We recently spoke with Steven Hall of Together We can Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Society in Vancouver to find out more about what they do and how our readers can get involved.
Describe your charity/non-profit in a few sentences.
Together We Can Drug & Alcohol Recovery & Education Society (TWC) has been operating in the lower mainland since 1993. We aim to help individuals and their families recover from the impact of problematic substance use. Through personalized counselling, medical care, and holistic therapies, we can empower each person to use new skills and coping mechanisms. These skills will help propel them to a place of integrity, honesty, and respect. We hold a strong belief that giving back to our community is important and empowers our residents to gain confidence, self-esteem and show respect to our neighbourhoods.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Our primary goal is to provide addiction treatment and education to men and women struggling with addiction and help their families heal alongside their loved one.
When did you start/join it?
I am an alumnus of Together We Can and started my recovery journey on July 18, 2021. TWC first opened its doors on October 21, 1993.
What made you want to get involved?
As someone new in recovery, I could see the power of helping others from the care, compassion, and understanding that I received at TWC. After my primary treatment, I began volunteering with the organization and have since been hired full-time. There is actual value in one addict helping another.
What was the situation like when you started?
Together We Can serves 300 residents in its network of primary care and sober living residences. When I came to TWC as a resident, the care and understanding I received were what I needed. The best part of the organization is that most of the staff are in recovery themselves. I was given a unique opportunity to learn and be supported by empathetic individuals.
How has it changed since?
Since I came to Together We Can in 2018, we have expanded our counselling team. We have started a new medical centre, serving each resident. The medical centre is staffed by three Physicians specializing in addiction, a Registered Nurse, a Dietician, a Medication Coordinator, and a Medical Coordinator. TWC has also built an on-site fitness centre to encourage residents to regain their physical health and confidence.
What more needs to be done?
With the overdose crisis in BC, TWC is uniquely positioned to provide abstinence-based treatment and therapies to those seeking freedom from addiction. We need to reach more people and educate the community about the true impact of addiction and the hope of recovery for these individuals. Individual support is key in creating healthier, stronger communities.
How can our readers help?
Reach out to TWC in support of being a part of the solution to addiction. Learn more about mental health and addictions by speaking to the non-profits in your communities. Show empathy towards those who are struggling and support the organizations that are trying to make a change.
Do you have any events coming up?
Together We Can is excited to announce its annual fundraiser gala on November 17, 2021, via a virtual platform. This year’s fundraiser focuses on mental, emotional, and physical health while also raising awareness of the untold impact of the continuing overdose epidemic. You are invited to learn more about the event at www.twcgala.com.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
We love our friends at Stigma-Free Society!
They have played a pivotal role in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health and addictions in the province since 2010.