Addiction Recovery Awareness Campaign Launches In Blue Bell Event

BLUE BELL, PA -- Forty years ago, discussing the subject of drug and alcohol addiction was taboo, yet millions suffered silently from the disease.

On May 8, 1976, a group of 53 celebrities, government leaders, sports figures, physicians, and even an astronaut who walked on the moon spoke openly about the stigma of addiction.

Each of them, including Dick Van Dyke and Buzz Aldrin, publicly proclaimed their status as recovered alcoholics at a carefully staged press event hosted by National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) in Washington, D.C., called “Operation Understanding.”

This was an unprecedented show of public support and call for action to reduce the stigma associated with addiction and provide encouragement to those struggling to seek help.

During that same year, a small group of local volunteers began a grassroots campaign to raise awareness of issues associated with alcoholism and other drug addictions while highlighting the importance of education and prevention.

This group became The Council of Southeast Pennsylvania (The Council), which today is one of the most vital alcohol and drug prevention and intervention agencies in the nation. The Council provides evidence-based programming to more than 15,000 individuals annually and has received national recognition for its cutting-edge, integrated programs.

To celebrate these milestones and kick off its year-long recovery awareness campaign, The Council will host a “Thriving in Recovery” gala on Thursday, May 5, at 6 p.m. at Normandy Farm in Blue Bell, Pa.

Special guests include Operation Understanding participant and Emmy-nominated screenwriter William G. Borchert, who wrote the book and screenplay “My Name is Bill W.,” based on the story of Alcoholics Anonymous founder Bill Wilson. His latest book, “How I Became My Father … A Drunk,” was released in October 2015.

The gala will be hosted by Gary Hendler of Clean and Sober Radio. In attendance will be special guest former Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Bernie Parent.

There will be an awards ceremony honoring Borchert who has proactively fought the stigma associated with addiction and has provided education, hope and inspiration to millions to sustain long-term recovery. William C. McDonald will also be honored with the first annual Thriving in Recovery award, named the William C. McDonald Thriving in Recovery Award, for exemplifying thriving in sustained, long-term recovery. The celebration will continue with big band music from Monday Blues Jazz Orchestra.

The new “Thriving in Recovery” year-long campaign recognizes that many individuals and families struggle with the devastating effects of addiction, yet this illness can be managed.

Twenty-three million Americans today have learned how to thrive in sustained, long-term recovery.

The Council is planning many year-long activities and education events to dispel myths associated with addiction as well as to present options and hope for those seeking to access and sustain long-term recovery. The campaign will also raise much needed funds to help broaden The Council’s programs, services and reach into the community.

To learn more about the campaign, investment opportunities, purchase tickets to the gala, and other ways to become involved and offer support throughout the year, please contact Melanie Boyd at 215.345.6644 or visitwww.councilsepa.org.