A community event hosted in Maysville will help the public learn more about substance abuse addictions and local agencies available to help cope with the problem.
Battling the Beast is being coordinated by members of the 4-C, Concerned Citizens Community Coalition non-profit group on Thursday, June 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the Maysville Rotary Clubhouse on Bridge Street.
According to 4-C President Corey Newdigate and Vice President Dr. Cheryl French, the forum's focus is to help educate both family members and addicts on the problem of substance abuse addictions, like heroin or alcohol, and steps they can take to help improve the situation.
French said many people dealing with an addicted family member or friend don't realize they are enabling the problem, rather than helping solve the problem.
"A lot of people don't know the difference," French said.
Newdigate said helping members of the community understand the resources available locally will help address the public's naiveté about the growing addiction problem.
Battling the Beast will include guest speakers who will provide an overview of the problems, local and national statistics, and recovery programs available within the Department of Corrections for those incarcerated.
Agencies will be on hand to answer individual's questions on a one-on-one basis; provide literature on services; and talk about recovery programs such as sober living houses and treatment centers.
"This event is for people to get questions answered. The whole goal is to bring everyone together to help determine how to get help here," Newdigate said.
Another topic to be discussed is a proposed, privately owned methadone clinic, which is locating in downtown Maysville, Newdigate said. He said information will be provided on exactly what a methadone clinic can or cannot do to address addiction, and how other programs like Narcotics Anonymous or Alcohol Anonymous can help the addict and family members.
Battling the Beast is being funded by grant funds received by 4-C in the amount of $1,500, through the Buffalo Trace Agency for Substance Abuse Policy.
Agencies expected to participate include, but are not limited to: Comprehend Inc., Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Nar-Anon, Department of Corrections Probation and Parole, Maysville Police Department, Mason County Sheriff's Office, 19th Judicial District Drug Court, and New Hope Community Services.
Newdigate said city and county officials have been invited, as well as candidates running for public office in the November general election.
To sign on as a participating agency in Battling the Beast, call (606) 407-5955.
The Ledger Independent is online at: http://www.maysville-online.com
