Training, Support, and Learning

Helping people overcome substance use challenges, restore dignity, and rediscover hope.

Art as Healing

The heart of our organization is art. Yaya always had a pencil, paintbrush, or tattoo tool in her hand. Art was her therapy, her healthy escape, and her way of expressing her feelings when she could not find the right words. The importance of her art was not only in the success she was beginning to achieve but, more importantly, in how it helped her through her most challenging moments. We honor Yaya’s legacy through her art and share the healing it brought her.

We currently offer two Art as Healing programs created in collaboration with local artists. These programs provide unique, fun, and healing experiences for people in recovery, their families, and people navigating substance use challenges.

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Narcan Overdose Prevention & Distribution

In the fight against stigma, knowledge is power. Our Narcan Overdose Prevention & Distribution Training gives you the skills needed to recognize and respond to an opioid overdose. You will learn how to administer Narcan, a life-saving medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, along with practical ways to help prevent overdoses.

Click here to schedule free individual or group training.

Recovery Ally Triaining

Become a trusted source of support for people on their recovery journey. Our Recovery Ally Training teaches you how to provide compassionate and helpful support to people navigating substance use challenges and recovery. You will learn how to build trust, offer encouragement, and approach difficult conversations so you can help create a safe and supportive environment for people seeking recovery.

Family & Individual Recovery Group

We understand that the path to recovery is not only about the person healing. Our Family & Individual Recovery Support services provide guidance and support to people seeking recovery and to those who love them. Through one-on-one peer support, group support sessions, educational resources, and referral assistance, we empower individuals and families to face the challenges of substance use and recovery while creating a supportive space for healing.

Harm Reduction Basic Training

Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to support infectious disease prevention and education in your community. Our Basic Training introduces the core principles and strategies behind this work. You will learn why reducing the negative physical and mental health effects linked to substance use is important. You will also learn about health and safety practices, overdose prevention, and how this work helps protect public health.

Anti-Stigma 101

Stigma is a negative attitude or belief placed on a person or group. It can lead to discrimination, unfair treatment, and social isolation. Stigma may be based on a person’s race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, mental health, or substance use. It can deeply affect a person’s life, making it harder to ask for help, find employment, and maintain healthy relationships. It can also lead to shame, isolation, and hopelessness.

Yaya Por Vida is committed to fighting stigma and promoting understanding and compassion. We believe every person deserves dignity and respect, regardless of their background or experiences.

Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder & STD Referral Navation

Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental well-being allows people to understand their abilities, manage the normal stresses of life, work in healthy and productive ways, and contribute to their communities. Mental health challenges are common. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the United States experiences a mental illness each year.

Yaya Por Vida provides referral navigation for a variety of mental health and substance use disorder services, including counseling, psychiatry, crisis intervention, crisis support, and inpatient treatment. We are committed to helping people connect with the care and support they need to achieve and maintain mental well-being.

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Dance (Rave) Safety

Dance parties, clubs, bars, and raves can be fun, but it is important to take steps to protect your health and safety.

Plan ahead. Know where you are going and who you are going with. Tell someone you trust about your plans and when you expect to return.
Drink water and eat before, during, and after the event to help you stay alert and avoid dehydration.
Limit alcohol consumption so you can maintain good judgment.
Stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and remain close to your friends.
Do not accept drinks, other items, or cigarettes from strangers.
If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, leave immediately and contact someone you trust.