Our Events
Empowerment Through Learning
Stay informed and empowered through our comprehensive training sessions and events, designed to equip professionals and communities with the latest strategies and knowledge in substance use prevention and mental health promotion. Join us to learn, collaborate, and take actionable steps towards a healthier future.
In-Person Trainings
Participate in our interactive in-person trainings, where prevention professionals and coalition members can learn from experienced trainers and engage in hands-on activities. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including coalition building, community engagement, and effective prevention strategies.
We’re Passionate About Fostering Healthier Communities by Empowering Prevention Professionals & Coalitions
Virtual Trainings
Our virtual trainings offer a flexible and accessible way to build essential skills in substance use prevention and mental health promotion. Designed for professionals, community leaders, and individuals committed to making a positive impact, these online sessions cover a wide range of topics, from evidence-based prevention strategies to cultural competency and community engagement.
Meet Our Team
Get to know the dedicated professionals behind our mission, each bringing unique skills and experiences to drive impactful change.
David Reyes
Associate Consultant
David Reyes
Associate Consultant
David holds a B.A. in Anthropology and a Master’s in Social Work with expertise in qualitative and quantitative research, website development, and data management, he excels in survey development, administration, analysis, and communication. Before joining the team, David served as a Youth Peer Advocate with a local substance abuse prevention council. His experience enriches his role in providing technical assistance, developing training programs, and delivering research-informed policy and program recommendations.
Jennifer Jacobsen
Associate Consultant
Jennifer Jacobsen
Associate Consultant
Jennifer Jacobsen brings 8 years of experience in the field to her role as an Associate Consultant. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Education with a focus on Counselor Education. Additionally, she is a Certified Prevention Specialist.
Jennifer’s professional background includes 4 years at Cross Sector Consulting, where she has made significant contributions. Before joining Cross Sector Consulting, she served as the CSC Grant Coordinator for the Fairfield CARES Coalition for 3 years, and she was a volunteer member of the coalition prior to that. Outside of her professional work, Jennifer is actively involved in her community as a member and Chair of the Fairfield Board of Education.
Kathleen Mierkiewicz
Associate Consultant
Kathleen Mierkiewicz
Associate Consultant
Kathleen Mierkiewicz, also known as Kate, joins our team as an Associate Consultant with 10 years of experience in the field. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and brings a wealth of knowledge from her previous role as a community and long-term care social worker. Kate has dedicated her career to promoting preventative care and wellness among the senior population, specializing in engaging with adults to identify their needs, provide resources, and foster community connections.
Kate is excited to apply her extensive experience in preventative health and community well-being to our team, where she will focus on proactive solutions. In her personal time, Kate enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors.
Ken Plourd
Associate Consultant
Ken Plourd
Associate Consultant
Ken Plourd is an Associate Consultant with a strong background in prevention and community support. He holds a B.A. in Cultural Anthropology and Ethnographic Research Methods. With experience as a prevention coalition coordinator, Ken’s expertise encompasses product development, training, and technical assistance. His deep understanding of community dynamics and prevention strategies allows him to effectively contribute to our team’s mission by offering valuable insights and support.
Lisa Mason
Associate Consultant
Lisa Mason
Associate Consultant
Lisa Mason is an Associate Consultant with a Masters in Counseling and certification as a Prevention Specialist. Her expertise is centered on providing development training and support to prevention workforce and communities implementing various prevention programs. Lisa specializes in coordinating group and individual technical assistance for community coalitions utilizing the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF). She is dedicated to continuously assessing coalition needs and crafting tailored training and support to effectively meet those needs.
Morgan Jacobsen
Intern
Morgan Jacobsen
Intern
Morgan Jacobsen is an Intern at TTASC, where they have been gaining valuable experience over the past two summers. As a rising junior at the University of Connecticut, Morgan has utilized their time at TTASC to explore various learning opportunities and career paths within the prevention field. Outside of their internship, Morgan serves as a chemistry tutor and student teacher at UConn, and is involved in research on flow chemistry under Dr. Kerry Gilmore.
Upcoming Trainings & Events
Click on the events below to learn more and register to attend!
Ethics for Prevention Professionals: A focus on the intersection of ethics and harm reduction
Ethics for Prevention Professionals: A focus on the intersection of ethics and harm reduction
Join us for this free in-person training on Tuesday, February 25th, 2025. A continental breakfast will be provided. Attendance is limited to 30 attendees so be sure to RSVP below to confirm your spot!
National Prevention Week Planning Workshop
National Prevention Week Planning Workshop
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link. This one-hour virtual workshop presented by Lisa Mason
An Orientation to the DMHAS Center for Prevention, Evaluation, and Statistics at UCONN Health (CPES)
An Orientation to the DMHAS Center for Prevention, Evaluation, and Statistics at UCONN Health (CPES)
Please register below to attend this virtual event! Once we’ve received your RSVP, you will receive an email confirmation with the Zoom Link. Presenter: Jennifer Sussman, Coordinator, DMHAS Center for Prevention
Our Connecticut Partners
