MIDDLEBURY — In response to opioid crisis in Vermont, the Department of Health (VDOH) and the Hannaford Career Center are partnering to offer a series of workshops, starting Feb. 11, from 6-8:15 p.m., aimed at building understanding and community resilience to respond to this epidemic. The workshop continues on Feb. 18 and 25. 
Hardly a week goes by that there isn’t a news story in Addison County that in some way relates to opioid drug use and its effects on individuals and our community. The VDOH reported 89 opioid-related fatalities in Vermont in the first 10 months of 2019. 
The workshop series is an opportunity to learn and share about the opiate crisis, signs of opioid addiction, the effect of opioid addiction on people and their families, and what can be done to help. The three-class series is recommended for anyone who wants to make a difference in their community — parents, grandparents, educators, healthcare professionals, social workers, employers and anyone who has felt confused, scared, or frustrated by the use of opiates in our communities. 
Each session incorporates participatory opportunities so people can share their own experiences and ideas if they chose, including guest perspectives from emergency service first responders. Dinner is provided. 
The workshop costs $30, and scholarships are available. To register for this series, contact Denise at the Hannaford Career Center at 802-382-1004 or visit the Career Center website at hannafordcareercenter.org. Space is limited.