Proactively Implementing Cultural Responsivity in Primary Prevention
March 19 @ 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Enhancing Prevention Efforts:
Prevention Application Community of Practice
Overview:
Prevention Application Community of Practice spaces will support the continuing education of prevention professionals in a manner that is engaging, focused on skill building, dynamic, and in line with statewide goals. Together we will “unpack” what has been learned in professional competency training events, thus supporting the application of skills and development of sector partnerships and networking. Prevention Application spaces are intended to be a collective learning space with reflection opportunities for participants.
March Topic
This community of practice space focuses on proactively implementing cultural responsivity in primary prevention efforts. Participants will gain insights into the importance of cultural responsiveness and awareness in prevention work, particularly in addressing diverse community needs. When addressing an upstream approach to prevention, cultural responsivity is the foundation and through practical strategies and local examples, participants will learn how to embed cultural responsivity into program design, implementation, and evaluation. Key topics include recognizing cultural nuances, building trust with diverse communities, and fostering inclusive practices. By prioritizing cultural responsivity, attendees will be better equipped to create more effective and equitable prevention initiatives that resonate with and positively impact diverse populations.
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are not eligible for the Prevention Pathways Community of Practice sessions. If you have any questions, please reach out to ABHPCinfo@cars-rp.org.
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.
Paul Raymond Wolf Steele (he/him), is an individual with a rich and diverse background rooted in the Chiricahua Apache, Chicano, Jewish, and German communities. From a young age, Paul has actively assisted his mother in various training endeavors, from tribal work to school assemblies. As he matured, Paul continued his involvement in training, even leading his own vaping prevention sessions on Native American reservations. Beyond his training experience, Paul boasts a background in engineering and construction, dedicating countless hours to constructing small homes for homeless veterans. Holding the esteemed title of Seventh Generation Advisor for the Chicahua Apache Nation, Paul is driven by a primary goal—to make a positive impact in prevention work. Inspired by the mentors who guided him, he is resolute in his commitment to paying it forward throughout his lifetime.
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