May 13th, 2025

 Dr. Amy Burns, a board-certified psychiatrist and addiction specialist, walks us through the truth behind buprenorphine and methadone, how they work, and the common misconceptions that keep people from getting life-saving care.

Participants learned about:

• The science behind proven medications
• Overcoming stigma and misinformation
• Spokane’s treatment gaps and access issues
• How to advocate for a loved one

If you’ve ever wondered what comes after Narcan — this is where the conversation begins.

In this powerful first community session, Spokane County Sheriff Wade Knowles and State Representative Lauren Davis break down Ricky’s Law and how families can use it to protect loved ones facing life-threatening addiction. Learn how the law works, what steps to take if someone is in danger, and what resources are available right now for fentanyl-related crises. 

Spokane City Council Chambers

Facilitated by Zeke Smith of Empire Health Foundation, this session featured:

• Mayor Lisa Brown, proposing a $730,000 opioid settlement investment, stating, “falling through the cracks can be fatal” (Spokesman-Review, June 3, 2025)
• Fire Chief Julie O’Berg
• Assistant Police Chief Steve Wohl
• Deputy City Administrator Maggie Yates

Leaders shared how public safety, housing, and health systems must work together to respond to the

The June 10 session featured a strong lineup of presenters:

• Dr. Francisco Velázquez, Spokane Regional Health Officer, opened with a regional snapshot and call to action
• Toni Lodge, Executive Director of The NATIVE Project,
• Judge Gloria Ochoa-Burke 
• Coordinated Care of Washington, led by the CEO and her team,
• The evening closed with a Lived Experience Panel from Adult & Teen Challenge,  Closing message from Andrew Hill, CEO Excelsior Wellness