This year’s National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month theme is "Join the Voices for Recovery – Build a Stronger, Healthier Community." That is exactly what several graduates and staff members from Narconon Arrowhead have done, and their personal stories of having recovered from addiction are prominently displayed in the National Recovery Month kit.
One of the stories is from Narconon Arrowhead’s Executive Director Gary W. Smith. It reads, "For several years, my life revolved around drugs and my addiction. Then I came upon a rehabilitation program and it forever changed my life. After graduating from the program, I knew there was a great need among the people who were struggling with a drug or alcohol addiction. That is why I chose to give back to society and be one of the founding members of a rehabilitation program. In 16 years, it has become the premier rehabilitation and international training center. I am proud to be the executive director and help so many people rediscover their lives."
Smith’s organization, which is one of the largest and most successful drug rehabilitation and education programs in the country, uses the drug-free approach developed by American author and humanitarian L. Ron Hubbard.
The Recovery Month effort aims to promote the societal benefits of alcohol and drug treatment, praise the contributions of treatment providers and promote the message that recovery from alcohol and drug use is possible. The annual observance, held in September, is now in its 17th year and is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Many event-related resources are available at www.recoverymonth.gov.
"The significance of these personal stories being told is that they are proof that people can overcome addiction once and for all, and that it does not have to be a lifelong struggle," comments Cleo Glenn-McLaughlin, Senior Vice President of Narconon Arrowhead. Mrs. Glenn-McLaughlin has taken a leadership position in planning and coordinating Recovery Month activities in the state of Oklahoma.
Recovery advocates around the country are having celebrations, signing proclamations and running public service announcements to celebrate the lives saved and make others aware that help is available. Through their website you can also see events from years past, order free publications and post your own Recovery Month activities.
Narconon Arrowhead has been an active participant in Recovery Month activities by holding events and awareness campaigns over the last several years. To find out more about the program or to get help for a loved one in need, visit www.stopaddiction.com or call 1-800-468-6933.
