Recognizing September 2005 as National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month.

Whereas

, The devastating effects of alcohol and drug addiction have destroyed the lives and families of countless Americans; and

Whereas

, During National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month, we recognize the dangers of substance abuse and renew the hope of overcoming addiction for individuals across our Nation; and

Whereas

, This year's theme, "Join the Voices for Recovery: Healing Lives, Families and Communities," encourages those striving to recover from this disease and recognizes the many families, support organizations, faith based and community groups, and volunteers working to help overcome addiction; and

Whereas

, Substance abuse leads to a cycle of addiction and despair that too often causes disease and death among young people; and

Whereas

, Assessing our citizen’s needs for addiction treatment and referring them to appropriate treatment and their family members to support services is a crucial first step in helping people realize that recovery is possible and treatment is effective; and

Whereas

, Just as drug and alcohol problems affect all areas of the community, so too does recovery depend on the cooperation and support of friends, neighbors, community leaders, and health care professionals; and

Whereas

, For many in our community, alcohol and drug use disorders take an enormous toll, but we do not have to let them solve their problem alone. Daily, throughout every part of the United States, men, women, and youth are entering treatment and beginning the road to recovery. Entire families are breaking the cycle of addiction and embracing recovery through support programs and counseling services such as Recovery King Sanctuary of God. Our community salutes those in our neighborhoods who are in recovery and the counseling and program staff that brought them out of the darkness; now therefore

Resolved

, By the Council of the City of Philadelphia, That we call upon all citizens to observe September 2005 as National Alcohol and Drug Recovery Month.

Further Resolved

, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Ira Potter of Recovery King, as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

End