At this year’s AGM, Executive Director John Neufeld shared an inspiring message of hope in addressing the ongoing opioid crisis.
An incredible group of nearly 300 community members came out to House of Friendship’s 80th AGM on Tuesday, June 18 in support of our shared mission of walking with those who need food, housing, community resources or addiction treatment.
We’re so thankful for this engaged and passionate audience who took the time out of their busy schedules.
After the business meeting, Executive Director John Neufeld shared about Addiction as a Health Issue.
John challenged us to treat addiction just like any other health issue – with treatment, research on best practices, refinement of treatment practices, and prevention.
“With mental health and addiction, there is so much stigma,” said John. “We spend so much of our time fighting stigma that we have no time to focus on best practices.”
“We don’t treat it as a health issue. We are still stuck with treating it as a moral issue of poor choices. So we have a lot of awareness, a lot of data – we know that people are dying left and right – but we’re not extending treatment options and we’re not doing enough research, because we’re too busy fighting about safe injection sites.”
Guests were invited to learn more about the complex issue of addiction and how they can be part of the solution, through the following materials:
“We know there is a lot of stigma around addiction, and we’re trying to change that, but it will take some time,” said John. “We have to go back to the basic principle of love thy neighbour, the Golden Rule. Remember, the opposite of addiction is not sobriety, it’s human connection.”
We all have a role to play, said John.
He also pointed out that the odds were that a member of the audience was either struggling with addiction, or caring for someone dealing with addiction.
“Please know that there is help.”
A wide range of services are provided through House of Friendship’s Addiction Treatment Services, and can be accessed by calling HERE24-7 (1-844-437-3247).
The board also recognized citizen groups who actively participate in strengthening and supporting those in need in our community. Citizens for Cambridge were presented with the 2019 Buhr Legacy of Friendship, on behalf of all citizen groups, in recognition for their community work in addressing the opioid crisis. Dan Clements, representing Citizens for Cambridge, received the recognition from Executive Director John Neufeld and Board President Mary Friesen.
The AGM adjourned with the traditional strawberry social, with strawberries graciously provided by Herrles Country Market.
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