Today, behavioral health professionals from Bermuda and the United States of America announced a formal partnership anchored in the principle that: “Prevention is Better Together.”
In attendance were The Hon. Jache Adams JP, MP, Acting Minister of National Security, together with Joanne Dean, Shavana Wilson & Taia Trew of Bermuda.
Prevention Association Professionals included Mitchell Moore TX, Cindy Becker KS, Candice Abasta NM, Albert Gay, IN, Dr. Crystal Collier TX, Sara Golden, WA, Michelle Roaque, NM, Kim Langley MI, Anne Clickner MI, Katherine Gordon, MI, Karesa Knight Wilkerson IN, Michelle Ross, Jennifer Wariner, Sara Stearns, Debbie Wertz MI, Maura McGowan NH, Jennifer Olson WA, Marissa Carlson NH, Jessica Colley NV, Jake & Emily White AZ, Katie Ball MI and other Prevention Professionals.
This alliance of behavioral health experts remains steadfast in their resolve: by supporting one another, we contribute to a safer, healthier world.
Recognizing that a nation’s strength depends upon the health of its people, this partnership identifies Substance Use Disorder (SUD) as a systemic threat to the future of our youth, families, and communities.
As addiction challenges transcend international boundaries, this unified effort represents a proactive stance toward fostering healthier individuals, resilient families, and safer communities.
By aligning resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to community well-being, these professionals are dedicated to preventing substance use disorders by mitigating early risk factors among youth and reinforcing protective factors within families and social networks.
“We have formed this partnership with the understanding that our success depends on the health of our neighbors, both at home and across the seas” Mitchell Moore stated. “We are committed to the well-being of our communities, to our professional colleagues, and to the enduring strength of the prevention field.”
This partnership was commemorated on April 17, 2026, with the following formal proclamation presented to The Hon. Jache Adams JP, MP, Acting Minister of National Security, together with Joanne Dean, Shavana Wilson & Taia Trew of Bermuda at the Royal Navy Dockyard.
“Prevention is better together, and through our united efforts, we are securing a brighter future for all.”
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the health, safety, and prosperity of a nation are fundamentally rooted in the stability of its families, the safety of its communities, and the well-being of its people; and
WHEREAS, substance use disorder and other behavioral health issues represent a significant threat to the social fabric and civilizational vitality of our nations, demanding a unified, uncompromising, and proactive response; and
WHEREAS, the Government of Bermuda has demonstrated commendable foresight and commitment through the establishment of robust prevention programs designed to protect its citizenry, foster resilience, and promote the health of its people; and
WHEREAS, the challenges posed by behavioral health issues transcend geographical boundaries, necessitating that prevention professionals committed to health and safety share resources, expertise, and strategies; and
WHEREAS, the principle that “prevention is better together” acknowledges that communities are strengthened by strategic, principled coalitions, and that by aligning the efforts of Bermudian prevention professionals with like-minded professionals in the United States, we create a beneficial partnership that serves and protects our collective future;
NOW, THEREFORE, let it be resolved that this partnership between prevention professionals from Bermuda and the United States is established to pursue the common objective of creating healthier and safer communities.
We affirm that PREVENTION IS BETTER TOGETHER and pledge to remain steadfast in this proactive partnership to ensure that the communities we build today provide a place of health and safety for those who will follow in our footsteps.
ADOPTED this 17th day of May, in the year of our Lord 2026.
