Sponsor: Bailey Sharver of Harbor House Prevention

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At the heart of Arkansas’s efforts to prevent substance misuse and promote behavioral health is Harbor House, Inc., a long-standing leader in prevention work across Western Arkansas. Since launching the state’s first organized prevention program in 1982—the Early Intervention Program (EIP)—Harbor House has been setting the standard for community-based prevention strategies. More than 30 years later, the same six counties initially served continue to benefit from innovative, data-driven, and community-led prevention efforts.

One of the key figures driving this mission forward today is Bailey Sharver, the Regional Prevention Representative for Region 8, which includes Clark, Garland, Hot Spring, Pike, and Montgomery counties. With nearly three years of experience in the role, Bailey brings passion, professionalism, and purpose to every corner of the region. As a Certified Prevention Specialist with a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Arkansas State University, she brings a strong foundation in leadership, budget management, and strategic planning to the work she does every day.

So, what does a Regional Prevention Representative do? In short, everything. These representatives are genuine connectors, from coordinating coalition meetings and leading task forces to delivering community presentations, marketing media campaigns, and facilitating trainings. Their work connects the 12 key community sectors, bridging gaps and building sustainable partnerships. Each of Arkansas’s 13 regions is equipped with a resource center, and Region 8 is no exception, ensuring residents have access to the tools and knowledge they need to foster safer, healthier environments.

Harbor House Prevention Programs operates through six core initiatives, each designed to promote local, regional, and state prevention efforts. These services include:

• Public awareness campaigns and media outreach to elevate behavioral health topics
• Distribution of educational materials and resources to the community
• Workshops, trainings, and in-services for schools, civic groups, and local organizations
• Technical assistance for developing prevention programs, choosing curricula, and interpreting data
• Environmental      strategies focused on reducing access to alcohol and tobacco
• Data  collection support for the Arkansas Prevention Needs Assessment

These efforts align with the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF). They are guided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), ensuring a comprehensive, research-based approach that addresses prevention across the lifespan.

The ultimate goal is to build proactive, empowered, and unified communities that reduce substance misuse and promote behavioral health. Harbor House’s prevention team fosters open dialogue, inspires action, and strengthens grassroots advocacy by partnering with schools, faith-based organizations, local coalitions, workplaces, and families.

As Bailey Sharver often says, “In prevention, we wear many hats.” Whether in a boardroom, a classroom, or at a community festival, her mission is clear: to spark connection, elevate awareness, and drive lasting, positive change across Region 8.

Prevention programming makes a difference, and Harbor House is proud to lead the way.

Learn more or get involved at www.facebook.com/raadregion8or www.harborhouseprevention.com