Setting a Precedent for Substance Abuse Services Starts in Oklahoma

TULSA, OK ? The Oklahoma Substance Abuse Services Alliance (OSASA) has a new President for the 2002-2003 fiscal year. 

June Ross, the Executive Director for 12 & 12 drug and alcohol rehabilitation center in Tulsa, officially took the over the position July 12th at the yearly OSASA retreat, held this year at the Lake Texoma State Park and Resort. 

Other Executives for the organization include President-Elect Sallie McLaughlin from Gateway to Prevention and Recovery in Shawnee, Vice President Luke Catton from Narconon Arrowhead in Canadian, Secretary James Patterson from Specialized Outpatient Services in Oklahoma City and Treasurer Dorthea Whitten from Kiamichi Council on Alcoholism and Other Drug Abuse, Inc. in Idabel. 

Other members of the Executive Committee include past Presidents Paul Hackler from The Oaks Behavioral Health in McAlester, Dan McCullough from Drug Recovery, Inc. in Oklahoma City and Kyle McGraw who is now the Director of Substance Abuse Services for the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.

OSASA is recognized as the leading advocate for increased availability ofquality substance abuse and treatment services.  The organization is united in efforts to improve systems and impact policy in Oklahoma through common concern and goals.  

We empower our members to help change lives, impact communities and offer individuals and families freedom from suffering.  OSASA is currently a 42-member alliance comprised of non-profit substance abuse treatment, mental health agencies, prevention agencies and private citizens.  OSASA strives to create a statewide network of agencies and to increase public funding for substance abuse treatment and prevention.

As dedicated groups and individuals, OSASA members set out to overcome the number one social problem in Oklahoma, drugs.  To find out more information about OSASA or to find a treatment or prevention program in your area, visit www.oksasa.net/.

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