice reform advanced through the General Assembly. As these efforts move forward, your voice is more important than ever in shaping policies that support individuals in recovery and reduce barriers to treatment. Key Legislative Wins & Progress Expanding Naloxone Access?–?HB1637 & SB1035 These bills expand access to opioid antagonists like naloxone by increasing the number of people authorized to dispense and administer them. Both have passed with unanimous support! Strengthening Controlled Substance Laws?–?SB888 This bill enhances laws regarding the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of controlled substances, passing the Senate 22-0. Transparency in Correctional Facilities?–?SB770 This legislation requires reviews of inmate deaths, including those related to substance use disorder (SUD), to improve oversight and pave the way for future reforms. Safe Storage of Prescription Drugs in Schools?–?HB1678 A key step in establishing recovery high schools, this bill sets stronger safety measures for storing prescription medications in school settings. What’s Next? Upcoming Votes Fines & Fees Reform?–?HB1665 This bill seeks to reduce excessive court costs for individuals charged with drug-related offenses. It will be heard in the next Senate Courts of Justice meeting. Barrier Crimes Reform?–?HB1877 This legislation, which aims to remove barriers for individuals with past convictions seeking employment in recovery services, has passed the Senate Education Subcommittee on Health Professions. Expanding Mobile Opioid Treatment?–?SB841 This bill would increase access to opioid treatment programs by allowing mobile health units to deliver care where it’s needed most. It is currently awaiting committee assignment. How You Can Take Action Call Your Legislators?– Encourage them to support bills that expand recovery services and reduce barriers for individuals impacted by addiction. Spread the Word?– Share this update with your networks to raise awareness and mobilize more advocates for these critical policies. Stay Engaged?– Follow VAAP on social media for?updates?and opportunities to take action. Your advocacy makes a difference. Together, we are building a stronger, more recovery-friendly Virginia.

Attention VAAP Community Partners: Showcase your organization at the?2025 Annual Meeting & Training! This opportunity is complimentary for Community Partners in good standing. Exhibitor Registration form: https://lnkd.in/eDpGFyqJ What: Recovery Ally Training & Train-the-Trainer Where: Richmond Marriott Short Pump When: March 14, 2025 Exhibit: Highlight your programs and services to a dynamic audience of Community Partners and VAAP Individual Members. Network: Connect with like-minded professionals and advocates in the field of addiction and recovery. Learn: Participate in Recovery Ally Training & Train-the-Trainer sessions led by experts in the field. Included as part of your Community Partnership: one complimentary exhibit table and registration, lunch with attendees, and access to six CE hours of impactful training. We look forward to seeing you in Richmond for this impactful day of learning, connection, and advocacy!

The VAAP Winter Academy is underway! A warm welcome to all attendees and sponsors joining us for this important ASAM Criteria Training. Thank you for your commitment to enhancing addiction care. We look forward to a productive and inspiring session! A special thank you to Event Sponsor Mount Regis Center, and Break Sponsors: Mainspring Recovery, Youth For Tomorrow, Conscious Healing and Life Center of Galax for making the event possible!