Alcoholism and addiction are illnesses that affect millions of people in the US each year. Addiction is a disease that does not discriminate between age, sex, race, religion or economic status. An addicted person is unable to stop drinking or taking a particular mood-altering substance despite serious health, economic, vocational, legal, spiritual and social consequences.
"As an alternative to the traditional New Year's parties, the alcohol-free New Year's celebration is a great event for the entire family to attend," said David Kaptain, manager of treatment services at Powell Chemical Dependency Center. "People will be able to enjoy this event without feeling the pressure to drink or even be around people who have been drinking."
The Powell Chemical Dependency Center (CDC), Powell CDC Alumni Association, VERITAS, United Community Services, and Employee and Family Resources will be hosting the alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration at the Des Moines Botanical Center. The event will include great music, food, dancing and 12 step meetings. The cost is $5 and donations will be accepted to help fund next year's event.
"Statistics have always shown that one in 10 people suffer from addiction," said Kaptain. "And those who don't have an addiction have people in their lives that do, such as a spouse, child, extended family member, friend or coworker. People in recovery need options for sober and recovery-related activities and this event is a great way to bring in the New Year sober and free."
Treatment centers believe that alcoholism and addiction are treatable. Treatment and recovery can begin with any of our sponsoring organizations. Powell CDC, United Community Services and Employee and Family Resources have served many thousands of individuals and their family members with a variety of services which include: evaluations and assessments, detoxification, numerous treatment options, family programs, education and counseling.
"Treatment is a safe and supportive setting where people can face their drug use and learn to make healthy choices," said Kaptain. "It allows people to work with their families and significant others to rebuild lives and achieve sobriety. This event is a celebration of the hard work people do every day to recover."