Our Journey to Be The Change
Barry County's commitment to prevention, education, and action.
2004-01-01
The Beginning
In 2004, a group of people from Barry County came together to fight a local meth problem. They formed unexpected teams—farmers worked with police officers, school staff, CPS workers, firefighters, and health department employees—all spreading the same message about meth awareness and prevention.
Instead of blaming others, everyone worked together to make a difference. Because of their efforts, over 3,500 residents attended meth awareness training, making a big positive impact in Barry County. The group officially became the Barry County Substance Abuse Task Force (Barry County SATF).
2007-01-01
The Expansion
By 2007, Barry County SATF had grown and expanded its purpose to not only focus on the meth epidemic but also underage drinking, nicotine use, and other substances.
2009-01-01
Drug Free Grant
Barry County SATF applied for and received the prestigious Drug Free Communities Grant — a 10 year grant allowing the task force to continue the good work of education and prevention throughout Barry County, Michigan.
2012-01-01
STOP Act Grant
As drug free education and prevention grew, Barry County SATF applied for and received the STOP Act Grant to prevent and reduce alcohol use among youth aged 12-20 throughout Barry County.
2018-01-01
CARA Grant
Barry County SATF continued to advance their grant writing expertise and were awarded the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) grant. This 4 year federal grant allowed SATF to strengthen prevention initiatives in Barry County and respond to the opioid crisis at a local level.
2023-01-01
Partnership for Success
In response to Barry County SATF's education and prevention initiatives, SAMHSA awarded the task force the Partnership For Success (PFS) grant. Through this grant, Barry County SATF was able to focus on addressing problems like underage drinking, prescription drug misuse, and other emerging drug issues as the happen. Opportunities are given for using data-driven approaches tailored to each community within Barry County.
2024-01-01
Barry County SATF is evolving into "Be The Change," a bold new initiative dedicated to empowering Barry County to take action against substance use. This transformation reflects the group's commitment to inspire positive change, promote healthy choices, and foster a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. By uniting under the "Be The Change" banner, the task force will aim to amplify its impact, engage more voices, and work together to create a safer, healthier Barry County for all.