Our Work

At the OMNI Institute we’re committed to engaging in mutual learning, dialogue, and resource sharing with those we serve and those we serve alongside. We hope you’ll find these resources helpful!

New Release | 2024 Virginia Substance Use Prevention Block Grant Annual Report

Since 2014, OMNI has partnered with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services to strengthen prevention efforts through data-driven strategies, capacity-building, and technical assistance. The newly released 2023-2024 Virginia Substance Use Prevention Block Grant Annual Report highlights the state’s efforts to address substance misuse through targeted prevention programs and community initiatives.

This year’s report highlights key activities, including the implementation of the Strategic Prevention Framework, which provides structure and sustainability to prevention programs. The report emphasizes the broad impact of evidence-based strategies, including outreach to individuals, youth-focused education, and professional training to strengthen local prevention capacities. Check out the full report to learn more about how the Virginia Substance Use Prevention Block Grant is making measurable progress in reducing substance use rates and helping to foster healthier communities across Virginia.

Access the report here.

New Release | Health Equity in Challenging Contexts

How can health department leaders and their partners build support for health equity across diverse political perspectives, mindsets, values, and identities? Addressing this question is crucial for advancing programs and initiatives that effectively serve the most vulnerable and underserved populations.

These strategies highlight the importance of understanding local environments, using structured frameworks, fostering a growth mindset, aligning with shared values, simplifying messaging, building strategic partnerships, and prioritizing self- and community-care!

Access the resource here.

New Release | Inclusive Language Guide

The Inclusive Language Guide emerged out of our own practice of using inclusive language to foster greater reach within communities, facilitate higher quality data, and center respect for individuals from marginalized or underrepresented groups. The guide provides actionable recommendations for using language that promotes equity while improving communication and collaboration with diverse communities. Categories addressed include ableism, body size, gender diversity, mental health, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, and the guide replaces outdated or stigmatizing terms in these categories with neutral and affirming alternatives.

Access the guide here.

OMNI Toolkits & Guides

Public Reports

Literature Reviews

  • Best Practices for Treating Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

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  • Measuring Outcomes of Peer Recovery Support Services

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Project Case Studies

  • Developing a Health Equity Toolkit for Rural & Remote Communities

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  • Developing a Common Data Platform

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  • Engaging Individuals with Disabilities in a Needs Assessment

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  • VA SOR Grant Evaluation & Technical Assistance

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  • Evaluating a Grant Program that Supports Community-Led Design

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