Former NBA player shares his journey from addiction to a joyful life in recovery...
On Tuesday, September 28, GFO Home presented the Power of Prevention featuring former NBA star Chris Herren, benefiting Recovery Resource Council. Honorary Chair Taylor Stensrud, and Event Chairs Robin Bagwell and Jan Osborn welcomed approximately 230 enthusiastic supporters who gathered at the Preston Hollow home of Sandra Estess to hear Herren share his experiences as a young player under pressure to perform in the NBA, his struggles with drugs and alcoholism, and his recovery journey to today’s 13-years of sobriety. This annual event raised over $115,000 for low- and no-income North Texans to have access to free and accessible mental health care and addiction treatment. Guests were greeted by Ruthie’s Food Truck upon arrival and noshed on their delicious grilled sandwiches as attendees mixed and mingled and purchased raffle tickets for a chance to win a freshwater baroque pearl choker by Petra Jewelry valued at $2000, a Hydra Facial donated by Bella MD, or a $100 gift card donated by MaryBeth Boutique. Eric Niedermayer, CEO, Recovery Resource Council welcomed guests saying, “For 75 years Recovery Resource Council has been providing services to North Texas. The Council has new programs for Veterans and homeless in Dallas that will allow us to reach people needing mental health and addiction treatment by meeting some of their basic needs first. We now have the biggest prevention program in the state (serving 20 Counties throughout North Texas) and we are here to be the front door to treatment for the overlooked in our community.” Chris Herren recounted his recovery journey for the crowd, which has been documented in the bestselling memoir, Basketball Junkie, the Emmy-nominated ESPN Films documentary, 30 For 30: Unguarded, and in stories by The New York Times, The Boston Globe and Sports Illustrated, among others. Through Herren Talks, Chris has spoken to over 1 million students and community members, sparking honest discussions about substance use disorder and wellness.
Funds continue to be needed as the region sees an uptick in child abuse and domestic violence, and alcohol sales increase. The money raised through sponsorships, ticket sales and the silent auction at The Power of Prevention event supports a portion of The Council's operating budget. Funds raised will free up program dollars to provide more direct services including screenings, assessments, and outpatient services for addiction and substance use disorder, counseling for veterans and their families, and prevention education for at-risk children and youth. Special thanks to event sponsors: GFO Home, K&L Gates, Van Amburgh Family Foundation, Kim and Evan Wyly, Ryan Foundation, Robin and Norm Bagwell, Erin and Mike Barone, Jennifer and Jimmy Chiles, Lauren Gillette, Hartline LLP, Kathy and Larry Helm, Nancy and Jack Zogg. The evening’s virtual event sponsors included Lindsay Billingsley, Caroline Gehan, Vicki and Eric Niedermayer, and Vicki and Bruce Stensrud. Dallas Doing Good was the media partner for this event.
The Council is celebrating 75 years of service to North Texas in 2021 as the gateway to health and wellness for individuals and families seeking help with substance use disorders and mental health issues. Started in 1946 by members of Alcoholics Anonymous in Tarrant County to provide a link to State-funded treatment services for youth and adults, the Council’s footprint has grown to 20 North Texas counties. As a licensed Texas Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Site and Joint Commission Accredited agency, they embrace a continuum of care that includes prevention, education, counseling, treatment, and support services rooted in the principles of trauma-informed care and designed to identify and build upon the strengths and resilience of each individual. To learn more visit https://recoverycouncil.org/