Since the early days and still today, I consider the partners we work with part of the team. As TSS grew from a small basement office into the business we are now, I learned just how critical drug testing services are to community health and safety, and to what degree the mission of my small business aligns with the missions of incredible organizations aroun me committed to taking care of people.
Our community partnerships started more than two decades ago when TSS invited a small group to our office in Ketchikan to discuss how to educate, advocate and prevent substance abuse in our community. That led to the creation of the Substance Abuse Task Force, which later branched out into meetings about mental health and suicide awareness. As the group grew, it became the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition, which is now a formal non-profit, fully staffed and doing amazing things in this community and beyond – and TSS is privileged to still be an active participant.
Over the years, TSS has teamed up with many local groups on all kinds of initiatives. Some of these do not work in substance use prevention and drug screening directly, but most are within the health and safety environment. This month, I want to introduce some of these resources that are located in our brick-and-mortar communities of Ketchikan, Juneau and Keokuk. These organizations are working hard to improve lives, in fact, save lives. We are proud of the work they do and are always happy to support them. If you have questions or need more information than what we provide here, please reach out!
JUNEAU
The United Way of Southeast Alaska, is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people and improving community conditions throughout Southeast Alaska. UWSEAK supports initiatives focused on improving the health of individuals, families and communities, helping children and youth achieve their potential through education, and promoting financial stability and independence. The UWSEAK works with 33 partner agencies to create positive change. Learn more about these on the United Way website.
KEOKUK
The Best You Coalition is a Keokuk-based comprehensive substance use prevention and healthy lifestyle group that seeks to stimulate community involvement to promote responsible behaviors among youth and adults. Learn more here.
The TSS team is also proud to frequently work with PAW Animal Shelter in Fort Madison, Hope Center of Keokuk, a facility that offers free clothing and household items to those in need and the Keokuk Homeless Alliance, as well as the Quincy Area Safety Council.
KETCHIKAN
The Ketchikan Wellness Coalition is made up of a group of individuals, organizations, businesses, local government, and service representatives that work together for solutions to issues affecting the community. Among Ketchikan Wellness’s many programs are initiatives focused on mental health and suicide prevention, substance use prevention, healthier eating, literacy, eco-friendly waste and recycling practices, reducing recidivism, and strengthening cultural unity. Learn more about how to get involved here.