SMS Assist to support drug-addiction awareness for local youth

As part of Chicago-based SMS Assist’s commitment to the community, more than 50 employees will volunteer an estimated 500 man-hours to support the Deerfield, Ill.-based Jordan Michael Filler Foundation’s first annual golf outing on July 27, along with a corporate donation.

Proceeds from the event, which will be held at Briarwood Country Club in Deerfield, will support education programs for Lake County middle school students, high school students and their families to raise awareness, reduce stigma and address the health issues surrounding drug abuse.

The Jordan Michael Filler Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was established in honor of Jordan Filler, who lost his battle against a heroin addiction at the age of 23. To honor Jordan’s legacy, his family created the foundation in hopes of bringing awareness about drug addiction and imparting lasting change for future generations. Within the past year, the foundation has created drug-awareness education programs for children and parents and expanded a “text a tip” program, giving teens and young adults an opportunity to anonymously get help for themselves or others.

The foundation is also committed to helping pass H.R. 2646, the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, which is designed to empower parents and caregivers. The bill will allow families to work with doctors and mental health professionals to be meaningful partners in the front-line care delivery team, protecting health care providers who disclose necessary medical information to family members during times of crisis.

“This foundation does amazing work in educating kids and their parents about drug addiction. SMS Assist is proud to sponsor their efforts,” said Michael Rothman, SMS Assist chief executive officer.

SMS Assist has a long-standing commitment to giving back and creating strong, energetic communities where its employees, clients and affiliates live and work. The Jordan Michael Filler Foundation is one of seven major beneficiaries of SMS Serves, the company’s community giving program. The other major beneficiaries are Misericordia Heart of Mercy, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, Anti-Cruelty Society, Greater Chicago Food Depository, AdoptaPlatoon and St. Thomas of Canterbury Soup Kitchen.

To learn more about the Jordan Michael Filler Foundation, visit www.jordanfiller.org.