Beyond Programs: How Third Spaces Strengthen Community Connection and Prevention

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Community connection is a powerful protective factor — yet many communities are experiencing increased social isolation, loneliness, and a loss of shared, substance-free spaces to gather. As traditional prevention efforts struggle to keep pace with changing social dynamics, third spaces have emerged as a promising upstream strategy to strengthen belonging, reduce isolation, and support healthier communities.

This free webinar will explore how third spaces, community-led, substance-free gathering spaces that exist outside of home and work or school, function as an environmental prevention strategy, not a programmatic intervention. Drawing from research, practice, and real-world examples, IPS will share how communities can intentionally design, activate, and sustain third spaces that reflect local culture, priorities, and leadership.

Topics discussed will include:

• What third spaces are and how they differ from traditional prevention programs
• Why social connection, belonging, and community ownership matter for prevention
• How third spaces increase protective factors and address conditions that influence substance use
• Equity, accessibility, and cultural relevance in third space design
• An overview of IPS’s Third Spaces Playbook and how it can be applied locally

The webinar will also feature a case study from West Hollywood, highlighting large-scale third space activations rooted in arts, culture, and community leadership. Presenters will share lessons learned, what made these spaces successful, and what elements are most replicable across different community contexts.

This webinar is intended for public health professionals, community organizers, prevention practitioners, and local leaders interested in upstream, environmental approaches that move beyond programming to strengthen community connection and well-being.

Presenters: Gabey Rojas, Program Manager; Ruby Ramos, Prevention Specialist