ABOUT US

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."