Celtics Superstar Chris Herren Coming to Newport November 30 at 6pm- a riveting story of recovery from heroin and cocaine. 

Journey to Recovery Community Center and Northeast Kingdom Human Services are excited to announce they are bringing former NBA Celtics superstar Chris Herren to the Northeast Kingdom. Chris is coming to tell his powerful story of resurrection after falling into heroin and cocaine addiction. After four overdoses and seven felonies, Chris has revolutionized his life and spends time helping bring others out of the darkness of addiction. Chris Herren will be speaking at North Country Union High School on Thursday, November 30. Appetizers at 5:30 pm, introduction of leaders and then presentation at 6 pm. Chris is a riveting speaker who brings an authentic and impactful voice and message- his story is relatable no matter who you are and how you may or may not have been impacted by substance use disorder. You will be impacted- Chris’s message is that powerful. Chris touches on subjects such as peer pressure in high school, lack of confidence, and the need for coping skills and connection.  We cannot turn our heads and deny that our community and state is experiencing a substance use crisis.  Mr. Herren spoke at both North Country High School and Lake Region High School last May. One student reflected after the presentation that “Chris made being sober cool.” Another said that Chris “brought to light exactly what he was going through, and helped me believe that things can get better.”  We need this message now more than ever.  As the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our communities and loved ones, normalizing and prioritizing discussions around substance use are more important than ever.

The way Chris delivers his message is a gift and we want you all here to receive it. Chris sends the message loud and clear that there are alternatives to using drinking and drugs to feel better, to connect with others, to cope with hard things. We are at a critical moment in time, where more teens and families are experiencing mental health issues than ever before. We have to be outspoken about the fact that prescriptions alone cannot fix mental health issues, stress and trauma. Connection and coping skills, understanding and support are a big part of what makes a healthy person and society.

Addiction and mental health issues do not discriminate and are tearing apart families across the economic spectrum. We have to come together in order to get ahead of this very real problem.

We hope to see you out enjoying the presentation at North Country High School on November 30, and be a part change. With education and understanding, we can make all difference.

Please reach out to RSVP or to ask any questions to Lila Bennett, Executive Director of Journey to Recovery Community Center at lbennett@jtr-cc.org or (802) 624-3844.