Jamie Johnson
After serving for ten years as the second in command of the Department of Drug & Alcohol Services, the Chester County Commissioners named Jamie Johnson the new Director upon the retirement of Vince Brown. Brown worked in Drug & Alcohol (D&A) for 32 years, the last ten as its Director.
“Jamie is passionate about helping those who struggle with substance abuse disorders, and her decades-long career with D&A demonstrates that passion,” said Commissioners’ Chair Marian Moskowitz. “The impact of substance use disorder affects far too many in our communities, so having resources readily available to those in need is of critical importance in Chester County. Jamie’s leadership will continue and build upon Drug & Alcohol’s mission to support people on their paths to healthier lives.”
Commissioner Josh Maxwell said, “Jamie is a natural successor to Vince Brown because the two worked hand-in-hand to make County services more broadly available. Earlier this year, she worked with the District Attorney’s Office to bring the Law Enforcement Treatment Initiative to Chester County. LETI allows anyone with a substance use disorder to contact law enforcement for help. She advocates for recovery programs that assist various populations with substance use disorder – including the uninsured and underinsured. People need to know that treatment services are available to anyone and everyone.”
As the Director, Johnson becomes the face of Drug & Alcohol Services, verifying that programs and case management meet state and federal regulations, overseeing spending, and ensuring that the department continues to serve the needs of Chester County residents. D&A supports numerous events each year, including the Chester County Color 5K, which raises funds for the COPE (Community Outreach Prevention and Education) program, Recovery Month, International Overdose Awareness Day, Alcohol Awareness Month, and Naloxone training, among other things.
“Jamie’s mantra is ‘recovery is possible,’ especially given the robust recovery community in Chester County,” said Commissioner Michelle Kichline. “She is the right person at the right time for this job because she believes there is hope for anyone who suffers from substance use disorder. We are fortunate to have her on the County’s team.”
District Attorney Deb Ryan said, “Jamie was pivotal in working with my office to get LETI up and running. The Chester County LETI program is the most successful in the state – with 7-10 referrals each month – thanks to how law enforcement and Drug & Alcohol Services have embraced it. I wish Jamie the best in her new position and look forward to our continued work together.”
Johnson has resided in the Borough of West Chester for over 35 years and is an animal advocate.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, help is available. Call the Drug & Alcohol Information and Referral helpline at 1-866-286-3767 or Get Help Now, a 24/7 hotline, at 1-800-662-4357.
