FASD Center for Excellence

Sumter County, South Carolina
Summary of the External Launch
November 15, 2002

Local traditions of the South were once again evident at Sumter County's kick-off of the Partnership to Prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders health education program. The gathering had a "down home", friendly atmosphere that encouraged all present to become involved. Approximately 31 individuals from various agencies attended the event coordinated by the Prevention Center, a division of the Sumter Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. The Prevention Center is the lead organization for the local Partnership.

The event began with participants gathering at the Magistrate's Court in the County Building. Attendees browsed through the Partnership materials that were on display as they networked and ate a light breakfast consisting of bagels, breakfast bars, fruit, and coffee, compliments of the Prevention Center.

The breakfast was followed by a 30-minute formal program. Patricia Colclough, Women's Issues Coordinator of the Prevention Center, welcomed the attendees. Mayor Joseph T. McElveen, Jr. followed by signing a mayoral proclamation calling attention to FASD as priority issue for Sumter County. The proclamation was read aloud by Robin Mixon, Deputy Director of Prevention. A CSAP representative then provided an overview of how the Partnership to Prevent FASD is addressing these issues, and upcoming training activities were announced. Concluded with Glenn Peagler, Director of Prevention at the Prevention Center closing remarks.

Participants were excited to hear about the Partnership's next steps. They began discussing plans to distribute Partnership materials to doctors' and other clinical offices, Hope Centers, restaurants, bars, and homes. Attendees said they were also looking forward to the upcoming training sessions. Overall, local partners in Sumter County are ready to make FASD 100% preventable in their community.