Great Falls College’s Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling students and faculty hosted a resource fair to help the community learn all there is for those who are seeking help.
“One of our students this spring mentioned they didn’t think people knew all of the ways to find help in the area,” said Dr. Elfie Neber, Substance Abuse and Addictions Counseling program director at Great Falls College. “This resource fair was borne out of the idea of, ‘How can we get the word out?’”
There were about 35 organizations at Hope and Healing: A Recovery Resource Fair sharing the services they offer.
Neber said the services encompass all aspects of recovery, including employment, housing and self-care in addition to treatment options.
“Giving these organizations that personal touch is key,” she said. “If they meet someone and build a connection with them, they are more likely to reach out to them to help.”
Community leaders gave presentations throughout the event in Heritage Hall that were broadcast to those who were not able to make it to the event.
Attendees also were able to take a self-guided reflection Memorial Walk to help them remember and honor those who they have lost.
“This is a time to reflect, heal and find strength in our shared experiences as honor and remember those who have passed away due to substance abuse,” said Selena Coburn, sociology instructor at Great Falls College.”