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The HOPE Family Drug Summit, a free event aimed at helping families impacted by substance use disorder, will be held on January 15, 2025, at the University of Charleston in West Virginia. The summit, hosted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia, marks an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to provide resources, support, and hope to individuals and families struggling with addiction.
The event, which is open to all families impacted by the drug epidemic, is designed to strengthen partnerships and provide a space for participants to share their experiences. The summit’s goal is to inspire hope and to give attendees the tools they need to navigate the challenges associated with substance use disorder.
This summit is part of U.S. Attorney Will Thompson’s legacy and vision for addressing the drug crisis in the region. Thompson, who has served as U.S. Attorney since 2021, reflects on his career and the significant strides made in shifting focus toward recovery and empathy in law enforcement and judicial approaches to addiction. “I’ve devoted a lot of my professional life to trying to address [the drug epidemic],” Thompson stated, acknowledging the critical need for a more compassionate and effective response.
Under Thompson’s leadership, the Southern District of West Virginia has implemented various changes, such as targeting higher-level drug dealers and traffickers instead of street-level offenders. These shifts aim to address the root causes of addiction while continuing to hold bad actors accountable. As Thompson prepares to step down from his role, he hopes the HOPE Family Drug Summit will serve as a meaningful tribute to the progress made in the fight against the opioid and overdose epidemic.
Thompson also emphasizes the importance of family support in the recovery process. “The first person that generally will realize that someone in their family is suffering from addiction is a family member,” he explained. By educating families on how to recognize the signs of addiction and providing information on treatment options, the summit aims to empower families to take proactive steps toward helping their loved ones.
The event is not just about offering resources; it also aims to create a space for sharing success stories. Families who have benefited from the treatment court programs will have the opportunity to share their experiences, offering hope and inspiration to others at different stages of recovery. This communal aspect of the summit will reinforce the idea that recovery is possible, even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Thompson is hopeful that the summit will foster a positive shift in how the general public views substance use disorder. “People are realizing that addiction is a disease, not a moral failure,” he said, noting that more people in West Virginia are embracing programs that support recovery and acknowledging the role of law enforcement in ensuring accountability and safety in these efforts.
Those interested in attending the summit are encouraged to register online. The event will provide a wealth of information, resources, and support to help families in West Virginia and beyond find hope and healing in their journey with addiction.
If you or your loved one are struggling with addiction, and would like to reach lasting recovery, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery. Our team of expert staff have helped thousands of individuals overcome their addictions, and they can help you too. Addiction may be strong, but with the right tools and support, you can be stronger. Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community and begin your journey to sobriety.