We’re building a community empowered by prevention and transformed by recovery
Lasting change happens in communities when people have access to knowledge, resources, and hope. Through free workshops, events, and initiatives like Rethinking Wellness, we equip individuals with the tools to make healthier choices. And when addiction takes hold, we guide those in need toward recovery programs so they have the opportunity to heal, rebuild, and thrive.
Our History
Recognizing the Crisis
In 2015, Bartholomew County’s Community Health Needs Assessment identified substance misuse as the county’s most urgent health issue. Columbus Regional Health’s Healthy Communities Initiative responded by forming a Mental Health and Substance Abuse Action Team and hosting an Opioid Summit in 2016. Leaders from across sectors — healthcare, schools, courts, law enforcement, social services, and local government — agreed that only a comprehensive, community-wide approach could address the crisis.
Building a Community Response
In 2017, a leadership team was formed to guide an “all-in” strategy. Four cornerstones — prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery — became the framework for action. With startup funding from Columbus Regional Health and the CRH Foundation, the Alliance for Substance Abuse Progress (ASAP) was launched. Leaders across systems stepped into key roles, driving efforts with the urgency of a public health crisis.
Establishing lasting change
By late 2018, ASAP became incorporated as a nonprofit, allowing access to diverse funding sources, including city, county, state, and federal support. Local officials established a Substance Abuse Public Funding process, ensuring resources were invested in evidence-based, high-impact programs. To connect residents and providers directly to services, the ASAP Hub was created as a central point for prevention and recovery information.
Collaboration
at the core
We convene partners across healthcare, government, law enforcement, schools, nonprofits, businesses, and the faith community. Together, we identify service gaps, reduce duplication, and align efforts toward shared goals. This collaborative model ensures that every resource is used effectively — and that progress is measured not just by individual outcomes, but by the health of the whole community.
Our Impact
Building Stronger Systems
By identifying service gaps, prioritizing evidence-based programs, and guiding public funding, we’ve ensured that resources go where they make the greatest impact. The result is a stronger, more connected network of prevention, treatment, and recovery services.
Empowering the Community
Through initiatives like Rethinking Wellness, ASAP offers free prevention workshops, wellness challenges, and community events that promote healthier choices. These efforts not only reduce the risks of substance misuse but also build a culture of wellness where residents support one another in making positive changes.
Supporting Recovery Journeys
The ASAP Hub has become a lifeline for individuals and families. By serving as a central point of connection, the Hub links people to treatment options, recovery meetings, and resource directories — ensuring that help is accessible, stigma is reduced, and recovery remains possible for all.
Board of Directors
Megan Cherry
Executive Director
Sherri Jewett
Grants Development Specialist
Mark Stewart
United Way
Judge Kelly Benjamin
Bartholomew County Circuit Court Judge
Agresta
Storms & O’Leary, PC
Julie Abedian
Columbus Regional Health
Pastor David Bosley
Dayspring Church
Jennifer Fillmore
Centerstone
Cindy Frey
Columbus Chamber of Commerce
Jeff Jones
Community Member
Chris Lane
Bartholomew County Sheriff
Mayor Mary Ferdon
City of Columbus
Commissioner Carl Lienhoop
Bartholomew County Commissioner
Lisa Pein
Lifeworks
Dr. Jim Roberts
BCSC
Staff
Tina Snider
Strategic Planning & Outreach Coordinator
Janae Garner-Kelley
Prevention Coordinator
Cynthia Ruiz
Certified Recovery Coach
Kyle Strong
Peer Recovery Coach (CPRC)
Jodie LASTNAME
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Get in Touch
Have questions about prevention, recovery, treatment, or just need someone to talk to? Reach out to us by phone or e-mail to speak to a member of our team!
