Substance abuse is an epidemic that can impact communities of any size, making awareness an important tool. On Saturday, May 17th, the Door County Alcohol and Other Drug Coalition is partnering with Door County Department of Health & Human Services and United Way of Door County to host a film and discussion panel at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay.

The free community awareness event invites adults for a screening of Addict’s Wake, a story of recovery, relapse, and redemption. High school students may attend if accompanied by a parent or guardian due to some graphic scenes. The film takes place in a small county in Indiana, which is comparable in size to Door County and outlines the opiate epidemic in a community who believes these issues don’t exist in their area. 

Scott Dadam, a Behavioral Health Case Manager for Door County Human Services, spearheaded presenting the film locally and says it is an eye opening resource for everyone whether they know someone in active addiction or battle with it themselves. 

“We have a number of people who struggle with this in our community and sometimes they’re not even noticed because they tend to function on a regular daily basis,” said Dadam, “they can make it to work and they can do what they need to do, but they’re still struggling with addiction.” 

Following the film, complimentary sandwiches, chips, and cookies will be provided to attendees during the panel discussion. The panel will consist of therapists, a community member who is in recovery, as well as Dadam and key people in the community who offer services to help those facing addictions. 

“There is hope for those who are struggling with substance abuse and there is hope for those who are alongside those people,” said Dadam, “together, we can make an impact that will change our community.”

Doors will open at 4:30pm and the film will begin at 5pm. Those interested in attending are encouraged to pre-register here, or by calling United Way at (920) 421-2166.