Established in 2013, the Rural Substance Awareness and Action Coalition (RSAAC) is made up of individuals and organizations interested in addressing substance use in Goochland and Powhatan counties. Our mission is to prevent substance misuse, increase understanding and compassion, and be champions for those in recovery. We have a vision for a supportive, connected, and resilient rural Virginia.
Coalition Approach
By utilizing the strengths of our coalition partners, RSAAC works toward our goals through the following approach.
Community Education: RSAAC provides the following training and resources:
- Prescriber education programs
- School-based prevention activities
- Parent education programs
- Community awareness events
- Sharing valuable resources through the RSAAC website and Facebook page
Prevention Programs: RSAAC has implemented several initiatives to combat substance misuse
Safe storage and disposal of medicine:
- Community-wide Drug Take-Back Days
- Establishing drug disposal kit distribution sites
- Promoting permanent Drug Disposal Boxes in our community:
- Goochland Pharmacy (1954 Sandy Hook Rd),
- Powhatan Sheriff’s Office (3880 Old Buckingham Road)
Coalition Partnerships
RSAAC is successful because of our coalition partners. Our team is made up of state, local, and community-based stakeholders that range from:
- Business
- Faith-based organizations
- Health Care
- Law Enforcement
- Public Health
- Youth Services
- Mental Health
- Substance Abuse Treatment
- K-12 Education
- Non-profits
We are always striving to make our coalition partnerships stronger. Any group or individual can play a major role in preventing substance misuse. To learn more about RSAAC, contact Robin Pentecost at rpentecost@goochlandva.us
Current Leadership (2025)
Co-Chair: Avery Orchowsky, VDH Community Health Worker
Co-Chair: Julie McIsaac, ROOT Project Paramedic Outreach Coordinator
Secretary: Jordan Schellin, Powhatan County Outreach Coordinator
Goochland Citizen Representative: Amber Lewis, Emergency Housing Coordinator with GoochlandCares
Powhatan Citizen Representative: Jessie Brennan, VDH Population Health Community Coordinator