The Public Safety Committee members include law enforcement, human services, provider agencies, and the general public. The committee works to increase Neighborhood Watch participation, advocate for the Social Host Ordinance, and engage in other initiatives to reduce drug use and underage drinking. Currently, Public Safety is collaborating with the Kern County Sheriff’s Office and the Alcoholic Beverage Commission to offer free Responsible Beverage Service training to establishments that serve alcohol. They also participate in community outreach events including KCSO’s Trunk or Treat and National Night Out.

Meeting information: The third Wednesday of each month, 3:00 p.m. – 4:.30 p.m. at 2151 College Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305.

The Business Committee members include local businesses owners, treatment providers, public health, and the general public. The committee is working to implement strategies that reduce the availability and access to drugs, alcohol and prescription medication. The Business committee works with Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services on the Kern RX Return program. Kern Rx Return is a series of prescription take back receptacles where community members can safely and conveniently dispose of their unused or expired medications in pharmacies throughout Kern County. The Kern Rx Return program has collected over 1,600 pounds of medication. The business committee also works with Public Health and Dignity Health to facilitate prescriber trainings for medical doctors in Bakersfield.

Meeting information: The fourth Wednesday of each month, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 2151 College Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305

The Youth and Family Committee members include human services, public health, medical providers, hospitals, library workers, non-profit agencies, and the general public. The committee focuses on targeted prevention efforts and referrals to treatment surrounding youth and families. They are currently working on increasing the number of pregnant substance users who enter treatment services by advocating for families affected by substance use. In addition, they provide education and support programs that strengthen families. This committee also hosts the Annual Hope through Mentoring Conference.

Meeting information: The second Wednesday of each month, 3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at 2151 College Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305.

Drug Free Kern meets once per quarter with general membership and the executive board to update all members on the work of the coalition. This is also a time the coalition discusses new business and plans for future coalition work. All quarterly meetings are open to the public.

Meeting information: Quarterly from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at 2001, 28th Street Bakersfield, California 93301