SSM Health is giving $15,000 to Drug Free Communities of Fond du Lac, a collaboration coalition dedicated to fostering a safer and more supportive environment through focused initiatives and collaborative efforts to address the growing issue of substance use in our communities.

The overarching goal is to significantly reduce the prevalence of substance use, particularly concerning narcotics and alcohol among adolescents within the Fond du Lac community.

“By focusing on education and prevention, the Drug Free Communities of Fond du Lac aims to enhance public health by reducing the harmful effects of substance use on youth and their families,” according to Jeanette Morales, Fond du Lac County United Way Drug Free Communities community impact coordinator. “The coalition works closely with schools, law enforcement, and community organizations to ensure that youth are exposed to healthy, substance-free lifestyles.”

The donation recognizes that SSM Health understands the pain and devastation of addiction, as well as the emotional and mental illnesses that may be associated with it.

“Our mission is to provide quality and compassionate care to individuals struggling with alcohol and/or drug conditions and mental health issues,” according to Jodi Dietzel, SSM Health Fond du Lac Market administrator. “Preventing mental and/or substance use disorders or co-occurring disorders, and related concerns is critical to behavioral and physical health.”

To learn more, call Fond du Lac County United Way at 920-921-7010 or visit fdlunitedway.org.

In 2024, SSM Health Greater Fond du Lac’s community benefit ministry totaled more than $568,000 across the communities it serves. This investment helps ensure access to health care for patients who are uninsured or underinsured, train the next generation of health professionals to care for those in need, and fund programs to address the most pressing health needs of our communities.

Jodi Dietzel (left), SSM Health Fond du Lac Market administrator, Laura Nakielski (second from left), SSM Health senior community health specialist, and Melissa Hayes (second from right), SSM Health Northern Region senior director – Human Resources, presents a $15,000 donation to Jeanette Morales (third from left), Fond du Lac County United Way Drug Free Communities community impact coordinator, and Amber Kilawee, Fond du Lac County United Way executive director.