Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP)

Our Purpose

The Opioid Education & Prevention (OEP) program supports individuals and families affected by opioid use by providing overdose follow-up, education on prevention and treatment, and pathways to recovery. Through a peer-led, trauma-informed approach, OEP connects people to treatment, distributes naloxone to prevent future overdoses, and helps break cycles of addiction by addressing both immediate needs and long-term stability.

The program partners with Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), ACS Behavioral Health Responders, and local organizations to reach individuals at critical moments—often right after an overdose—when they may be most open to support. Whether offering a ride to treatment, checking in during early recovery, or providing resources to families, OEP ensures that no one has to navigate addiction alone.

Our Approach

OEP’s peer-led, trauma-informed model meets people where they are—after an overdose, during a crisis, or when they’re ready for change. Our teams include people who have lived through similar experiences who offer nonjudgmental support, harm reduction resources, and pathways to recovery.

Reaching People When It Matters Most

The Golden Opportunity model is a coordinated effort between Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR), EMS, ACS Field Response, and the ACS OEP team. Following an AFR-administered Narcan reversal, ACS field and OEP teams receive a direct referral to promptly reach out and coordinate care by offering support and immediate connection to treatment services.

OEP plays a vital role in providing timely, quality support to communities affected by high rates of overdose. By reducing emergency room transports, OEP peers can connect survivors directly to detox and substance use treatment, offering immediate guidance and care.

Once engaged, OEP peer support workers guide survivors of overdose and their families through the journey of recovery-providing harm reduction services, connecting to treatment, and fostering long-term stability and recovery.

What Peer-Led Support Looks Like

Peers help survivors of overdose access ongoing care and offer continued follow-up after discharge. Individuals are offered personalized, judgement-free support, which may include:

• Safety planning and crisis stabilization support
• Help with Crime Victims Reparation Commission (CVRC) applications for lost wages and funeral costs
• Peer mentorship and follow-up care
• Referrals to therapy and counseling
• Connections to long-term supportive services in the community
• Job readiness and employment support
• Education support, including GED, college, and trade programs
• NARCAN access and training
• Transitional Housing referrals
• Detox, treatment, and support group connections
• Food boxes
• Assistance with benefit applications:
  • Medicaid
  • SNAP/EBT
  • TANF
  • SSI and SSDI
  • LIHEAP: utility assistance

Need Support?

If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, we’re here to help.

Call: 505-768-4818

Email: [email protected]