THE COMMUNITY-BASED DRUG REHABILITATION PROGRAM: ITS CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS A DRUG-FREE COMMUNITY

The Community-Based Drug Rehabilitation Program (CBDRP) serves as a transformative journey for individuals battling substance abuse soon to be known as Recovery Champions empowering them to break free from addiction and embrace a new path toward lasting change. The program aims to prevent relapse and promote sustained recovery through community engagement, especially among vulnerable youth. A Mixed Methods research design, specifically an Explanatory Sequential approach, was employed to gather both quantitative and qualitative data. Findings revealed that the implementation of the CBDRP was consistently observed by both Recovery Champions and program administrators. Key strategies contributing to the program’s effectiveness included the conduct of seminars, strengthened coordination and communication, and heightened community awareness. These initiatives supported the ongoing rehabilitation and reintegration of participants into society. The study recommends enhancing the facilitation of drug dependence examinations and increasing support for Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils to improve the accuracy of assessments and the effectiveness of community interventions. Additionally, prioritizing livelihood programs, strengthening community relationships, and refining goal-setting strategies are vital in promoting long-term recovery outcomes. The findings serve as a foundation for evidence-based improvements in the CBDRP, particularly in enhancing partnerships with community leaders, strengthening communication with clients, and increasing awareness of recovery pathways. These insights contribute to a more responsive and sustainable approach toward achieving a drug-free community Keywords: Community Based Rehabilitation program, Drug-free Community, Recovery Champion.