Partnering for Prevention: Strategies to Effectively and Enthusiastically Engage Stakeholders and Rightsholders
April 27 @ 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Overview
Building effective substance use prevention programs requires strong, enthusiastic partnerships. This interactive session will provide participants with practical strategies to identify, engage, and sustain relationships with key stakeholders and rightsholders across various sectors. Through group discussions of real-world scenarios, participants will explore how to align with stakeholder and rightsholder interests and needs, communicate prevention goals, and foster long-term collaboration. Participants will have the opportunity to troubleshoot barriers to stakeholder and rightsholder engagement they are experiencing in their own prevention programs and within their communities.
About the Presenters
Nicole Valenzuela (she/her) is a licensed social worker deeply committed to community-centered care, emphasizing upstream prevention and advocacy to create lasting positive impact. Her work transcends substance use prevention, adopting a holistic approach to foster well-being across diverse communities. By applying data-driven strategies like the Strategic Prevention Framework, Protective Factors, and trauma-informed practices, Nicole aims to cultivate inclusive, equitable, and resilient environments where all individuals can thrive.
Central to Nicole’s work is building strong, trusting relationships with community members, partners, and stakeholders, ensuring that programs are developed are tailored with and for the community to be served. Her expertise spans program planning, program evaluation, needs assessment, and multi-sector collaboration, enabling her to lead initiatives that generate sustainable, long-term change.
Nicole is also dedicated to fostering the growth of future advocates and prevention professionals. She offers technical assistance, training, and resources, empowering others to advance their knowledge and skills in prevention work. Guided by empathy, effective communication, and deep compassion, Nicole’s approach ensures that individuals and communities alike are equipped not just to overcome their challenges, but to flourish in environments designed for their success. She is passionate about driving meaningful, equitable change that uplifts our communities.
Jason Strickler M.A. (he/him/el) is a Social Entrepreneur and Substance Use Prevention Coordinator from Sylmar, CA, in the San Fernando Valley. Dedicated to social change and youth empowerment, Strickler is the Chair of Rethinking Access to Marijuana (RAM) and a leader in the substance use prevention movement in Los Angeles County. He specializes in coalition coordination, fostering strategic relationships, and designing impactful programs for at-risk populations.
With over a decade of experience across diverse industries, he brings valuable insights into cultivating and sustaining healthy organizational cultures. Strickler earned a Master’s in Social Entrepreneurship and Change from Pepperdine Graduate School of Education and Psychology, where he distinguished himself as a top 3 finalist in the social enterprise fast pitch competition. He also holds a BA in Communication Studies with a minor in Journalism from California State University, Northridge.
In his personal time, Jason enjoys reading, exploring music, tending to plants, and caring for his two beloved cats, Sniffles and Gravy.
Outlook Live 