ABOUT US
OUR VISION
UMADAOP envisions a future where all African American and marginalized youth, adults, families, and communities possess the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to achieve mental well-being and overcome substance use challenges.
OUR MISSION
The mission of UMADAOP is to empower and equip youth, adults, and families in African American and marginalized communities to effectively address and overcome the disparities associated with mental health and substance use.
CORE VALUES
UMADAOP OF CINCINNATI
DEDICATION
We support individuals in marginalized communities by addressing the intersectionality of mental health and substance use.
SOCIAL JUSTICE
We actively promote social justice by championing equality, inclusivity, and the rights of all individuals.
RESPECT
We treat every person with compassion and respect, honoring the unique perspectives and backgrounds while creating a space where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.
COLLABORATION
We believe that strong, meaningful relationships are the foundation of our daily work. We value connection, empathy, open communication and cooperation.
INTEGRITY
We act responsibly and transparently, ensuring that our decisions and practices align with our ethical principles.
COMPETENCE
We embrace lifelong learning and actively apply our expertise in daily practice to advance the mission of our organization.
LEARN MORE
OUR TEAM
Debra Sellars
BOARD SECRETARY
Deon Mack
BOARD CHAIR
Patricia Brown
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
LEARN MORE
OUR HISTORY
The Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Programs (UMADAOP) of Ohio were established in 1980 through legislation led by former State Representative William L. Mallory. He was prompted by Don Turner, a substance abuse professional, to address the unmet cultural needs of African Americans. Jacqueline P. Butler, an advocate for underserved populations, highlighted available state funding for a targeted substance abuse service delivery system. This collaboration, including figures like former Senator William F. Bowen, led to a statewide network aimed at preventing alcohol abuse among African and Hispanic Americans.
With an initial appropriation of $200,000 from House Bill 204 in 1979, the first programs—originally named Urban Minority Alcoholism Outreach Programs (UMAOP)—were launched in Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo, and Youngstown. As the crack cocaine crisis emerged in the mid-1980s, the name was changed to reflect a broader focus on drug abuse.
The early emphasis was on community outreach and education, breaking cultural barriers to promote substance-free living. Over the years, all of the UMADOAPs across the State of Ohio have become independent agencies. enhancing their effectiveness through a multitude of services and serving multiple populations such as youth, adults and seniors.
Key figures, such as Jewel E. Neely-Smith and former Representative Ray Miller, have been instrumental in advocating for culturally appropriate programs and increasing state funding for UMADAOP.
Today, UMADAOP remains committed to serving Ohio's underserved populations with culturally relevant substance abuse prevention and outreach services. As the saying goes, "None of us is free until all of us are free."
STORYCORPS INTERVIEW
WILLIAM MALLORY SR.
UMADAOP OF CINCINNATI
SUPPORTERS
UMADAOP FEDERATION
HUNTINGTON BANK
INTERACT FOR HEALTH
HAMILTON COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH AND RECOVERY SERVICES BOARD
OHIO MENTAL HEALTH & ADDICTION SERVICES
UMADAOP
REDUCE THE STIGMA
Your donation goes a long way towards providing mental health and addiction services to at-risk youth and adults in the Cincinnati community.
Please follow the link below to make a donation via PayPal.
