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The Changing Dynamics of Addiction and Homelessness Introducing the author of this article in a few sentences is a very arduous task. Bert has been working with us as a volunteer for over 10 years. He has led an educational series of meetings every Monday night for that same period. He was also the Chairman of our Board of Directors at a time when we were going through some growing pains and his vision and hard work led us through. We recently had an opportunity to offer Bert a career as a counselor, he accepted and we are thrilled that he did.
The homeless male population of Cobb County is presenting new challenges to The Extension’s Program of Recovery. They are younger with unique problems of their age group. Their addiction problems are compounding and becoming more difficult to address. Illegal drugs are becoming more potent and toxic. The methamphetamine addict is addicted to a product with ingredients that increase the potency, contributing to the destruction of his body from within. His choice of drug creates astounding dental, medical and mental problems. Younger alcoholics are appearing that are also addicted to cocaine. This combination is metabolized into a new chemical cocaethylene and its damaging effect is being assessed. Cocaethylene has been associated with seizures, liver damage, and compromised functioning of the immune system. Drug addiction clinics say they are becoming increasingly concerned by the health risks associated with the chemical – the only known example of the body forming a third drug following the ingestion of two others. Dramatic increases in illegal prescription drug use in recent years have been among youth. Non-medical prescription drug use is often accompanied by other illicit drug use: one study found that 63 percent of 12- to 25-year-olds who had used prescription drugs non-medically in the past year. It is estimated that 60 to 70 percent of homeless alcoholic/addicts show signs of co-occurring disorders. Many people with alcohol and substance abuse problems also have other mental or personality disorders. The Extension continues to make adjustments to meet these new and challenging problems of homeless alcoholics/addicts. In addition to the standard mandatory proven programs already in place at the Extension, the below have been added: A new 12 Step meeting Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA) targeting the alcoholic/addict with co-occurring disorders has been established. A 12 Step Facilitation Program has been established requiring 15-18 additional counseling sessions. Study Guides have been written for each step of the program. The Facilitator coordinates the implementation of the various 12 Step Programs between the Residents and an outside sponsor group of over 40 volunteers. A Prayer & Meditation Meeting and an Ego Discussion Group has been organized and led by alumni and residents. These meetings prepare them to continue the Program of Recovery after transitioning out of The Extension. With the vital assistance of The Extension’s Program volunteers, and monetary supporters, the challenge can be met. These programs will continue to be a model for other programs and recognized as some of the leading Recovery Programs in the country for homeless alcoholics and addicts.
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Shop, Save and help The Extension Do you like to shop? Get a head start on Christmas shopping or treat yourself and a friend to something new. Why not help The Extension while you treat yourself.
The Extension is participating in Stein Mart’s Give & Save Charity Days which helps support local nonprofits. It is designed to bring the community together in a fun and profitable venture that benefits charities and their supporters. Unlike raffles and sweepstakes, Stein Mart’s Give & Save Charity Days tickets are a win-win proposition! Ticket buyers get valuable Stein Mart coupons worth far more than the cost of their $5 ticket. Participating nonprofits keep every dollar they make on sales to friends, family, supporters and the general public – without paying a penny for printing, distribution or anything else.
Receive $5 off and 15% off your entire purchase.
Each ticket entitles you to use your coupons once during the
four-day Stein Mart’s Give & Save Charity Days event from September
23 through September 26, 2010. Tickets are good at all Stein Mart
stores.
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Help The Extension Meet the Challenge
As part of its ongoing efforts to raise money, The Extension has received a grant from a family foundation, but the money is contingent on support from the community. This grant is a challenge grant which challenges The Extension and it’s supporters to develop ways to garner support from the community. The intent of the foundation is to grow our individual donor base, and of course gifts received. The Foundation will match every dollar we receive from new donors to the organization by December 31, 2010. For example, if a new donor makes a donation to The Extension in the amount of $100, the Foundation will match that donation with $100. There is a limit of $25,000 total that will be matched. The board and staff of The Extension realize that these are hard times for many but just imagine what our residents are facing given the obstacles they face on a daily basis. Addiction leads to job loss, loss of family support, depression, homelessness, and much more. Every dollar that is given to The Extension makes a difference! Many employers will match an employee’s donation. Ask your employer if they will match your gift to The Extension and your dollar will triple! You can be creative with your donation. Are you on Facebook or Twitter? Ask your friends to make a donation to The Extension. Do you like to entertain? Have a party at your home and ask for donations. How about an office fundraiser? There are so many ways you can help The Extension. This is a challenge that we have accepted with faith. We know we can do it—with your support!!
Donations can be
mailed to:
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