5K Bird Walk for Recovery
APA Statement on Proposed Cuts to SAMHSA
The American Psychological Association (APA) and APA Services Inc. strongly oppose proposed cuts to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), warning that a 50% staff reduction—following a prior 10% cut—would severely hinder the nation’s ability to address mental health and addiction crises. SAMHSA provides crucial early intervention services, including suicide prevention and substance use treatment, which improve public health outcomes.
The agency’s efforts have contributed to a decline in overdose deaths and the success of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. APA urges the administration and Congress to protect SAMHSA and continue bipartisan efforts to support mental health services.
Shame may make you hesitate to tell your story - but your story is powerful and will help to save lives. Your loved one’s story matters. Your story matters.
Sylvia Gibbs, Founder
The Human Experience
Stories of Hope, Healing, and Inspiration is much more than a book about the human experience.
It is a history book, as told by individuals who have bravely shared their personal experiences. It is a Geography book with stories by people who have ‘been there’ and made way for you when you thought there was no way. Lastly, it is a book about allowing yourself to heal from trauma and be inspired to make a difference.
Whether you prefer the convenience of a Kindle or the tactile experience of a paperback, The Human Experience: Stories of Hope, Healing, and Inspiration is available in both formats. And the best part? You can find it on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4IVpBR0, ready to be delivered to your doorstep.
Join Us for Our Educational Webinar Series, ‘Bird Seeds’, on Behavioral Health and Recovery!
Are you or someone you know navigating the challenges of substance use and mental health recovery? Our upcoming webinar series is designed to provide valuable insights, strategies, and support to help individuals on their journey to healing.
Women’s History Month
March is Women's History Month!
Laying stigma aside we celebrate the history of Black women in recovery.
We celebrate the courage of these women, and other women who may be in long-term recovery or recovery for just one day.
Jean Kirkpatrick - founded Women for Sobriety, an alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous.
Chaney Allen - author of “I’m Black and I’m Sober” highlighting the unique challenges faced by Black women in their journey for sobriety.
Vanessa Church - leader of the African American Faith-Based drug ministries movement.
Tonier Cain – a person in long-term recovery, former team leader for the National Center for Trauma. Informed Care at SAMHSA, expert, advocate, speaker on trauma informed care and CEO of ‘Neen Cares’ an organization that specializes in trauma informed addictions recovery.
Mary J. Blige – the Queen of Hip-Hop, increased recovery awareness by openly disclosing her long-term recovery from alcohol and cocaine dependence.
Whoppi Goldberg – a person in long-term recovery overcame addiction to become a successful comedienne, actress, talk show host, and activist.
This list of African American women who have made (and are making) a difference in promoting resistance to and recovery from alcohol and other drug Problems.
By Mark Sanders and William White
September 30, 2024
National Recovery Month Observed
Zoom Webinar
National Recovery Month is an observance held every September to educate communities that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with mental and/or substance use disorders to live healthy and rewarding lives. The theme is “Every Person. Every Family. Every Community.”
October 12, 2024
Overdose Lifeline Outpacing the Stigma 5K
1100 W 42nd Street Indianapolis, IN US
The 5K Bird Walk for Recovery is a 501c3, not-for-profit organization. Since 2016, it has raised funds for organizations that support those living in recovery and their families through our own 5K walks and those of other not-for-profit organizations serving Indiana. This year, we are raising funds for Overdose Lifeline’s Outpacing the Stigma 5K, held in Indianapolis, Indiana, on October 12, 2024.