As the Director of Community Engagement at McCall Behavioral Health Network, Lauren Pristo plays a pivotal role in addressing the pressing overdose crisis affecting northwest Connecticut and the broader state. With a focus on community-driven initiatives, Lauren spearheads several key projects aimed at enhancing public...
As the Director of Community Engagement at McCall Behavioral Health Network, Lauren Pristo plays a pivotal role in addressing the pressing overdose crisis affecting northwest Connecticut and the broader state. With a focus on community-driven initiatives, Lauren spearheads several key projects aimed at enhancing public health and safety. As the Statewide Project Manager for Connecticut’s Community and Law Enforcement for Addiction Recovery (CLEAR) program, she effectively collaborates with law enforcement agencies and community organizations to implement evidence-based strategies funded through the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Abuse Program (COSSAP). This role not only emphasizes her expertise in program coordination but also highlights her commitment to harm reduction and social epidemiology.
In addition to her statewide responsibilities, Lauren serves as the Project Director for the Litchfield County Opiate Task Force under the Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) Implementation. Here, she leads efforts to mobilize resources and engage stakeholders in combating opioid misuse through innovative community outreach and education initiatives. Her role as coordinator for the Litchfield County Opiate Task Force further underscores her leadership in fostering collaboration among local agencies, healthcare providers, and community members.
Lauren’s diverse skill set, which includes public speaking, volunteer management, and advanced research techniques such as gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting, equips her to effectively communicate complex issues surrounding addiction and recovery. Her dedication to improving community health outcomes and her strategic approach to program implementation make her a vital asset in the fight against substance abuse in Connecticut. Through her work, Lauren continues to inspire change and foster resilience within the communities she serves.
