Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health Update: September 24, 2025

Elkins, WV, September 25, 2025: The Regional Task Force on Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health met on September 24, focusing on the critical role of Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS) and announcing plans for a public forum next month. The City of Elkins continues to partner with and support the community organizations that are on the front lines of addressing these complex challenges.

Key Updates from Community Partners:

• Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS): The meeting featured a detailed discussion on the vital work of PRSS professionals—trained individuals who often use their own lived experience with addiction to help others navigate the path to sobriety. RRG Behavioral Health was highlighted as an organization that works with and oversees PRSS in the region. The discussion emphasized the rigorous certification process, which includes training, testing, and service hours.
• Upcoming Public Forum: The Task Force is planning a public forum for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. (tentative). Mayor Marco will moderate this forum; it will feature a panel discussion on topics including guidance on how to effectively help a loved one struggling with addiction and how to end suffering in our community.
• Randolph County Family Resource Network (FRN): They have resource guides available for the public. Its next monthly Community Membership meeting is October 15. The FRN is also helping coordinate a Job Fair at the Tygart Valley Regional Jail on October 7 in partnership with Jobs & Hope.
• Save A Life Day: Today, September 25, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., community members can participate in Narcan training in the morning, with speaker presentations beginning at noon.
• Tyrand Cooperative Ministries: The organization is actively seeking donations to support its community ministries. Contact information is available for those wishing to contribute.

Next Steps:

The Task Force is scheduling its next regular monthly meeting on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the Phil Gainer Community Center. Residents are encouraged to attend both the upcoming public forum and the regular meetings to stay informed and learn about volunteer opportunities.

About the Regional Task Force on Addiction, Homelessness, and Mental Health:

Established in May 2021, this task force brings together local officials, law enforcement, and community organizations to address homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health needs; it meets monthly in Elkins, WV. The Task Force strives to identify gaps in services, coordinate resources, and implement sustainable solutions to these challenges in North Central West Virginia—including identifying peer recovery support specialists (PRSS), safe sober-living spaces, and expanded recovery facilities.