Information courtesy of Douglas County
In 2021, Colorado joined a national settlement with opioid manufacturers and distributors for their role in fueling the opioid epidemic. The Douglas County Opioid Council oversees local funding received through the settlement, managing resources for programs that address opioid use and substance use disorder.
These funds must be used for state-approved purposes focused on reducing harm and supporting individuals, families, and the broader community, such as prevention and education, harm reduction, treatment, recovery services, and criminal justice services.
To help ensure allocated funds reflect the community’s most pressing needs, the Council is asking residents to complete a short prioritization survey. Community feedback will directly inform future funding decisions and program investments.
Residents are encouraged to take the survey by March 9 to help shape the future of opioid response efforts in Douglas County: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H7GWHBM
About previous funding awards
The Douglas County Opioid Council has awarded more than $1.7 million in opioid settlement funding to support prevention, treatment, recovery, and education programs across the community.
In 2024, approximately $1.1 million was distributed to seven organizations and initiatives, including AllHealth Network, HardBeauty Foundation, Douglas County School District, and others, to expand peer support, youth prevention, transportation, case management, and public awareness efforts.
In 2025, an additional $667,000 was awarded to HardBeauty and Valley Hope of Parker to strengthen peer recovery support and assist individuals entering sober living environments. Together, these investments reflect the County’s ongoing commitment to addressing substance use and expanding access to recovery resources for residents.