In the Spotlight
Project Voice WERC
Los Angeles, CA – The Worker Education and Resource Center, Inc. (WERC) addresses shortages in Behavioral Health workers for Los Angeles and Alameda counties with their High Road Training Partnership grant. They have developed a training program for Community Health Workers who specialize as Harm Reduction Specialists. These specialized workers help mitigate the impacts of substance abuse and other risk factors in vulnerable communities by connecting their communities to vital resources.
One component of their project’s work includes developing a Community Health Worker (CHW) – Harm Reduction Specialist training program. WERC partners with L.A. County Harm Reduction Division, community partners, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups to prioritize trauma-informed training. This collaboration ensures the training prioritizes equity in service delivery and employment practices, including culturally responsive training materials, practical role-play opportunities, and bias training delivered through a trauma-informed approach.
Harm Reduction Specialists are needed in the most vulnerable communities. WERC shared, “Harm Reduction Specialists’ work mitigates risks associated with substance abuse, reduces harm, and supports individuals in accessing vital resources. Their contributions to public health, safety, and community well-being should not be overlooked.” WERC continues to build its employer network, advocacy, and education to the Harm Reduction workforce to create resilient communities.
WERC Harm Reduction Specialists have lived experience and reside in the community they serve. It has been critical to the program that trainees have lived experience as it ensures the curriculum remains authentic and relevant.
Terrance White
Harm Reduction Specialist
While incarcerated, WERC graduate Terrance White took the path toward self-improvement and professional development: studying history, economics, and cultures, taking paralegal courses, and rediscovering his passion for writing. Once released, he found a job with WERC partner Homeboy Industries and began his transition back into society.
White knew his current job position was a stepping stone for something greater. Then, he met Rudy Villalobos, Engagement & Recruitment Coordinator at WERC. White was already providing resources to people in his community, but the formal training was exactly what he needed to succeed as a Harm Reduction Specialist.
Using the knowledge gained from the WERC Harm Reduction Specialist training program, White will begin full-time employment with a community-based organization and feels confident in his new path. White continues to advocate for his community and hopes that more Harm Reduction Specialists enter the field, saying that “being in the community and working together with others is how we’ll bring about change.”