the harris project, the only nonprofit in the nation committed to the prevention and treatment of co-occurring disorders (the combination of one or more mental health challenges and substance misuse/addiction), went virtual during these difficult times to best ensure the mutual support that our young people provide to each other.  

CODA (Co-Occurring Disorders Awareness), the harris project’s peer-led prevention movement, had its signature events postponed - March CODA Youth Summit, April CODA Weeks, and Spring CODA Games. the harris project wasted no time moving CODA programming online, creating interactive tools and activities to support the behavioral health and wellness of our youth. Virtual CODA Weeks and events have been taking place in collaboration with local school districts, colleges, and community organizations since “stay at home” orders were put in place.

Now more than ever as our young people are more isolated from one another, their overall health and well-being are potentially compromised. the harris project continues to empower our youth to connect and support each other, while knowing who to link to if they are concerned about themselves or a friend. “We want them to understand the risks of self-medication and other harmful coping mechanisms, and apply this knowledge to be proactive”, stressed Stephanie Marquesano, founder of the harris project. 

Thanks to ongoing relationships with Southern Westchester and Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES, Marquesano has been presenting to school administrators, teachers, and staff through Virtual Meetups on: the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health and wellness of student-athletes; accessing clinical supports through telehealth for youth experiencing mental health challenges, substance misuse/addiction, and trauma, using the arts as positive social emotional outlets for our youth through a CODA lens; CODA and implementing CODA programming virtually.

the harris project’s hashtags #CODAConnects (each of us has the power to connect and support one another) and #BeTheLink (know who you would link to if you were concerned about yourself or a friend) serve as reminders of our role in mutual support during these extraordinary times.

To learn more, follow the harris project on Instagram @theharrisprojectCOD or Twitter @theharrispro. Visit theharrisproject.org. 
Email stephanie@theharrisproject.org for additional information and to access the harris project’s online programming and Virtual CODA Weeks guide.