Waseca County awards opioid grants

Waseca County is proud to announce the recipients of the first round of funding from its Opioid Settlement Grant Program. The grants, totaling nearly $30,000, will support local efforts focused on prevention, recovery, and intervention related to opioid misuse and substance use disorders.

 

The first round of grants includes the following awardees:

 

Janesville Waldorf Pemberton (JWP) High School – Hope Squad for Healthy Choices - $15,800

 

JWP High School will launch a peer-led Hope Squad for grades 9–12 using the evidence-informed Hope Squad Curriculum to promote mental health, resilience, and substance misuse prevention. The program aims to increase awareness, strengthen coping skills, encourage help-seeking, and foster a connected school culture that supports healthy decision-making and early intervention.

 

Waseca County Community Corrections – Rehabilitative Support for Youth on Probation or Diversion (RESET) Program – $10,500

 

The RESET Program, offered by Fernbrook Family Resource Center, provides a 12-week, evidence-based counseling curriculum for youth on probation or diversion. Using Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, it builds decision-making, coping, and accountability skills while addressing individual needs. The program helps reduce vulnerability to substance use and supports lasting behavioral change and community reintegration.

 

Waseca County Recovery Events – $3,000

 

Monthly pro-social events in Waseca County will bring together individuals in recovery and their sober supports for activities like bowling, bingo, and volleyball. Grant funds will cover event costs and support a mentorship program that empowers participants to guide others in recovery, strengthening community connection, accountability, and long-term sobriety.