Escena Golf Course, Palm Springs, Friday, September 19th
By Lisa Morgan
It would seem that no one in our country is unaffected, either directly or indirectly, by a loved one or acquaintance struggling with addiction. This is national recovery month, and on Friday, September 19th Michael’s House and Heroes in Recovery will be doing their part to raise awareness and encourage recovery here in our local community. They will be hosting a golf tournament, sharing proceeds with proceeds with the Palm Springs Public Library and Safe House of the Desert. The goal is to raise funds to purchase materials to build a recovery section at the library that will give individuals resources to help them learn, understand and seek help regarding recovery for themselves or loved ones. Co-beneficiary, Safe House of the Desert, provides a transitional living place for young adults who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Many of these kids have aged out of the foster care system or are 18 and have been kicked out their homes unequipped to stand on their own. They receive education, job training and help with the social services that can help them live on their own. Safe house also provides 6 beds specifically for the chronically ill or those diagnosed with mental illness. They recently acquired a separate living space for 6 girls under the age of 18 that were commercially and/or sexually exploited through human trafficking. Approximately 90 % of the children in their organization require some form of addiction counseling as part of their care.
“According to Webster’s, a stigma is a set of negative or unfair beliefs held by society. Instead of viewing seeking treatment as a positive action, many people still consider issues with mental health and addiction a sign of weakness. In 2012, among the 23 million each year need help for addiction; only 3 million actually seek treatment. Heroes in Recovery is a movement ignited by Foundations Recovery Network and the widespread community of those who are in recovery from addiction and co-occurring disorders. Their goal is to help find the other 20 million– those who may not be seeking help due to the overwhelming stigma that often surrounds substance abuse and mental health disorders.”
Friday, September 19 @ 8 AM, Michael’s House Recovery Center will sponsor the first annual, Hero’s in Recovery, Break the Stigma Golf Tournament at the beautiful Escena Golf Course in Palm Springs. All level of golfers are welcome for the shot gun, best ball scramble. The tournament will be followed by an awards luncheon at 12:30 PM (non-golfers welcome). Later, at 5 PM, a beautiful “Welcome Reception” with Michael’s House staff will follow at the Desert Princess Resort.
Saturday, September 20th @ 7 PM, an open AA Speaker/Chip Meeting will be held, followed by a free, stand-up comedy show. Recovery comedian, Kurtis Mathews will present “Sober and Clean” comedy open to the public in the Desert Princess Ball Room. In 1984, Kurtis Matthews began his stand-up career at the Improv in Hollywood. That same year, he also embarked upon his own journey of recovery from alcoholism and drug abuse following a car accident and jail time.
Wednesday, October 8th: There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony, book signing and presentation at the Palm Springs Library, featuring author/celebrity Mackenzie Phillips.
Michael’s House is nationally recognized for providing integrated treatment for drug and alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief/loss, personality disorders and similar conditions. Located in Palm Springs, they have a modern, restorative facility with four campuses: Stabilization Center, Men’s Center, Women’s Center and Outpatient Center. They ensure safety and privacy for patients seeking healing and recovery. Please join them in their efforts to bring help and healing to the many in need.
“Whether you or a loved is struggling with addiction or mental illness, take that one giant step and reach out and get connected to those who can support you. The Palm Springs library new recovery resource library section can be one of those resources where you can begin to learn more about the path of recovery. Michael’s House dedication of this recovery resource speaks volumes on their support of the Coachella Valley community. Reach out to Michael House Outpatient for a free assessment now. They are here to support you in your finding the life you truly want to be living.” Krista Gilbert, Michael’s House, CEO
To register for golf and/or the luncheon, please visit BreaktheStigma.eventbrite.com
For sponsorship opportunities, call or email Renee Baribeau at 760-464-2138 or Renee.Baribeau@Frnmail.com
Escena Golf Course is located at 1100 Clubhouse View Drive, Palm Springs, CA
Desert Princess is located at 28555 Landau Blvd., Cathedral City, CA
Check out the heroesinrecovery.com website where you can read about the recovery path of real people.
Michael’s House is located at 2095 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262 or call at (760) 464-2138. A free, confidential, 15 minute assessment is available to anyone concerned for a loved one or currently experiencing problems with drugs or alcohol.
