Day in May fundraising event to support people, families struggling with substance use disorder

Benefiting local nonprofit organization, the Courage Center

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)- Mental health and substance use disorders are at the forefront of public health concerns across the nation, and overdose deaths are sadly growing each year in South Carolina, increasing by more than 25% from 2020 to 2021, according to the Department of Health and Environmental Control.

One local nonprofit is encouraging you get involved in their mission to provide a safe, supportive setting for individuals and families making their journey to recovery from substance misuse and substance use disorders, and reach out to them if you need help.

“Last year we had over 2500 group participants, with over 600 new participants, which means it’s out there, it’s needed. The recovery world is a big business now and people can use us as a resource. A lot of times it’s not necessarily the person with the substance use disorder that makes that first call, it’s the family,” says John Brunty, Community Outreach Coordinator with the Courage Center.

Brunty says the nonprofit organization does one-on-one coaching with families, one-on-one coaching with the person struggling with substance-use, group coaching, meetings, among other services.

On May 16th, the community can get involved in supporting the Courage Center’s efforts to continue providing this free resource to those in need with their Day in May Lunch event held on May 16, from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm at The Founders Zone in Williams Brice Stadium in Columbia, SC.  Featuring Edwin McCain, an American singer-songwriter and guitarist from Greenville, SC with top hits “I’ll Be” and “I could not ask for more.” Join Edwin as he shares his experience, strength, and hope for life in recovery.  Admission to the “Day in May” lunch event is free, but we ask that you make a $50 donation to The Courage Center. This donation will not only cover the cost of your lunch, but will also provide 1 hour of a recovery coaching session from a certified peer support specialist to an individual or family member in need of recovery services. Click here for more information and ways to give back.