When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Harm Reduction Action Center
Why Harm Reduction Action Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Harm Reduction Action Center (HRAC) in Denver, Colorado, is a vital community hub dedicated to educating, empowering, and advocating for people who use drugs, especially those who inject drugs. Since 2002, HRAC has been the leading provider of harm reduction services in the region, focusing on preventing overdose deaths and reducing the spread of HIV, hepatitis C, and other infections. It offers a comprehensive range of direct services including access to clean syringes, meth and crack pipes, naloxone to reverse overdoses, fentanyl testing strips, vein care, hygiene products, food access, and onsite health education. The center also provides HIV/HCV/STI testing, referrals to mental health and substance abuse treatment, and community-building opportunities that foster dignity and support. HRAC’s mobile syringe access program and rapid 911 syringe cleanup partnerships keep Denver’s streets safer and cleaner. Open weekday mornings for direct service and staffed by dedicated professionals, HRAC embodies compassion and practical support, making it a trusted and crucial meeting place for those seeking help and connection in the face of the opioid epidemic and drug use stigma.
Here's what people think of Harm Reduction Action Center
As of recent, Harm Reduction Action Center holds a 4.8-star rating based on 329 reviews.
Reviews from the community consistently rate the Harm Reduction Action Center very highly, with an overall 4.8-star rating from over 329 reviews, reflecting widespread appreciation for its meaningful impact. Positive feedback highlights the center’s compassionate, nonjudgmental approach and the life-saving resources it provides. Users praise HRAC for offering essential supplies, such as clean syringes and naloxone, which have helped prevent overdoses and improve health outcomes. Many commend the knowledgeable and caring staff who create a welcoming environment that respects clients' dignity. Additionally, the center’s community engagement and advocacy work are recognized for fostering broader awareness and support for people who use drugs. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on limited hours of operation—services are only available weekday mornings—which can restrict access for those in urgent need outside these times. Other critiques mention occasional wait times due to high demand and the challenges of navigating complex health and social services. Despite these concerns, the overall consensus is that HRAC plays an indispensable role in Denver’s public health system, offering vital harm reduction solutions that save lives and help rebuild trust within marginalized populations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
John F. Fisher
Best needle exchange program in the state of Colorado,Ms.lucy.andms lisa run this project really good and well for the Denver community
Kelly Halma
Love this program! It gives our community helpful educational information and resources to help our community. I'm so grateful for everything they do.
Sara Snyder
Was a good experience with the possibility of getting a $15 gift card to help me out that brought me this way. 🤔🧐☺️👍🥰🤩🤗 Coodles for ur staff very good planning and good flow. I have a hard time with remembering the extra help I got from other clients? Maybe was wonderful and directions, as well as the escort so I didn't get lost on the way, as I was really needing to eat was a real life saver!
Jay Moses
What a terrific health program! I can't say enough wonderful things that this place does! The people here are friendly, top notch workers and are making a real difference in the community! I'm going to support this program and it's people in my way I can. Keep up the great work you guys! Jay Moses.
Michelle
This place is absolutely amazing. Not only are the staff nice, they make everything about going there a pleasant experience. They do not judge you or treat you in any different way. You are just as human as they are. They are there to judge you or your mistakes. They are there to help you use safely. I applaud this place. I will never go anywhere else. This place feels like home. PS. I love the snack bags they give you!
How to reach Harm Reduction Action Center
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Why Harm Reduction Action Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Harm Reduction Action Center with your friends?
Gathering with friends at the Harm Reduction Action Center (HRAC) is not just a meetup but a meaningful experience rooted in community support and public health advocacy. This center, with an outstanding 4.8 rating from over 300 reviews, embodies a compassionate and inclusive environment where individuals can come together with a purpose beyond mere socializing. Rallying here with friends means joining a community that is committed to reducing harm among people who inject drugs through education, resources, and empowerment. The atmosphere is open and nonjudgmental, making it an inviting space for groups interested in social justice, health advocacy, or simply wanting to understand and support marginalized populations better. Meetings at HRAC foster dialogue, connection, and collective action in a vital area of public health often overlooked. Whether your group consists of activists, healthcare professionals, students, or concerned citizens, the center is a place to engage in impactful conversations and initiatives while strengthening bonds amongst yourselves. This unique setting offers a powerful backdrop for a meetup focused on awareness, empathy, and community engagement, which can leave everyone involved feeling inspired and educated.
What activities can you do at the Harm Reduction Action Center?
The activities at HRAC are centered primarily on direct service and public health outreach, making it a dynamic hub for those interested in meaningful community involvement. First, the center provides daily access to sterile syringes, meth/crack pipes, and disposal facilities for used ones from Monday to Friday mornings, allowing participants proactive control over their health. This service is critical in reducing infectious diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C among people who inject drugs. Beyond syringe exchange, group visitors can learn about and participate in naloxone distribution training and use, an opioid overdose reversal drug that saves lives. The center also offers vein care advice, fentanyl testing strips distribution, and supportive services such as access to hygiene products, food assistance, and a handwashing station accessible 24/7. Furthermore, HRAC runs a mobile syringe access program operating three afternoons a week, reaching out to those who cannot come to the center, which groups interested in outreach efforts can observe or help support.
Why is the Harm Reduction Action Center perfect for a group meetup?
HRAC’s setting is ideal for groups because it uniquely combines social interaction with educational, community-serving activities. The center's staff and over 600 volunteers create a warm, welcoming environment that fosters learning and open discussions about harm reduction practices, drug use stigma, and public health challenges. A group meetup here is far from passive; it can involve interactive tours, Q&A sessions with harm reduction-trained staff, or participation in community presentations tailored for healthcare providers, law enforcement, and neighborhood associations. These interactive components allow groups to gain first-hand insight into how harm reduction programs operate and the challenges faced by marginalized populations. The center’s location in Denver’s East 8th Avenue area means visitors can also experience the neighborhood’s community atmosphere. Additionally, HRAC’s acceptance of donations and the absence of fees make participation accessible and meaningful without economic barriers. The center’s collaborative spirit and focused mission make it a memorable venue for groups seeking connection through cause-driven engagement.
How can visiting Harm Reduction Action Center benefit your group’s understanding of harm reduction?
Visiting HRAC offers groups in-depth education about harm reduction strategies and the realities faced by people who inject drugs. This knowledge is crucial for breaking down societal stigma and building empathy within communities. Group members can witness how evidence-based tools like fentanyl testing strips or naloxone distribution reduce health risks and save lives in practical terms. The center’s presentations and direct interactions with staff and participants provide real insight into how the intersection of healthcare, justice, and social services plays out daily. This exposure can inspire group members to advocate for policy changes, enhance their professional practices if in healthcare or social work, and support harm reduction initiatives locally or nationally. The collaborative environment encourages questions and dialogue, offering a clear, compassionate picture of harm reduction's scope and impact. After a group visit, members typically leave with not only a better understanding but also motivation to contribute positively to this cause within their own circles.
What makes the Harm Reduction Action Center’s approach unique in public health?
HRAC stands out because it specifically serves people who inject drugs—a population often stigmatized and underserved by mainstream health services. Their approach is grounded in meeting participants “where they are at,” respecting individual experiences without judgment, and prioritizing health and safety over abstinence-only policies. This philosophy fosters trust and engagement, often missing in traditional healthcare settings. The center’s services extend beyond distribution programs to include referrals, supportive services, and partnerships with law enforcement and healthcare providers to effect systemic change. They also engage with nursing and pharmacy students and community leaders to educate and transform institutional attitudes. This comprehensive, compassionate model means that both participants and visitors—such as groups holding meetups—get a holistic view of harm reduction. Such an approach highlights how targeted, community-based interventions can dramatically improve public health outcomes and reduce the fatal consequences of drug-related harm.
How does the Harm Reduction Action Center support community involvement and volunteerism?
Community involvement at HRAC is robust, facilitated by over 600 volunteers and multiple interns who help run various programs and outreach efforts. This high level of engagement makes it an excellent place for group visitors interested in volunteer opportunities or learning about grassroots healthcare service. Volunteers assist in everything from syringe access and naloxone distribution to outreach on mobile units and community education presentations. The center supports volunteers with training and supervision, ensuring safe and respectful interaction with participants. For groups, this opens the door to meaningful, hands-on experiences in a professional yet heartfelt environment, reinforcing teamwork and collective impact. Volunteering together can deepen group connections and foster a shared sense of purpose toward a community issue that demands urgent attention and sustained support.
What amenities and resources does the Harm Reduction Action Center provide that enhance group visits?
HRAC offers many functional amenities that support group visits and activities within its space. The center has a 24/7 handwashing station and provides hygiene products to participants and visitors alike, an essential feature for maintaining health and safety during visits. Food access resources ensure that if your group is visiting during service hours, food support is also available, enhancing comfort and hospitality. Communication access is provided through phones and mail services to connect participants with service providers, families, or courts, which visitors can observe as part of learning how comprehensive care is provided. Dedicated meeting and presentation areas allow for group activities, discussions, and lectures on harm reduction topics facilitated by experienced staff. These resources combine to create an environment where groups can learn, interact, and contribute comfortably and confidently.
How can your group make the most of a visit to the Harm Reduction Action Center?
To maximize the experience of your meetup at HRAC, groups should plan ahead by reaching out for orientation and possible guided tours to get a structured understanding of the center’s work and facilities. Engaging actively during presentations, asking questions, and even participating in volunteer activities are all ways to deepen your group’s connection to the cause. Taking time to reflect and discuss among yourselves how the center’s initiatives impact broader community health can transform a visit into a catalyst for ongoing advocacy or projects. Bringing a mix of perspectives—whether from healthcare, social work, policy, or concerned citizens—enriches the dialogue and encourages innovative solutions. Finally, respecting the center’s mission and participant confidentiality ensures a positive and respectful environment, making the experience rewarding for both visitors and the community served.
What impact does the Harm Reduction Action Center have on Denver and beyond?
HRAC plays a vital role in Denver’s public health landscape by significantly reducing disease transmission, preventing overdoses, and providing critical social support for marginalized populations. By serving over 12,000 participants over the past decade and maintaining a strong daily presence, the center has established itself as a trusted resource locally. Their mobile outreach extends their impact to hard-to-reach individuals, ensuring wider community coverage. Through education of institutional stakeholders such as law enforcement and healthcare workers, HRAC influences systemic changes that ripple beyond Denver. Groups visiting the center can witness firsthand the positive outcomes of these efforts, which combine direct public health interventions with advocacy and community empowerment. This holistic approach not only saves lives but also fosters a safer, more inclusive society where everyone’s health and dignity are protected. Your rally at HRAC contributes to this vibrant ecosystem of care and change.
The Harm Reduction Action Center is thus much more than a nonprofit organization; it is a vibrant community hub where groups can engage with a critical public health issue through education, service, and meaningful connection. Whether you aim to rally friends for social support, activism, learning, or volunteerism, HRAC offers a unique, welcoming venue to grow together and make an impact.