Our Mission

Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (QCASA) serves the residents of Queens County and surrounding communities by addressing issues related to chemical dependency, promoting healthy behaviors, and fostering collaboration among professionals, providers, and individuals impacted by substance abuse.

QCASA is an alliance of substance abuse treatment providers, community organizations, and consumers dedicated to improving the quality of life for those affected by addiction. Through partnerships with the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), QCASA works to increase awareness, strengthen community connections, encourage unity among service providers, and promote positive social change throughout the community.

Benefits of Joining

Connect with Providers

Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse meetings provide an excellent opportunity for treatment providers, counselors, educators, and community professionals to network, collaborate, and share valuable resources. Presentations and discussions feature topics such as innovative treatment approaches, updates on billing and insurance regulations, emerging trends in addiction services, and information about programs and supports available throughout the community.

By attending QCASA meetings, providers can strengthen professional relationships, exchange ideas, and work together to improve the quality of care and support available to individuals and families impacted by substance use disorders.

Connect with Consumers

QCASA membership also offers current and former consumers an opportunity to better understand how treatment services are delivered and how local and statewide policies are developed and implemented. Monthly meetings provide a welcoming space where individuals can share their experiences, learn about available resources, and become active participants in shaping the future of recovery services.

For many individuals, participation in QCASA becomes a meaningful part of the recovery journey—offering connection, empowerment, and the opportunity to give back to the treatment community. Every voice matters, and lived experience plays an essential role in creating positive change.

Connect with Young People

QCASA’s youngest members have created their own subcommittee, Youth Empowerment Speaks (YES), dedicated to supporting young people in recovery and promoting healthy, substance-free lifestyles. YES demonstrates that young people can live free from alcohol and drugs while still building meaningful friendships, having fun, and supporting one another.

Young people in recovery are encouraged to attend YES meetings, connect with peers who share similar experiences, and use their voices and stories to inspire hope and resilience in others facing similar challenges.

A Word From the Chairperson

Thank you for visiting the website of the Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse.

For nearly 20 years, QCASA has been an important part of the prevention, treatment, and recovery community throughout Queens County and surrounding areas. Our organization has built a strong and supportive network dedicated to assisting individuals and families affected by addiction, while also fostering collaboration, education, and camaraderie among the professionals who provide these essential services.

We are grateful that you have taken the time to visit our website and learn more about our mission. We hope the information provided here is helpful and encourages you to join us at one of our monthly meetings or annual conferences. Together, we can continue strengthening our community, supporting recovery, and promoting positive change.

If you would like additional information or would like to be added to our mailing list, please contact us at info@qcasa.org.

Thank you for all that you do to support individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use and addiction.

Warm regards,

Beth Covelli, LCSW-R
Chairperson, Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse

Meeting schedule

Per membership request, monthly meetings will remain virtual

Topic: Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (QCASA)

Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm

3rd Wednesday of every month

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8286721283?pwd=OVZaZ2xpZ04vUjZWM1MvTUJ4U2NEQT09&omn=86371584337

Meeting ID: 828 672 1283

Passcode: 969159

For updates email

Per membership request, monthly meetings will remain virtual

Topic: Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse (QCASA)

Time: 3:00pm-5:00pm

3rd Wednesday of every month

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8286721283?pwd=OVZaZ2xpZ04vUjZWM1MvTUJ4U2NEQT09&omn=86371584337

Meeting ID: 828 672 1283

Passcode: 969159

For updates email info@qcasa.org

Wednesday, October 21, 2026. Annual Symposium

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Wednesday February 18, 2026

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Wednesday, June 17, 2026

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Wednesday, October 21, 2026
Wednesday, November 18, 2026

Wednesday, December 17, 2026

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About Us

Consumers

Youth Empowerment Speaks

Whether you are in recovery, currently receiving treatment, or supporting a loved one facing substance use challenges, you are welcome to become part of the Queens Consortium on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse community.

QCASA is committed to bringing together individuals in recovery, family members, prevention professionals, treatment pro

QCASA is committed to bringing together individuals in recovery, family members, prevention professionals, treatment providers, and community advocates in a collaborative and supportive environment. We believe that the voices and experiences of consumers are essential in shaping effective services, strengthening recovery supports, and promoting meaningful change within our communities.

By fostering open communication and partnership between the recovery community and service providers, QCASA continues to build a stronger network of education, advocacy, prevention, treatment, and recovery support throughout Queens County and surrounding areas.

Everyone is welcome to attend, participate, and contribute to our shared mission of hope, healing, and recovery.

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Youth Empowerment Speaks

Mission Statement

We, the youth of Youth Empowerment Speaks (Y.E.S.), are committed to being leaders within our communities by helping friends, supporting peers, and encouraging family members to make healthy and informed choices regarding drug and alcohol use. We strive to make a positive difference for all individuals and families impac

Mission Statement

About Us

Youth Empowerment Speaks (Y.E.S.) is a youth-driven organization guided by dedicated professionals that provides education, awareness, and support around important issues affecting young people today, including bullying, substance abuse, peer pressure, mental health, and healthy decision-making.

Our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and confidential environment where young people can openly discuss the challenges they face, support one another, and develop effective coping skills and leadership abilities. Through peer connection and mentorship, Y.E.S. empowers youth to build confidence, resilience, and positive pathways for the future.

Each year, Y.E.S. hosts a Youth Summit that welcomes more than 200 teens from all five boroughs of New York City for engaging workshops, educational presentations, and meaningful discussions about issues impacting today’s youth and communities.

Y.E.S. leaders also participate in community presentations and educational events, helping adults better understand the realities and pressures facing young people today. Through these outreach efforts, Y.E.S. highlights how peer support, education, and empowerment can inspire positive change in the lives of adolescents and young adults.

In addition, Y.E.S. provides guidance and support on recognizing the signs of drug and alcohol misuse, exploring healthy alternatives, strengthening coping strategies, and connecting individuals and families with treatment and recovery resources when needed.

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