FASD Center for Excellence

Sumter County, South Carolina

CSAP visited Sumter, South Carolina on May 30-31 to meet with potential partner organizations and to explore ways to encourage more groups to participate in the Partnership to Prevent FASD.

The city of Sumter is currently experiencing a revitalization toward increased awareness of social issues facing the community. Substance abuse and the lack of access to care are among the issues drawing more attention. As a result, health and social organizations are eager to be a part of a program like the Partnership that promotes healthy behaviors among pregnant women and families planning pregnancies.

Based on the discussion groups, CSAP and the Prevention Center agreed that networking is the most effective way to bring together local health care providers, the local hospital, and community-based organizations, as well as potential faith-based partners. Participants also discussed opening a dialogue with community leaders at nearby Shaw Air Force Base.

Pat Colclough, women's issues coordinator of Sumter commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, told the audience that Sumter is very excited and proud to be a part of this national campaign. She and the other Partnership participants are looking forward to sharing their experiences with communities across the country. "We believe every community should be concerned about sharing important health messages that could prevent the devastating consequences of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome," Ms. Colclough noted.