A Walk-A-Thon to raise funds for Youth Challenge of Connecticut Inc.; a nonprofit residential substance abuse treatment organization licensed by the state of Connecticut, will be held Saturday, Sept. 21, rain or shine. Youth Challenge has been offering treatment and housing to people struggling with addiction and substance abuse for the past 43 years.
The face of addiction is constantly evolving. Where 10 to 20 years ago, marijuana, alcohol, heroin and cocaine were the major threats in addiction and substance abuse, the present-day dangers come more often in the form of socially “acceptable” addictions: prescription drugs and pharmaceuticals, anti-depressants, methadone, “huffing”and “whip-its,” to name a few. he more exotic the drug, the more eager people are to try it.
In order to raise awareness about the dangers facing spouses, parents, siblings, children and/or peers, Youth Challenge of Connecticut hosts an annual Walk-A-Thon. Youth Challenge invites the public to come out and participate in spreading the news about the forms, dangers and outcomes of addiction and substance abuse; but also about the help that is available to families, friends and individuals who desire it.
Those interested can be involved in the 8k Walk-A-Thon event by walking, volunteering or donating. Former.as well as current. students and their families and loved ones participate in the walk, encouraging themselves to keep overcoming and others to keep hoping. Everyone is encouraged to find “Sponsors” for the walk, thereby raising funds to keep the doors of the organization open to those in need.Valued community members have the opportunity to “match” funds, and also to contribute goods, services and event prizes. Individuals and organizations contributing certain amounts will receive special recognition in both in print and online media.
The Sept. 21 walk begins and ends at the Youth Challenge of CT Headquarters; 15-17 May St., Hartford. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., and the walk begins at 10 a.m. Refreshments will be provided.
Call 860-728-5199 to obtain sponsor sheets or for further information or visit http://www.youthchallenge.org/