234. Jaime Ross | Nevada Drug Prevention Coalition234. Jaime Ross | Nevada Drug Prevention Coalition
High Truths on Drugs and Addiction
Jamie Ross wears many hats. She is Executive Director of the PACT Coalition, coordinator for the Nevada Statewide Coalition Partnership and sits on too many boards and committees to count. Jamie Ross has been the Executive Director of the PACT Coalition since 2011. She has been involved with substance misuse prevention from a young age, and took that passion into a career creating system wide change to reduce substance misuse. The PACT Coalition is a substance misuse prevention coalition in Las Vegas with diverse funding focusing on the spectrum of prevention including mental health, primary and tertiary substance misuse prevention, and the intersection of prevention into all aspects of community building. Jamie believes in the power of community to change itself for the better. When a community comes together to solve its own problems, the result is transformative. As Sam Quinones says, ‘the solution to the opioid crisis isn’t naloxone, it’s community.’
1:03:04•17 Jun 2025
234. Jaime Ross | Nevada Drug Prevention Coalition
Episode Overview
- Jamie Ross leads the PACT Coalition in Nevada.
- Importance of community in substance misuse prevention.
- Challenges in addressing methamphetamine addiction.
- Impact of cannabis legislation on local communities.
- Education as a key to prevention across age groups.
“"Prevention is the only part of the spectrum that can stand on its own."”
In this episode of High Truths on Drugs and Addiction, host Dr. Roneet Lev dives into the multifaceted world of drug prevention and community engagement with guest Jamie Ross. Jamie Ross, the Executive Director of the PACT Coalition in Nevada, has been at the forefront of substance misuse prevention since 2011. Her dedication to creating systemic change is evident as she discusses the coalition's efforts in tackling substance misuse, particularly in Las Vegas and Reno.
The PACT Coalition focuses on a spectrum of prevention strategies, addressing mental health and addiction with diverse funding sources. Dr. Lev opens the conversation by highlighting the power of community, citing Compton's fight against marijuana shops as an inspiring example. Jamie Ross echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in drug prevention efforts.
She shares insights on the challenges faced in addressing opioid and methamphetamine misuse, pointing out the disparity in resources available for different types of substance addictions. The episode also touches on the impact of recent cannabis legislation, with Jamie reflecting on the changes in Nevada and other states. The discussion reveals the complexities of navigating public health and safety in light of new consumption lounges, and the need for adequate education to prevent impaired driving and other risks associated with marijuana use.
Throughout the episode, Jamie Ross underscores the importance of education in prevention, not only for youth but also for senior citizens. She recounts anecdotes that illustrate the dangers of drug misuse, such as the unintended consequences of seniors consuming cannabis edibles. Dr. Lev and Jamie Ross share a hopeful vision of prevention as a proactive approach that can stand on its own within the spectrum of health interventions.
Though the challenges are significant, their conversation is a testament to the progress made and the potential for continued positive impact through community-driven initiatives.
Do you want to link to this podcast?
Get the buttons here!
More From This Show
The latest episodes from the same podcast.
Related Episodes
Similar episodes from other shows in the catalogue.