PARS Topeka

12/08/2025

988 is here to break barriers to care and make seeking help easier for everyone. This lifeline is designed to reduce stigma by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for those in need of support. Available 24/7 via call, text, or chat, 988 ensures help is always accessible.

Let’s normalize asking for help. Share this message to spread the word and let others know they’re not alone.

12/08/2025

The holidays can bring some tough moments, but we’re here to help you navigate them.

Setting clear boundaries is essential in protecting your recovery. Let friends and family know what makes you comfortable and what doesn’t. Saying "No." when needed is empowering and necessary for your well-being.

12/07/2025

The holiday season often revolves around alcohol, but we believe in creating spaces where you can feel comfortable.

If you’re worried about the pressure to drink at a social event, consider hosting your own sober gathering. You can control the environment, make sure it’s safe and fun for everyone, and focus on enjoying the company of others without alcohol involved.

12/06/2025

988 is a lifeline for diverse communities, offering support that is inclusive and accessible to all. Gender affirming counselors are available to provide compassionate care tailored to individual needs. Spanish and ASL services ensure accessibility for those who may need it, while interpreters make it possible to offer support in over 240 languages.

Help is always just a call, text, or chat away—because no one should ever feel left behind.

12/06/2025

During the holidays, the stress can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating recovery.

We understand that recovery is a personal journey, and that's why we recommend bringing a support buddy with you. Having someone who understands and supports your recovery can make social events easier to handle and help you stay accountable.

12/05/2025

Calling 988 means compassionate care. When you reach out to 988 by phone or text, you are immediately connected with trained crisis counselors who are ready to listen and provide support. These counselors offer emotional assistance and connect you to valuable resources, all while ensuring that law enforcement is only involved if absolutely necessary.

The service is completely confidential, judgment-free, and designed to create a safe space for anyone experiencing a behavioral health crisis. You are not alone—help is just a call or text away.

12/05/2025

The holiday season can bring extra pressure and temptations. We know everyone’s recovery journey is unique, and that’s why we’ve put together 24 helpful tips for both those in recovery and those hosting loved ones in recovery.

One of our key suggestions is to always have an exit plan. Know when and how to leave an event if things start to feel uncomfortable. Your well-being is the priority! 💪

12/04/2025

If you live in the ward parkway neighborhood our winter Block Talk meeting is Monday, December 8th, at 6:00 PM. The meeting is being held at Gage Bowl! We hope to see you there.

12/04/2025

From Naloxone distribution to parent education workshops, PARS is bringing substance use prevention to the community one life-saving resource at a time. Together, we can reduce stigma and support those who need help.

Read: https://parstopeka.org/community-involvement-in-substance-use-prevention/

PARS talks about substance use prevention in community based settings.

12/03/2025

PARS is here to help our community stay informed about the right resources at the right time. Calling 988 provides real-time support for emotional and behavioral health crises with minimal law enforcement involvement, connecting individuals to local resources for ongoing care. For physical emergencies or situations involving immediate danger, calling 911 is the best option.

Visit our website or access detailed guides and resources on crisis management at SAMHSA to learn how these services can make a difference in someone's time of need. Together, we can create a safer, healthier community.

PARS website: www.parstopeka.org.
SAMSHA resources: https://library.samhsa.gov/product/advising-people-using-988-versus-911-practical-approaches-healthcare-providers/pep24-06-009

#988

12/03/2025

Our Mutual Aid Program officially came to an end on November 30th. It was an incredible season of community care. 💛

We are so grateful for every donor, volunteer, community member, and neighbor who made this possible. What started as a response to urgent needs grew into a powerful reminder of what happens when neighbors look out for one another.

One of the most meaningful parts of this effort was connecting individuals to their Block Talk, not just to receive assistance, but to be welcomed into their neighborhood, build long-term relationships, and learn how to be part of the process. Many neighbors who were first connected for support ended up contributing to their Block Talk’s mutual aid efforts in their own unique ways. That is the heart of community.

Although this specific program has ended, Block Talks are always doing this work. If you want to get connected to the Block Talk in your area, or help start one if your neighborhood doesn’t yet have one, reach out to us anytime. Community happens when we build it together.

Mutual Aid Impact at a Glance:
We connected 532 new neighbors to 5,003 resources and assistance items (this does not include any of the year-round work Block Talks already do).

Thank you for helping us create something powerful, compassionate, and lasting.

12/03/2025

Need a Substance Use Evaluation? We’re here when you’re ready.

Whether it's a requirement or a personal choice, getting evaluated is an important step forward — and we’re here to make it easier.

At PARS, we provide confidential and compassionate assessments to help guide your next move.

✔️ Legal evaluations (DUI, probation, etc.)
✔️ Support for treatment planning
✔️ Guidance for those ready for change

Call 785-266-8666 or visit parstopeka.org
Your journey matters. Let’s begin it together.