News & Events
Much of our work involves measuring the difference others make. Getting involved and making our own difference is also an important part of who we are as individuals and as an organization.
To our partners, community members, and friends,
As we mark our 15th year, it is with great joy and appreciation for all of you!
Reflecting on our journey since 2009, all of us at the Center for Community Research (CCR) are humbled by the incredible people we work with.
Our Journey
CCR was founded to bridge the gap between community needs and evidence-based solutions. From a small but ambitious start, we have grown substantially, not just in numbers but also within the breadth and depth of our reach.
Our work began and continues throughout San Diego County, and our impact spans nationally now as well. Our incredible and talented team utilizes informed strategy, useful data, and lived experiences to save lives and prevent impacts associated with substance use, impaired driving, and community health issues.
Our staff have been recognized at the local, state, and national levels – not as a testament to our own achievements, but as evidence of the change that can occur when committed professionals and passionate communities unite.
Honoring Our Partners
Our success is not a solo endeavor. It has been built on the trust, collaboration, and vision we share with our partners. More than just funders or stakeholders, you have been collaborators in the truest sense. Your unwavering dedication to fostering safe and healthy communities has consistently inspired us. The partnerships we have nurtured over the years have been instrumental in achieving our shared goals, and for that, we are tremendously grateful.
Looking Ahead
As we commemorate this milestone, it’s also an opportunity to look ahead. While celebrating our collective achievements, our eyes are firmly set on the future, ensuring that we continue to be at the forefront of facilitating positive change. Committed to excellence and progress, we aim to continually refine our offerings to meet the dynamic needs of our communities and partners.
Together, we will continue our collective journey towards building even more vibrant, inclusive, healthy, and safe communities.
With profound gratitude,
Kristen Donovan, Ph.D.
Founder & Executive Director
For the past 15 years, it has been an honor to serve San Diego County and work with such committed and incredible partners. We thank the County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency and all of our partners in prevention, behavioral health, public health, education, treatment, child welfare, and public safety for the opportunity to have made a difference in the lives of so many of our community members.
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The CCR Team
Launched in 2006, National Methamphetamine Awareness Day is observed annually on Nov. 30 as part of an effort to educate the public about the effects and dangers of methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is one of the most common illicit drugs used in the United States and worldwide, and its use is spreading.
For more information click here.
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From our partners at TREDS
Just Drive -Take Action Against Distraction (Distraction Zone!) is a 45-minute online course that covers everything you need to know about distracted driving. It’s appropriate for anyone who drives, including youth! The course addresses risks and consequences of distracted driving, strategies to avoid distraction, and California laws.
- View 1-minute Preview - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rCMBT_0bqLs
- Take 45-minute Course - https://tredslms.ucsd.edu/learn/register/distraction
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Check out the Vive 18 podcast. In this episode of the Drug Prevention Power Hour, host Jake White speaks with Joe Eberstein, Director of Community Engagement for the Center for Community Research and the San Diego County Cannabis Public Health Initiative. They discuss the pressing issues surrounding drug prevention, particularly the fentanyl crisis, the implications of cannabis consumption lounges, and the importance of education and community engagement in prevention work. Joe shares insights on effective prevention strategies, the need for uplifting programs, and the role of data in informing their initiatives. They also address misconceptions about cannabis, the mental health implications of its use, and the importance of media advocacy in raising awareness about these critical issues.
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A new public service announcement (PSA) highlights the dangers of mislabeled THC products. From unintentional overconsumption to impaired driving, mislabeled potency levels can lead to intense and potentially dangerous experiences.
Accurate labeling is crucial for safe, responsible use—know what you’re consuming to protect yourself and others. Parents and caregivers need to be aware of the risks of mislabeled THC products and ensure that all products that may contain cannabis are kept secure and out of reach of children. You can find more information at www.sdsheriff.gov/resources/THC.
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