Shawnee County
Strengthening Coordinated Response in Shawnee County
About the Shawnee County DEC Alliance
The Shawnee County Drug Endangered Children (DEC) Alliance is a network of community partners committed to protecting children impacted by substance use.
The alliance works to raise awareness of Drug Endangered Children (DEC) and strengthen prevention efforts through education, training, and coordinated community response.
By bringing together professionals across healthcare, education, prevention services, and community organizations, Shawnee County DEC helps ensure children are identified early and connected to support before challenges deepen.
For more information, contact:
Jennifer Gassmann
Email: jgassmann@kcsl.org
Phone: 1-785-221-0424
Why This Work Matters in Shawnee County
Substance use affects entire families, and children often carry the most invisible burden.
Prenatal and environmental exposure to alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and other substances can have long-term impacts on health, development, and stability. Many of these risks are preventable with early education and informed support.
The Shawnee County DEC Alliance focuses on prevention and awareness, helping families and professionals recognize risks early and respond with care rather than crisis.
When communities act early, children experience stronger outcomes and fewer gaps in protection.
Local Initiatives & Programs
In partnership with Prevention and Resiliency Services (PARS) and other local organizations, Shawnee County DEC supports prevention-focused education designed to protect children from prenatal and environmental substance exposure.
These initiatives provide practical, evidence-based resources that empower families and professionals with clear, accessible information.
Alcohol and Pregnancy Education
Alcohol use during pregnancy is never safe. Even small amounts can lead to lifelong developmental impacts.
Shawnee County DEC partners offer educational rack cards and community resources to support prevention and informed decision-making.
Resources for alcohol and pregnancy:
Tobacco and Pregnancy Education
Smoking and vaping during pregnancy increase risks for both parent and child. Quitting at any stage of pregnancy improves outcomes.
Educational materials provided through Shawnee County DEC help families reduce preventable exposure.
Resources for Tobacco and Pregnancy:
Marijuana and Pregnancy Education
Marijuana use during pregnancy can affect fetal development and long-term health.
Shawnee County DEC supports prevention education that helps families understand risks and access trusted information.
Resources for Marijuana & Pregnancy:
Smoke-Free Environments for Children
Clear the Air. Protect Your Kids.
Secondhand and thirdhand smoke exposure increases health risks for children.
Shawnee County DEC promotes smoke-free environments through prevention education and community awareness.
Resources:
Leadership and Contact Information
Jennifer Gassmann
Email: jgassmann@kcsl.org
Phone: 1-785-221-0424
The Shawnee County DEC Alliance welcomes collaboration from community partners, professionals, and local organizations committed to strengthening coordinated response.
Get Involved in Shawnee County
Community members and professionals can support Drug Endangered Children by:
Participating in DEC trainings
Sharing prevention resources
Partnering with local organizations
Raising awareness in schools, clinics, and community spaces
Connecting families to trusted support services
To learn more or explore partnership opportunities, contact the Shawnee County DEC Alliance directly.