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JFCS making strides with Addiction and Recovery Services

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The Addiction and Recovery Services (ARS) team recently added Jennifer Fukuda as its new coordinator and anticipates a rise in need.

Why did this position appeal to you?

Jennifer: This position is one where my passion, experience, and knowledge blend together beautifully. I have worked in the non-profit sector for several years supporting people experiencing homelessness in many capacities. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), one third of unhoused individuals have alcohol use disorder and/or substance use disorders (SUD). Supporting this community led me to seek growth through education.

I’m currently working towards my master’s at Hazelden Betty Fords Graduate School for Addiction Studies and am learning so much. The ARS position provides me opportunities to support people struggling with addiction and those who have been impacted by a loved one’s addiction. It is very rewarding to use the skills and knowledge I’m learning in school to support people in the Jewish community and beyond.

What are you looking forward to most about working in ARS?

I have already enjoyed offering support and resources to people in our community who have been impacted by addiction. I look forward to building this program so we can support more people, educate our community, and help people heal. SUD has been increasing in the U.S. for decades among both adults and adolescents. Ten years ago, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found 8.1% of individuals 12-years-old and older struggled with a SUD. SAMHSA reported in 2022 that number was up to 17.3%.

The most recent statistics from the CDC indicate that approximately 107,543 people died of overdoses in 2023 throughout the U.S. These statistics point to the need for services like the one JFCS provides through ARS. The services ARS offers can benefit many people by offering non-judgmental support and providing helpful resources for anyone who is feeling the impact of addiction in their life. I look forward to supporting people and increasing awareness of addiction, prevention, and recovery.   

How do you plan to raise awareness and break the stigma around addiction?

I believe the best ways to break the stigma and raise awareness is through advocacy and education. I plan on attending events to show support for people in recovery and look forward to ARS tabling events to spread awareness about our program while networking with like-minded people and agencies. Offering trainings is a great way to help people learn and grow in their awareness. I hope to create and present programs on topics like harm reduction, evidence-based recovery treatment, and how mental health and addiction intersect.

Often, learning more about a topic can help increase understanding, thoughtfulness, and curiosity. I would like to be a part of helping people better understand addiction so those facing it are not met with stereotypes and judgement, but instead receive compassion and empathy.  If you or your organization have a training or consultation need around addiction and recovery, do not hesitate to reach out to me to explore how we can collaborate.

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’m thrilled to be a part of JFCS and the ARS team. This meaningful work brings me joy. Would you like to have a conversation about how we can partner? Could you benefit from support due to the impacts of addiction on yourself or a loved one? I enjoy offering support and making meaningful connections, so please reach out to say hello anytime! I can be reached through email at jfukuda@jfcsmpls.org or by phone at 952-542-4837 and am happy to meet in person as well. I would love to hear from you!

For more information on JFCS’ Addiction and Recovery Services, click here!

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