In a move reinforcing Los Angeles County's commitment to combat substance abuse, Supervisor Janice Hahn has reappointed Juan Navarro to the County's Commission on Alcohol and Other Drugs. Navarro, hailing from Downey, will continue to share his deep experience as the current Executive Director of the Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (L.A. CADA).
Navarro has been at the helm of L.A. CADA since 2013 and previously spent 26 years mastering the fiscal and operational side of the agency. His track record includes fostering crucial partnerships that span the county's healthcare, justice system, and social services. Navarro's appointment was announced with praise by Hahn, who said, "Juan has devoted his career to tackling the heartbreaking impact that drug and alcohol abuse have on families and communities."
The Department of Public Health-led Commission that Navarro will continue serving on provides advisory to county supervisors, aiming to mitigate the ripple effects of addiction. In a statement obtained by the County of Los Angeles, California, Hahn expressed her gratitude stating, "He leads with innovation and with a lot of heart, which is exactly the type of leader we need on this commission."
Navarro is known for developing behavioral healthcare approaches to serve at-risk populations including individuals of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the homeless. Under his guidance, L.A. CADA provides multiple recovery services and has been a notable player in the region's quest to enhance access to treatment for substance use disorders. "It's my honor as CEO of Los Angeles Centers on Alcohol and Drug Abuse to work with Supervisor Hahn, other County Supervisors, and my fellow Commissioners to continue to improve L.A. County behavioral health services," Navarro stated.
