A NOTE FROM PHIL WARREN, CEO
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2024 REDEFINING RECOVERY GALA
OnNovember1,2024,AboveandBeyondhosteditsAnnualRedefining RecoveryGala,anunforgettableeveningdedicatedtocelebratingresilience, community,andinnovationinrecovery.Thisyear’seventbroughttogethera diversegroupofsupporters,performers,andadvocates,allunitedbya sharedcommitmenttotransforminglivesthroughcompassionateand evidence-basedcare
SpecialGuestJohannHari
ThehighlightoftheeveningwasapowerfulkeynoteaddressbyJohannHari, NewYorkTimesbestsellingauthorandrenownedadvocateforreimagining substanceabusetreatmentHari’sthought-provokingspeechchallengedthe statusquoofconventionalrecoverymethods,emphasizingtheneedfor approaches that truly meet individuals where they are. Hari commended Above and Beyond’s dedication to harm reduction and innovative recovery programs, noting how the organization is reshaping the narrative around addiction treatment.
ACommunityEffort
The success of the gala would not have been possible without the collective efforts of so many. From our keynote speaker,JohannHari,toourinspiringhostChrisHensleyandtheincrediblemusicianswhoperformed,tothesponsors, galacommittee,andthehundredsofattendees thankyouformakingthiseveningatriumph.Yourbeliefinourmission andyourgenerosityhaveleftanindeliblemarkonthiscommunity.
TheImpactofYourSupport
This year’s gala raised crucial funds to sustain and expand Above and Beyond’s mission of providing free, evidencebased,andlong-termaddictionrecoverytreatmenttoindividualswhoneeditmost.Thesefundsdirectlysupport:
Harmreductionservicestailoredtomeetclients’uniqueneeds.
Innovativerecoveryprogramsgroundedincutting-edgeresearchandpractice. Wrap-aroundserviceslikehousingplacement,employmentreadiness,andmentalhealthcare.
Thanks to the unwavering support of our community, we can continue offering transformative services to individuals who otherwise might not have access to high-quality care. Your contributions enable us to foster hope, resilience, and healingforthemostvulnerableamongus
LookingForward
As we reflect on this incredible evening, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who made it possible. The 2024 RedefiningRecoveryGalawasn’tjustacelebration itwasareaffirmationofthepowerofcommunityandthebeliefthat changeispossible.Together,weareredefiningrecoveryandbuildingafuturewhereeveryindividualhastheopportunity tothrive.
STORY CATCHING
SAM’S JOURNEY: FINDING FAMILY IN RECOVERY
SamwasbornandraisedinChicago,inthesameneighborhoodas AboveandBeyond.Oneofelevenchildren,healwaysfeltliketheblack sheepofhisfamily.Byfifteen,hewasonhisown,caughtinacycleof addictionthatledhimtosixprisonsentences.Hestillloveshisfamily, butheknowstheirlifestyledoesn’talignwithhisgoalofstayingsober sohechoosesdistancewhennecessary.
Histurningpointcameincountyjail,whenhereceivedthedevastating newsthathisdaughterhadpassedaway.Atthatmoment,he surrendered.Insteadofreturningtoprison,hechoseadifferentpath treatment.Hecompletedadrug rehabilitationprogram,thenspentayearandahalfatSafeHaven,rebuildinghisfoundation.
“The people at Above and Beyond are my family now connecting with them helps me stay sober.”
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