Empowering The Community: Overdose Prevention Committee Brings Hands-On Overdose Prevention And Fentanyl Safety Training To STARS Behavioral Health

Written by Esmeralda Menjivar, OMS-II, OPC Community Outreach Sub-Chair

On August 8, 2026, the California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine (CHSU-COM) Overdose Prevention Committee (OPC) partnered with STARS Behavioral Health Services in Fresno to deliver an interactive opioid overdose prevention and naloxone training workshop. STARS supports children, adolescents, and adults experiencing behavioral health challenges and substance use disorders across Fresno, Stanislaus, and Merced counties.

The community outreach training was co-led by OPC Community Outreach Sub-Chair Esmeralda Menjivar and Internal Education Sub-Chair Denna Hadipour. Together, they presented to STARS staff and clients, highlighting rising opioid overdose rates in the Central Valley and emphasizing the importance of community-based overdose prevention and early intervention.

The workshop focused on recognizing the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, understanding the risks of fentanyl and drug lacing, and properly using fentanyl test strips as a vital preventative tool. OPC members also guided attendees through hands-on emergency response training, allowing participants to practice overdose response protocols and learn how to properly administer intranasal naloxone (Narcan), step-by-step.

Marking an important milestone for the committee, the event featured the official debut of OPC’s new pocket reference cards, designed by Denna Hadipour. These portable opioid overdose response guides provide step-by-step instructions for administering intranasal naloxone (Narcan), along with key contact information and Central Valley overdose prevention resources.

The Central Valley continues to face significant challenges related to the opioid crisis, making accessible, judgment-free substance use education and naloxone (Narcan) training essential. By equipping behavioral health providers, clients, and community members with practical tools and lifesaving knowledge, the CHSU Overdose Prevention Committee remains committed to connecting medical education with the health needs of local communities.

Following the success of the workshop, STARS invited OPC to return for recurring training sessions every two months. These workshops will help new STARS residents and staff strengthen their opioid overdose response skills and contribute to building a safer, healthier Central Valley.

To obtain an OPC pocket reference card or participate in an upcoming opioid overdose prevention event, contact SOMA-OPC at soma-opc@chsu.edu. Follow @CHSU_OPC on Instagram for updates or read more about the CHSU Overdose Prevention Committee and its student led community outreach efforts.