PARS Topeka

03/06/2026

Here’s a quick tip for emergencies: If you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed, call 988 for emotional support and guidance. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately and administer naloxone if it’s available.

Knowing when to choose the right response can make all the difference in getting effective help when it’s needed most.

03/05/2026

It was a beautiful day in the middle of a lot of rainy cold ones. This meant it was the perfect day to door knock in Central Park to share out our monthly block talk newsletter.

Door knocking is such a powerful and personal way to connect with neighbors and share resources at the same time. All ages can participate in door knocking and it ensures that you reach the neighbors who may not get the opportunity to engage in the more traditional ways.

If you’d like to help with door knocking in your neighborhood you can reach out to us at PARS to get connected with neighbors so you don’t have to go walking alone.

03/05/2026

PARS is more than education. We empower parents and teachers too. Through workshops and training, we help adults recognize early signs of substance use and support youth before challenges escalate. Together, we can prevent addiction before it starts.

Read: https://parstopeka.org/how-pars-engages-schools-in-substance-use-prevention/

PARS talks about substance use prevention in school settings.

03/04/2026

Are you helping a loved one?

If you’re concerned about someone else’s substance use, a professional evaluation can help identify support options. PARS offers confidential assessments for individuals and families.

Contact PARS to schedule an evaluation today.
785-266-8666
info@parstopeka.org

03/03/2026

Many of you may know Erma for her work with the Gil Carter Initiative, but in her neighborhood she volunteers her time to be a Block Talk Host. Erma works hard to get to know her neighbors, build up the community, and create a welcoming and safe environment alongside her neighbors.

Each neighbor plays an important part in making positive changes within their community, but it would not be possible without dedicated Hosts. We will continue sharing more about our hosts over the next few months, but if you are interested in hosting or joining your own neighborhood Block Talk you can reach out to us at 785-267-2963 or ihuckins@parstopeka.org.

03/02/2026

We provide confidential & professional evaluations.

At PARS, evaluations are conducted in a supportive, judgment-free environment. Our goal is to help individuals understand their options and next steps. There is never judgment. Just talking to you about your needs.

Contact PARS to schedule an assessment today.
785-266-8666
info@parstopeka.org

02/27/2026

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.

02/26/2026

Starting your recovery journey can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. At PARS, our substance use assessments are judgment-free, compassionate conversations. You’ll meet with a licensed addiction counselor who listens, understands your story, and helps chart a path forward. It's not about labels. It's about support.

Read: https://parstopeka.org/what-happens-in-a-substance-use-assessment/

PARS talks about what happens in assessments for substance use.

02/25/2026

Block Talks Update

One thing we continue to learn through Block Talks is this:
community engagement looks different for everyone.

Not everyone can come to every meeting.
Not everyone can door knock.
Not everyone has extra hours to give.

And that’s okay.

Engagement is not about doing everything — it’s about contributing in ways that are meaningful and accessible for you.

Maybe that looks like:
• Sharing a post
• Bringing a meal one month
• Checking on a neighbor
• Offering a skill or resource
• Helping once a year at an event
• Simply showing up when you can

Every form of participation matters.

Block Talks has grown because neighbors choose to engage in ways that fit their real lives. And when people give even a small amount of time or care, it creates ripple effects we can’t always see right away.

Volunteering isn’t about perfection or performance. It’s about presence. It’s about saying, “I care about where I live.”

If you’ve been wondering how to get involved — this is your reminder that you don’t have to do it all. You just have to start somewhere that feels possible.

What feels possible for you right now?

02/25/2026

Need an evaluation for treatment placement?

PARS provides drug & alcohol evaluations to help determine appropriate treatment recommendations, including outpatient, inpatient, or educational services.

Contact PARS to schedule an assessment today.
785-266-8666
info@parstopeka.org

02/23/2026

Not sure where to start?

A drug & alcohol evaluation is often the first step toward support or treatment. PARS provides professional assessments to help guide individuals in the right direction.

Contact PARS to schedule an evaluation today.
785-266-8666
info@parstopeka.org

02/20/2026

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.