Editorial: Building Hope: project seeks local support
By Ian Gillitzer
Building Hope, or the drop-in center, is a proposed gathering spot for people that would provide a safe and sober environment, where people can go to interact with other sober people, or people in recovery. It would allow people a safe place to ask for help, work on things such as setting boundaries, making amends, working on character defects and building a healthy support network.
The center would also help connect people with the proper resources based on that individual's needs. Building Hope can help individuals make those connections with the help and support of the community.
As they say, the opposite of addiction is connection.
It’s necessary to have a place where people can go and join the recovery community. The support they receive from their peers will give them the resources needed to move forward and regain control of their lives.
When someone needs help or support, they shouldn’t have to hit bottom or be charged criminally to be able to access the resources they need, such as programs offered through the county’s treatment court, which is only available to people who have received legal charges.
Addiction comes in various forms. From alcohol and drug abuse to gambling, eating habits, gaming and hoarding, among just about anything else you can imagine.
Not all addicts are drug and alcohol related or criminals. For example, people that have been over prescribed medication or veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Most if not all people that suffer from an addiction have a psychological or therapeutic need that they have tried to treat or remedy through their own behavior before turning to substance use.
In the recovery community, it has always been the practice to remain anonymous, but I'm reaching out to let people know that they are not alone and to reach those who still suffer in silence. Leaders make a stand and advocate what is necessary.
There will be another drop-in center meeting at City Hall on March 18 at 6:30 p.m.
