Recovery Management at the Fairbanks Recovery Center Blog

The first year following treatment is critical, as individuals new to recovery establish supportive coping skills. Fairbanks offers group and individualized recovery management programming. These programs were established to help individuals in recovery stay connected to a healthy support system in order to achieve a recovery lifestyle that is characterized by sobriety, personal health and citizenship.

The staff of Fairbanks will be providing a weekly blog about these programs, events and tips.

Friday, July 30, 2010

Become a fan of Fairbanks on Facebook

Fairbanks has a fan page on Facebook. Get information about upcoming events, meetings and facility updates by joining. All supporters of Fairbanks are welcome to become fans. Click on the Facebook icon at the top of the page and log in to become a fan!

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Mark your calendar for the 2010 Fairbanks Annual Summer Picnic - August 14

Fairbanks is hosting its annual summer picnic Saturday, August 14th from 11:30am - 3:00pm. We hope you will join us as we celebrate Fairbanks' 65th birthday with new and old friends. Fairbanks alumni, volunteers and their families are all invited to attend. There will be good food, music, games and prizes. Please RSVP to Kathleen at kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Monday, June 7, 2010

Fairbanks Board Member, Dr. Christopher Stack, Receives Volunteerism Award at the NAATP Annual Addiction Treatment Leadership Conference

Fairbanks Board Member, Dr. Christopher Stack was recently honored with the Caron Treatment Center Dr. Jasper G. Chen See, M.D  Volunteerism Award at the NAATP (National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers) Board Reception, which is part of the 2010 NAATP Annual Addiction Treatment Leadership Conference in San Antonio, Texas.  

Dr. Stack has been actively involved with the Fairbanks Board of Directors since 2003. He currently serves on the finance and executive committees of the board.  After actively participating on a recovery school visionary planning committee with other Fairbanks board members, staff and parents of adolescents in treatment, Dr. Stack was instrumental in assisting in Fairbanks gaining approval from the Office of the Mayor and the Indianapolis City County Council to operate Hope Academy as a charter school.  

In 2005, he was elected as the first Chairman of the School Board of Hope Academy.  This first appointment has given Dr. Stack the opportunity to lay the groundwork for structured board development, growth and participation.  This commitment to structure and development led to Hope Academy being awarded very high scores on the annual survey conducted by the Indianapolis Mayor’s charter school evaluation committee.  Dr. Stack and the staff of Hope Academy work diligently to meet and exceed the performance and academic standards set by the state legislature for charter schools.

“We are extremely pleased to recognize individuals who have contributed so much of their volunteer time and energy to the community,” said Cathy Palm , Chairperson of the NAATP Board of Directors. “We want this award to inspire others to emulate the spirit of Dr. Chen See.”

Friday, May 14, 2010

Ice Cream Social - May 21

Fairbanks is hosting an Ice Cream Social coming up on Friday May 21st at 7pm. The party will take place in the new cafeteria at Fairbanks. Please join us as we celebrate 65 years of hope and recovery. We will be accepting donation, which will all go toward the Patient Assistance Fund. If you have questions or would like to attend this event, please contact Kathleen Gill at 317.572.9469 or kgill@fairbankscd.org. We hope you can join us for this celebration!

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Happy Birthday Fairbanks! Visit our history website!

Fairbanks is 65 years old! We have been serving men, women, adolescents and families who struggle with addiction for over six decades, which makes us the oldest independent treatment center in America! We are excited to celebrate and share our rich history with you. In honor of this history, Fairbanks has launched a website of our entire timeline from 1945 to today. Please visit this website and share it with everyone you know. Visit www.fairbankshistoryofhope.org and share a birthday wish or your personal story with us.

www.fairbankshistoryofhope.org

Friday, April 23, 2010

It’s National Volunteer Week

Did you know?

• Everyone working in the Gift Shop and the Coffee Shop are volunteers.
• Volunteers come in week nights from 6 -7pm and lead groups with the adult inpatients
• Volunteers work in the access center
• The SLP drivers are on call for over 13 hours a day
• Volunteers work in the gym and encourage physical activity as part of recovery
• Our entire Fairbanks Board of Directors, Circle of Hope Committee, Hope Academy Board of Directors and all other committees within Fairbanks serve as volunteers.

So when you see any of these volunteers this week, please give them a big THANK YOU and let them know that we appreciate what they do for Fairbanks. 

Friday, April 9, 2010

Fairbanks' Dr. Whiteman appears on Good Morning America to discuss Inhalant Abuse and Addiction

According to recent data from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 12 year-olds are more likely to use inhalants than cigarettes or marijuana.  Inhalants can range in products from keyboard cleaner, hair spray, shoe polish and air fresheners. In fact, there are hundreds of household items that can be used for inhaling or huffing to get high.

During the last month, this topic has received local and national media attention. Earlier this week Fairbanks Psychiatrist, Dr. Aaron Whiteman spoke with Dr. Richard Besser of Good Morning America to help inform and educate the nation about inhalant abuse and addiction. Watch the clip here.

For more information about inhalant abuse, please visit www.inhalants.org

Friday, April 2, 2010

April is Alcohol Awareness Month - Fairbanks offers education and treatment for alcoholism

Alcohol abuse and addiction is prevalent in our community, but often people assume alcoholics only exist within certain stereotypes. Addiction does not discriminate against age, race or socioeconomic status. It is important to be aware of the warning signs and symptoms of abuse and addiction. Knowing how to identify these signs could save someone’s life. 

Physical Signs:

• Loss or increase of appetite
• Personal grooming declines
• Inability to sleep, awake at usual times
• Pupils larger or smaller than usual
• Nausea, vomiting or excessive sweating
• Tremors or shakes or hands, feet or head

Behavioral Signs:

• Change in overall attitude or personality
• Change in activities or hobbies
• Drop in grades in school or performance at work
• Moodiness, irritability or nervousness
• Secretive or suspicious behavior
• Chronic dishonesty

Fairbanks offers educational sessions to local businesses Monday-Friday upon request. If you have questions about addiction and would like a speaker to visit your office, please call 317-572-9401 or e-mail sday@fairbankscd.org.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

The Third Annual Susan Li Conference, titled Supporting Recovery: From the Inside Out will be held June 3 and 4, 2010. This conference honors Susan Li, MSW, LCSW, LMHC, a licensed clinical social worker, for her continuing contributions to the fields of addiction and mental health.

This year's keynote speaker is Markus Heilig, MD, PhD, Clinical Director and Chief, Laboratory of Clinical and Translational Studies, NIAAA/NIH. Other experts in the field of addiction will also give presentations during this two day conference.

For more information, contact Megan Letourneau at mletourneau@fairbankscd.org or register online.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Helene Cross, president and CEO of Fairbanks, featured on the cover of Indianapolis Woman - March issue

Be sure to grab a copy of this month's Indianapolis Woman. In celebration of Fairbanks' 65 anniversary, Helene Cross is featured on the cover as well as a three page article about the mission of Fairbanks. Read the article here or pick up a copy today. What an outstanding honor!

Friday, February 26, 2010

Become a fan of Fairbanks on Facebook

Fairbanks now has a fan page on Facebook. Get information about upcoming events, meetings and facility updates by joining. All supporters of Fairbanks are welcome to become fans. Click on the Facebook icon at the top of the page and log in to become a fan!

Friday, February 19, 2010

Fairbanks 2010 Circle of Hope Dinner will feature Judy Collins

The ninth annual Fairbanks Circle of Hope Dinner will take place on Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. We are pleased to announce that Judy Collins will be the Keynote Speaker for this year’s event. More information about the Fairbanks Circle of Hope Dinner will be posted on the website soon. If you have any question about the event or are interested in purchasing a table or tickets, please contact Katy Cummings at 317-572-9398 or ccrichlow@fairbankscd.org

Friday, February 12, 2010

Fairbanks Celebrates 65 years of Hope

This year Fairbanks is celebrating our 65th anniversary. Here is how Fairbanks began...

Back in the mid-40s, little attention was paid to those who struggled with alcoholism. While a few persons were fortunate enough to receive help from their physicians, most were left to find their sobriety in jails, on the streets and in their homes.

In 1945 The Indiana Home for Alcoholic Men opened, and would become Fairbanks, the oldest Independent Treatment Center in the United States.

A community group formed a committee and purchased a home at 1341 North Alabama. Men struggling with alcohol dependence stayed at the Indiana Home for six days at a total cost of $60. They were detoxified by a method not uncommon then—gradually decreasing doses of alcohol.

Learn more about Fairbanks history in upcoming blogs.

Friday, February 5, 2010

Live Performances at the Fairbanks Recovery Center

Salvador Daili Llama Farm will perform live at The Fairbanks Recovery center on Saturday, February 27 from 6:45pm-7:45pm then again from 9:00pm-10:00pm. The performance on this evening will be all original music with heavy vocals. If you have questions about the Saturday night performances or are interested in auditioning, please contact Kathleen at kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Friday, January 29, 2010

Fairbanks to appear on A&E – February 1

Monday, February 1 at 9pm, Fairbanks will appear on A&E during a special TV program on inhalant abuse. During this hour long documentary, Dr. Aaron Whiteman will share his expertise about the signs, symptoms, dangers and products used for inhalant abuse. In addition to Dr. Whiteman being interviewed as the expert, a Hope Academy graduate will share his experience with addiction and recovery from inhalants.

Friday, January 22, 2010

A Reiki Clinic Offered at Fairbanks - January 27

Reiki Center of Indiana, a division of Center for the Heart and Soul, Inc., provides a Reiki Clinic for Fairbanks the last Wednesday of every month. The next clinic will be held on Wednesday, January 27 from 6:30pm – 9:00pm in the Recovery Center’s serenity room on the first floor.

Reiki energy is the life force energy that flows through every living thing.  Reiki restores the energy for the recipient to facilitate healing on all levels – physical, mental and emotional.  Reiki is a subtle, gentle, loving energy.  It is not affiliated with any particular religion or religious practice. 

Here are a few of the comments from Fairbanks’ patients after receiving a Reiki treatment

• "Extremely relaxed and calm"
• "Unstressed"
• "I came in with back pain and left with none"  
• "Amazing anxiety reduction"
• "Immense sense of peace"
• "Felt great – very uplifting"

For more information about this program, call the Reiki Center of Indiana at 317-259-4599

Friday, January 15, 2010

Live Performances at the Fairbanks Recovery Center

Live music at the Fairbanks Recovery Center will take place again on Saturday, January 23 from 6:45pm-7:45pm then again from 9:00pm-10:00pm. The performance on this evening will be blues and folk music. If you have questions about the Saturday night performances or are interested in auditioning, please contact Kathleen at kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Friday, January 8, 2010

Fairbanks 2010 Breakfast Series to begin Tuesday, January 12

The 2010 Fairbanks Breakfast Series will begin next Tuesday, January 12. Come learn about the programs and services offered at Fairbanks and have an opportunity to network with other local professionals. The breakfast will begin at 7am and end at 9am. After the presentation a tour of the facility will be offered.

In addition to monthly breakfasts, Fairbanks offers educational sessions to local businesses Monday-Friday upon request. If you are interested in attending a breakfast or having a speaker visit your office please call Sara Hastings at 317-572-9350 or e-mail shastings@fairbankscd.org

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Fairbanks Featured in Addiction Professional November/December Issue

The Fairbanks Recovery Center was recently featured in Addiction Professional's November/December issue in the Environment for Recovery section. Fairbanks was chosen because of continuous efforts to put an emphasis on recovery by building a facility and hosting recovery activities. Please read the article here.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Hope Academy receives $25,000 grant from the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation

Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks, recently received a $25,000 grant from the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation in honor of the children and families of Christel House. Hope Academy is a tuition-free charter high school for students in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. This grant will be used to provide art education for students at Hope Academy. The Christel DeHaan Family foundation is an organization supporting the arts, education and human needs in the United States.

The new arts education program will allow Hope Academy to offer additional elective credit hours, which students will be able to apply toward their core 40 diplomas. This program will help enhance the Hope Academy student’s learning experience through the arts. Hope Academy is grateful for being awarded this grant from the Christel DeHaan Family Foundation and looks forward to expanding the art education program each year.

The Christel DeHaan Family Foundation's grant making activity primarily focuses on arts and culture in the Indianapolis community. The goal is to meaningfully preserve and enhance for future generations the rich artistic and cultural fabric of the Indianapolis community. The foundation seeks to achieve this goal by selectively granting funds for general operating expenses to key arts and cultural institutions and or by investing in local organizations that effectively inspire an appreciation of arts and culture.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Fairbanks offers tips for a safe and sober holiday season

• At your holiday gatherings, offer plenty of nonalcoholic foods, drinks and activities.

• To lower the risk of alcohol poisoning, be sure to throw out partly empty alcoholic drinks. Children love to imitate adults, and if they have access to leftover drinks, they may taste the contents.

• Let your child know what you expect. Tell your child that adults may be drinking during the holidays but under no circumstances is he or she allowed to drink alcohol.

• Have a plan in place about what you and your family will do if you are at a party where there are people who have had too much to drink.

• Model responsible behavior by making sure that guests who have been drinking do not drive. Call a taxi or offer to have them stay overnight.    

• For your holiday meal, prepare and serve traditional drinks without alcohol. You can make nonalcoholic cider, eggnog or punch.

• If your older child is going to a holiday event, call ahead to make sure that the event will be alcohol and drug free. Check in with the party planners to see what measures are in place to keep alcohol out.

• If your family has had a stressful year due to job loss, a death or other challenges, consider an alcohol free season.  Alcohol is a depressant and may add to the stress.

If you have trouble controlling your alcohol consumption or know someone who does, make an appointment at Fairbanks for an assessment. You can talk to a counselor confidentially to determine how alcohol or drugs may be affecting your life or the life of a loved one. Call Fairbanks at 317.849.8222 or visit www.fairbankscd.org.

Tips provided by Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. 
Visit www.samhsa.gov for more holiday tips.

Friday, December 12, 2009

ATTC National Office announces Recovery School Winners of the
2nd Annual “In My Own Words…” Essay Contest

KANSAS CITY, MO., November 23, 2009 – In 2008, over 12 percent of youth in the United States aged 12 – 17 either abused or were dependent on alcohol.  Of the 1,2 million youths who needed treatment, only 77,000 received care at a dedicated treatment facility (2008, NSDUH).  Adolescents recently out of treatment are most vulnerable for relapse.   Recovery Schools have been very successful in offering a safe environment where students can continue on their recovery path as they work toward graduation.To encourage Recovery School students along their personal recovery journey, highlight the work of Recovery High Schools and College Communities, and motivate those who may be thinking about a profession in the addictions treatment and recovery services field, the Addiction Technology Transfer Center (ATTC) National Office, in partnership with the Association of Recovery Schools, recently announced the winners of the 2nd annual “In My Own Words…” essay contest.

These award winning short stories were selected from a rich pool of 65 submissions received between September 4, 2009 and October 16, 2009.   An Expert Review Panel evaluated the essays and, based on specific criteria, selected those they deemed to be first, second, and third place.  The following are the 2009 “In My Own Words …” essay contest award recipients:
High School:
1st place:  Gabrielle Owen  - Detroit Lakes Recovery School/Detroit Lakes, MN
2nd place: Lindsey Irvine - Serenity High School/McKinney, TX
3rd place: Sarah Goodman  - Hope Academy/Indianapolis, IN
College:
1st place:  Jessica Danielzuk – Augsburg College/Minneapolis, MN
2nd place: Mark Zion – Kennesaw State University, The Collegiate Recovery Center/Kennesaw, GA
3rd place: Leslie French – Olympic College/Bremerton, WA

"This essay contest was an excellent opportunity for recovering students enrolled in a recovery school, at both the high school and college level, to share their stories and provide insight into what it is like to be a young person in recovery.  These stories do an excellent job of highlighting the importance recovery schools are playing in their lives, “said Monique Bourgeois, Executive Director of the Association of Recovery Schools (ARS). 

 In addition, the essays will be shared with the public on the ATTC Network Web site, www.ATTCnetwork.org, along with nine additional submissions receiving honorable mention.  They will be included in a booklet celebrating the students’ work. 

---  The ATTC National Office is grateful to all of the students who took the time to share their very personal experiences with others.   It is hoped that these essays will not only inspire readers, but also motivate other students in recovery to continue on their path.  Ultimately, we hope the essays will encourage others to consider choosing a career in the addictions treatment and recovery services field in the future. 
 
For more information or to obtain a copy of In My Own Words… Honoring the Recovery School Students’ Personal Recovery Journeys - A compilation of essays, contact Deann Jepson, 816-235-6984 or by e-mail, jepsond@umkc.edu.    The ATTC Network is funded by SAMHSA/CSAT.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Learn more about the Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition (IAIC)

Jill Matheny, Director of IAIC, will be at the Fairbanks Recovery Center on December 16 at 7pm. Learn how to become a voice for educating, influencing and advocating for addiction issues. There is no cost to attend this informational meeting.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Fairbanks Recovery Holiday Extravaganza

Fairbanks is hosting the Recovery Holiday Extravaganza on Saturday, December 12 from 6:45pm – 12:00am.  There will be music from DJ Shue, dancing, games, Hors d’oeuvres, 50/50 raffle, door prizes and Circuit Speaker, Sister Ruth from Anderson, Indiana. If you plan on attending, please RSVP to Kathleen Gill at kgill@fairbankscd.org or 572-9469.

Friday, November 13, 2009

NBC Today Show interviews local Hope Academy student about her experience with Inhalants

Thursday, November 19, Hope Academy student and former Fairbanks patient, Ashley Upchurch will appear on the Today Show in a segment about the dangers of inhalant abuse among teenagers and children. As someone who formerly abused air duster on a weekly basis, Ashley will speak about the prevalence and the life threatening effects of a drug that is also a household item.

The Today Show interviewed Ashley at Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks, and captured a day in the life of a student in recovery from addiction. She was filmed participating in history and art class as well as with other Hope Academy students during recreational time.

In addition to the interview with Ashley, the Today Show will interview a family from Ohio that lost a child to inhalant abuse as well as an expert on the topic of inhalants. Another component to the this special will be a hidden camera that follows two young children through grocery stores and pharmacies to purchase items that could potentially be used for huffing.

Friday, November 6, 2009

Recovery - written by a Hope Academy Student

There are many things that I think are challenging about recovery. The most challenging thing about recovery is putting principles before personalities. When I was using I didn't care about how I treated others. Today, I have a conscience. I feel guilty when I treat people badly. I don't have to treat people that way today. In the 12 step program we have principles which we try to live by. They are: hope, honesty, faith, courage, integrity, willingness, humility, love, justice, perseverance, spirituality and service. That's a lot to swallow. The good thing about practicing principles before personalities is that it's progress, not perfection. I have always been a dishonest person, but I don't have to live that way today. When I tell a lie, no matter how big or small, I have the choice to go back and do my best to fix what I did wrong. The program and a loving sponsor have taught me how to live.

Throughout my journey I have been motivated to stay in recovery for many reasons. The reasons change from day to day. Some days I don't want to be sober at all, but I'm not willing to give up the clean time that I have. I stay sober for myself, my family, my friends and so that I can have a future. I don't ever want to live the life I was living when I came into treatment and I don't ever have to.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Fairbanks Holiday Bazaar November 13

Join us for the Fairbanks Holiday Bazaar on Friday, November 13 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm in the Recovery Center. There will be lots of items for your holiday shopping and its a great way to support Fairbanks!

Friday, October 23, 2009

A Reiki Clinic Offered at Fairbanks

Reiki Center of Indiana, a division of Center for the Heart and Soul, Inc., provides a Reiki Clinic for Fairbanks the last Wednesday of every month. The next clinic will be held on October 28 from 6:30pm – 8:45pm in the Recovery Center’s serenity room on the first floor.

Each recipient will lay on the massage table and receive Reiki from two or three Reiki practitioners for 15 minutes.  The Reiki practitioner will lightly touch specific areas on the fully clothed body of the recipient (no personal areas are touched).  A Reiki treatment provides energy that is needed to enhance relaxation and balance for mind, body and spirit. 

Reiki energy is the life force energy that flows through every living thing.  When we are ill the energy in our bodies is low or depleted.  Reiki restores the energy for the recipient to facilitate healing on all levels – physical, mental and emotional.  Reiki is a subtle, gentle, loving energy.  It is not affiliated with any particular religion or religious practice. 

Here are a few of the comments from Fairbanks’ patients after receiving a Reiki treatment

• Extremely relaxed and calm
• Unstressed
• I love doing this, it is a wonderful experience
• The stress was cut in half
• I came in with back pain and left with none  
• Remarkable, unexplainable
• I feel fantastic
• Amazing anxiety reduction
• Immense sense of peace
• Awesome experience.  I highly recommend this to anyone looking for good spiritual/meditation experiences. 
• It was wonderful
• Felt great – very uplifting

For more information about this program, visit the Reiki Center of Indiana’s website:  www.centerheartandsoul.com  or call 317-259-4599

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Back to the Basics Workshop coming up Saturday, October 24

Back to Basics, focusing on steps 1-9, will be presented by Cyndi Masters. This is a workshop you will not want to miss. Cyndi Masters is a renowned circuit speaker with 23 years of sobriety.

This workshop will be held on October 24 from 10am-3pm in the Fairbanks Recovery Center. There will be a break from 12pm-1pm for lunch. You may bring your own lunch, enjoy the Fresh Start Cafe or dine at one of the local eating establishments.

If you are interested in attending this event or would like to request more information, please contact Kathleen Gill at kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Cafeteria Renovation at Fairbanks

In the upcoming weeks Fairbanks will be experiencing some significant changes in the building for the cafeteria renovation as well as construction outside for an additional parking lot for staff. The project is expected to last from now, through the beginning of December. We are excited about making these important updates to the facility. Our new cafeteria will have the capacity to seat 130 people and it will feature a new configuration in order to address the former back up experienced in the soup and salad line. The new parking lot will allow more available parking spaces in the front of the building for visitors and patients. We are looking forward to having the capacity to better serve our patients, visitors and staff at Fairbanks.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Hope Academy and Fairbanks Featured on WTHR

Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks, is Indiana's first and only recovery high school. Hope Academy is designed for students committed to sobriety, personal growth and academic success. As part of National Recovery Month, Helene Cross, President and CEO of Fairbanks, spoke with Angela Cain at Channel 13 WTHR to discuss the importance of Hope Academy in this community.

Learn more about the focus segment here.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Local Community Organizations Celebrate National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in September

Local organizations across central Indiana have joined together to help spread awareness about drug and alcohol addiction in our community and celebrate real recovery and real people. Throughout the month, there have been various events to celebrate national recovery month.

We will conclude Recovery Month with the Recovery Month Celebration, taking place at the Harrison Center for the Arts on September 30th from 5:00 – 7:00 pm. The celebration will feature local musicians and artists, local treatment and recovery groups, and real people in recovery sharing their stories. Also, The Daniel Crowe Lifetime Recovery Advocate Award and the Advocate of the Year Award will be presented at the event.

More information about the events of Recovery Month and the Celebration can be found at www.drugfreemarioncounty.org.

Monday, September 14, 2009

September is Recovery Month. You can get involved.

September is National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month and there are a number of ways to get involved. The theme this year is "Together we learn, together we heal." Throughout the month the local community is coming together to bring awareness of addiction to the forefront by providing events and education at various locations.

The following are events that will take place this week

• September 14 -18: Indiana Addiction Recovery Month Symposium at The Wyndham Indianapolis West
• September 15: One Hour for Your Health Classes - Helping a Loved One with a Substance Use Problem at Community Hospital East
• September 16: Halfway House Tours at various locations
• September 19: Recovery Ride beginning at the Indiana State Capitol

Fore details on these events, please visit the Drug Free Marion County website here.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Annual Alumni Association Golf Tournament, September 26

The Fairbanks Alumni Association hosts its Annual Golf Tournament in September. This event attracts over a hundred local business leaders, Fairbanks' alumni and staff and members of the recovery community.

This year the Golf Outing will raise money for the Patient Scholarship Fund. The tournament is open to Alumni, the recovery community and anyone interested in having a day of fun, fellowship and golf.

The 17th Annual Golf Tournament will take place on September 26, 2009 at Iron Wood Golf Club. For more information about participating in the golf outing, please contact Judi Kramer at 317.572.9305.

Monday, August 31, 2009

Hope Academy students weigh in on national survey

The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University recently conducted a back to school survey of American attitudes on substance abuse (teens and adults). The results showed that 51 percent of 17-year olds have seen one or both of their parents drunk and 34 percent of 12 to 17 year olds have seen one or both of their parents drunk. According to the outcomes, this often has a direct impact on how adolescents view drinking. To see the outcomes click here.

Channel 6 came to Hope Academy to listen to what teens had to say about this subject. To view the video click here.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Recovery Cookout - September 5

The Indiana Addictions Issues Coalition is hosting a Recovery Cookout to kick off Recovery Month. The cookout will be held on September 5, from 1:00-6:00pm at the Park Tutor Shelter Pavilion (7200 N. College Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46240). There will be food, fun, fellowship and lots of information about advocacy for addiction recovery. Everyone is welcome to attend, but please bring a covered dish with you.

For more information about the Recovery Cookout, please visit www.recoveryindiana.org.

More Recovery Month events will be posted on the Fairbanks' blog in the upcoming weeks.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Alumni Picnic and Live Concert at Fairbanks this Saturday, August 22

The Fairbanks annual summer picnic will take place at Fairbanks on Saturday, August 22 at 11:30am – 3:00pm. The annual picnic is great time for fellowship with old and new friends from the programs at Fairbanks. There will be good food, music, games and prizes.

Later that evening, a live performance from Salvador Dali Lama Farm will take place in the Fairbanks Recovery Center. Performances will take place from 6:45-7:45pm and then will resume from 9-10pm.  You will enjoy original pop rock tunes with heavy vocals and harmonies from Salvador Dali Lama Farm. This concert will be the 7th musical event hosted by the alumni services department.

If you have questions about the Fairbanks Alumni picnic or live performances, please contact Kathleen Gill (kgill@fairbankscd.org) or Judi Kramer (jkramer@fairbankscd.org).

Friday, August 14, 2009

Hope Academy featured in the Indianapolis Star

Today, Hope Academy made the front page of the Indianapolis Star. Current students, graduates and staff share how Hope Academy is offering teens in recovery an alternative option to traditional school. Read the story here.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Secret Addiction in Taconic Crash? It's Possible

Good Morning America has been following the story of a car crash in New York that killed 8 people, including the woman behind the wheel. Evidence is suggesting that she was under the influence of alcohol and marijuana at the time of the accident.

The husband of the woman who caused the crash does not believe his wife was under the influence of substances, due to the fact that he never saw her abuse alcohol or drugs.

Could alcoholism and addiction be kept a secret from family and friends? A woman from Indiana revealed her addiction to alcohol on Good Morning America several months ago. Watch as she shares her story of her secret addiction.

Watch: Secret Addiction. It's possible.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Education for Adolescents at Fairbanks

When an adolescent comes to Fairbanks, education is always incorporated into their inpatient treatment plan. During the week, for two hours a day, adolescents spend time in the classroom, working on school work provided from their home classroom or preparing to earn their GED. A contract with the metropolitan school district of Lawrence Township has allowed Fairbanks to have a teacher throughout the traditional school year.

Christina Hunt has been an instructor at Fairbanks for 20 years. Typically she teaches 13 to 15 students in her classroom at one time. The primary goal is to keep the adolescents caught up with their school work so they are fully prepared when they return to their home classrooms or transition to Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks. This is important for both their education and recovery.

“I use recovery principles in the classroom for the students to have the most success,” said Christina. “It can
be overwhelming so, each day, we take things one step at a time and focus on what is most important that day.”

During Christina’s 20 years of working at Fairbanks, she has been able to build strong relationships with schools throughout Indiana. She works with every school to understand the different expectations and standards. Christina enjoys watching the transformation her students are able to make in a short period of time.

“A few times during the year I will get a phone call from a student saying they have made the honor roll
or graduated from high school,” said Christina. “That is always a rewarding feeling.”

A day in the life of an adolescent in the inpatient level of care at Fairbanks:

Inpatient Services
Detoxification (Detox)
Rehabilitation (Rehab)
Residential Services (Residential)
Family Counseling and Education

Outpatient Services
Partial Hospitalization (PHP)
Intensive Outpatient (IOP)
Adolescent Education Group
Family Counseling and Education

Long-Term Residential Living
HOWSE (Healing Opportunities Within a Sober Environment)

Recovery Management Services
Recovery Coaching
Tobacco Cessation
Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks
Parent Support Group

Friday, July 24, 2009

LaVerna Lodge offers family program

Addiction affects those closest to the individual struggling with the disease. The family program at LaVerna Lodge provides family 12 step support to those defined as family by the resident. The primary focus of the family program is for both the resident and his family to be united in recovery goals.

• A family group meets each Thursday evening, while the residents are away at a meeting 
• An additional meeting is held on Saturday of each month for those traveling from a distance
• Groups are kept to a maximum of 15 
• Basic education, decompression and direction are provided
• Every third month families, including the resident, are invited to a two day retreat at the Recovery Center at Fairbanks to develop a family plan for the future
• Residents and their families can request single family sessions as needed as it fits their schedule 

For more information visit www.lavernalodge.com.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Drugs and alcohol in the workplace: Fairbanks to host breakfast on July 7, 2009.

On July 7, 2009 at 7:45am Fairbanks will host an informative breakfast to business owners and managers to assist Indiana businesses in recognizing substance abuse warning signs in the workplace and offer assistance and solutions to these real problems.

Drug and alcohol problems in the workplace cost American employers billions of dollars each year. Identifying potential addiction issues early can save the lives, jobs, families and homes of employees. 

Untreated substance abuse and addiction contributes to: lost productivity, health problems, absenteeism, accidents, legal issues and employee turnover. Research has shown that focusing on substance abuse and helping your employees find treatment can save your company $12 for every $1 that you invest.

In addition to monthly breakfasts, Fairbanks offers educational sessions to local businesses Monday-Friday upon request. If you are interested in attending a breakfast or having a speaker visit your office please call Jason Farris at 317-572-9418 or e-mail jfarris@fairbankscd.org

Monday, July 13, 2009

Recovery management program offers voucher incentive

Staying connected is a key component to success in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. In fact, recovery management has become part of the Fairbanks full continuum of care. This service is provided at no additional cost for individuals who have completed the intensive outpatient program (IOP), and is recommended for six months to one year following treatment.

A new feature to this program is a voucher incentive for weekly attendance. Individuals who attend one hour of recovery management each week receive a $5 voucher which can be redeemed at the Fresh Start Café, the Fairbanks cafeteria, the Fairbanks gift shop or put towards rent at the supportive living apartments.

“Attendance for recovery management has increased due to the voucher program,” said Charlo Burrell, men’s recovery coach at Fairbanks. “It’s an opportunity to be rewarded for recovery.”

Recovery management groups are offered every Wednesday at various times for adult men and women. These groups were designed to support individuals new to recovery, but those with longer sobriety time are also welcome to attend. During these groups individuals learn coping skills, stress management and relapse prevention.

The recovery management voucher program is supported by the grant Fairbanks received from the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust. The Nina Mason Charitable Trust seeks to assist people in need, especially women, children and families; to protect animals and nature and to enrich community life in the metropolitan areas of Indianapolis and Phoenix.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Drugs and alcohol in the workplace: Fairbanks to host breakfast on July 7, 2009.

On July 7, 2009 at 7:45am Fairbanks will host an informative breakfast to business owners and managers to assist Indiana businesses in recognizing substance abuse warning signs in the workplace and offer assistance and solutions to these real problems.

Drug and alcohol problems in the workplace cost American employers billions of dollars each year. Identifying potential addiction issues early can save the lives, jobs, families and homes of employees. 

Untreated substance abuse and addiction contributes to: lost productivity, health problems, absenteeism, accidents, legal issues and employee turnover. Research has shown that focusing on substance abuse and helping your employees find treatment can save your company $12 for every $1 that you invest.

In addition to monthly breakfasts, Fairbanks offers educational sessions to local businesses Monday-Friday upon request. If you are interested in attending a breakfast or having a speaker visit your office please call Jason Farris at 317-572-9418 or e-mail jfarris@fairbankscd.org

Monday, June 29, 2009

Family and Social Services Administration Release report on Drug and Alcohol Abuse

Today, the FSSA released the 2008 State Epidemiological Profile. The findings showed that while tobacco use and underage drinking are still a serious problem in Indiana, the increase of prescription drug abuse is becoming more evident. Read the press release below.

Federally funded workgroup releases report on statewide drug and alcohol use

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U.S. Health and Human Services program informs and enhances prevention efforts throughout Indiana

INDIANAPOLIS--Today, the Family and Social Services Administration's (FSSA) Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) released the 2008 State Epidemiological Profile. The report shows that while tobacco use and underage drinking continue to plague Indiana, increased prescription drug abuse is also becoming evident throughout the state.

"This report provides the division with a comprehensive reporting of drug and alcohol use across Indiana," said DMHA Director Gina Eckart. "This information will help inform prevention and treatment initiatives at both the state and local levels."

Drawing from multiple data sources, the profile sheds light on several alcohol and substance abuse trends in Indiana:
Prescription drug abuse is becoming more prevalent. Monthly non-medical use of the stimulants Ritalin and Adderall increased among Indiana high school seniors, from 2.9 percent in 2007 to 3.3 percent in 2008. Also, treatment admissions for pain reliever and sedative/tranquilizer abuse across all Indiana age groups increased significantly from 5.5 percent in 2000 to 10.2 percent in 2006.

• Distribution of the pain reliever oxycodone (which goes by brand names such as OxyContin) to pharmacies, hospitals and doctors' offices in Indiana nearly doubled from about 29 million dosage units in 2002 to a projected 54 million in 2007.
  
• Methamphetamine lab seizures are down, but treatment is up. In 2007, 820 meth labs were seized by the Indiana State Police, down from a peak of 1,115 in 2004, and the percentage of people in treatment facilities listing meth as their primary drug increased from 1.5 percent in 2000 to 5.6 percent in 2006.
  Indiana's adult smoking prevalence (24 percent) is the sixth highest in the nation and significantly higher than the U.S. prevalence of 20 percent.
  
• 44 percent of Indiana high school students reported drinking alcohol in the month prior to the survey, and 28 percent engaged in binge drinking. This was comparable to the rest of the country, where 45 percent reported drinking and 25 percent reported binge drinking.
  
• Among adults 55 and older receiving treatment for substance abuse, the percentage reporting heroin as their primary substance jumped from 2.6 percent in 2003 to 8.1 percent in 2006. However, the percentage of Hoosier drug abusers, regardless of age, who reported heroin as their primary substance (2.3 percent) is much lower than the U.S. rate (13.9 percent).

"In the fight against substance abuse, it is important to understand the enemy," said Dr. Eric Wright, director of the IU Center for Health Policy and chair of the Indiana State Epidemiology and Outcomes Workgroup (SEOW) that authored the study. "This research helps us identify areas for improvement and take a targeted approach to treating at-risk populations."

This is the third annual report published by the Indiana SEOW, which was established through a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) as part of CSAP's Strategic Prevention Framework State Incentive Grant (SPF SIG) Program. The grant was awarded to the governor's office in July 2005 to establish a strategic framework for substance abuse prevention in Indiana.

To view the complete report, go to www.policyinstitute.iu.edu/health/2008epiprofile.

About the Center for Health Policy
The Center for Health Policy, created by the Indiana University School of Public and Environmental Affairs in 2006, collaborates with state and local government, as well as public and private health care organizations in health policy and program development, to conduct high-quality program evaluation and applied research on critical health policy-related issues. The Center for Health Policy faculty and staff serve as a bridge between academic health researchers and state and local government as well as healthcare organizations and community leaders. For more information, visit www.policyinstitute.iu.edu.

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Monday, June 22, 2009

Hope Academy will host eighth annual Association of Recovery Schools Conference - Race to Recovery
         
The Association of Recovery Schools is hosting its 8th annual National Conference at Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks on July 23, 24, and 25.  This conference attracts attendees from throughout the country from both high school and college campuses.

The pre-conference this year is focused on substance impacted youth and their special learning and behavioral needs. Presented by Dr. Sig Zielke, this research can be applied in any high school or college classroom situation. The pre-conference is Thursday, July 23rd from 8:30 to 12:30 p.m. and cost only $50 if registered by July 1st. The pre-conference includes breakfast, lunch and take home classroom tools.

The full conference begins at 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 23rd and features keynote speaker Randy Muck.  Randy Muck is the Chief of the Targeted Populations Branch at SAMSHA, Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT). As part of his duties, he is responsible for the development, implementation and evaluation of national programs for the treatment of adolescent substance use disorders. His portfolio has included numerous grant programs, such as the Adolescent Treatment Models study, the Adolescent Residential Treatment and Continuing Care program, Strengthening Communities for Youth, Effective Adolescent Treatment, State Adolescent Treatment Coordination, and Assertive Adolescent and Family Treatment.

Additional topics for the remainder of the conference include: Creating a Recovery Curriculum, Relapse tools, Strategies for Working with ADHD, Ethical Perspectives on Counseling Underage Drinkers and Using GAIN Assessments in Schools. There are many more topics to select from.

To learn more about the cost, exhibiting, sponsorships and location for the conference and the special dinner event to be held at the NCAA Hall of Champions on July 24th, please visit www.recoveryschools.org

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Are Doctors asking the right questions about chemical dependency and substance abuse?

Recently the Associated Press covered a story about the questions doctors are asking to uncover possible substance abuse problems with their patients. In this article it is noted that nearly half of emergency room visits involve illegal drug use, but often doctors are not asking the tough questions about drug and alcohol use.

Read more about how the National Institute on Drug Abuse is implementing a program to help doctors ask these questions, not only in the emergency room, but during any standard visit to the doctor's office.

Helping Doctors ask about Drug, Alcohol problems.

Monday, June 8, 2009

Fairbanks to host Dr. James Prochaska on June 11 and 12

Dr. James Prochaska, co-founder of the stages of change behavioral therapy model, will be the keynote speaker at the second annual Susan Li Conference, Research and Evidence-Based Practices in Addiction for Adolescents and Adults. The conference will take place at the Fairbanks Recovery Center on Thursday, June 11 and Friday June 12.

Dr. James Prochaska is Director of the Cancer Prevention Research Center and Professor of Clinical Health Psychology at the University of Rhode Island. He is the author of over 300 publications and is internationally recognized for his work. After his presentation on the Thursday, he will have a brief book signing session.

In addition to Dr. Prochaska, various other speakers will present both days on the following topics: motivational interviewing, underage drinking, Indiana drug trends and family therapy for addiction. Featured speakers include Trooper Tom Egler with the Indiana State Police department, Dr. Sigurd Zielke, clinical specialist at Fairbanks and Hope Academy, The Honorable Linda Chezem, professor at Purdue University, Elizabeth Matfeld, executive director of the National Liquor Law Enforcement Association in New York and more.

More information and registration is available online at www.fairbankscd.org. Please call Susan Day at 317-572-9401 or email her at sday@fairbankscd.org with questions.

Monday, June 1, 2009

Inhalant Abuse - Y-Press interviews teens in recovery

Y-Press, a local youth-media organization recently covered a story about the dangers of inhalant abuse. Three teenagers from Fairbanks and Hope Academy shared their own personal experiences to help educate the community on this widespread issue. Read the story here: Teens recall how huffing led to addiction.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Fairbanks Alumni Services Presents a Workshop on Spirituality in Recovery

Fairbanks is hosting a spirituality workshop on Saturday June 13th. Art Adams, Family Counselor at La Verna Lodge and Pastor at Church of Christ will be facilitating the workshop. “You Can’t Rush a River – Spirituality in Recovery,” will take place from 8:30am - 12:00pm in the Fairbanks Recovery Center. A continental breakfast will be provided.  The cost to attend is $25 per person. If you are interested in attending, please contact Judi Kramer at 317-572-9303.

Monday, May 18, 2009

Drugs and alcohol in the workplace: Fairbanks can help

On June 2, 2009 at 7:45am Fairbanks will host an informative breakfast to business owners and managers to assist Indiana businesses in recognizing substance abuse warning signs in the workplace and offer assistance and solutions to these real problems.

Drug and alcohol problems in the workplace cost American employers billions of dollars each year. Identifying potential addiction issues early can save the lives, jobs, families and homes of employees. 

Untreated substance abuse and addiction contributes to: lost productivity, health problems, absenteeism, accidents, legal issues and employee turnover. Research has shown that focusing on substance abuse and helping your employees find treatment can save your company $12 for every $1 that you invest.

In addition to monthly breakfasts, Fairbanks offers educational sessions to local businesses Monday-Friday upon request. If you are interested in attending a breakfast or having a speaker visit your office please call Jason Farris at 317-572-9418 or e-mail jfarris@fairbankscd.org

Monday, May 11, 2009

Ways to have fun and stay sober this summer

Summer is a time for fun and relaxation, but for someone in recovery this can also mean exposure to triggers for relapse. Post-treatment can be especially challenging, when returning to the people, places and things from your using days. Having fun and being sober is possible, but it could mean trying something new.  Instead of going to a bar or a party, here is a list of other activities that can be enjoyed while sober:

Movies: Join a group of friends for dinner and a movie
Sports: Go to your favorite sporting event or better yet, join a league!
Take a class: Sewing, photography, music? Sign up for a local class of something you've always wanted to try.
Book Clubs: There are hundreds of book clubs in your community just search the internet or visit your local library.
Exercise: Join a gym or take a bike ride on your favorite trail.  Maybe you’ll want to enter yourself in a 5k, triathlon or marathon!
Volunteer: Giving back is a vital element in recovery. Volunteer at Fairbanks or other local not-for-profits of interest.

There are plenty of ways to have clean and sober fun this summer. If you have questions about the recovery community happenings at Fairbanks, please contact Judi (jkramer@fairbankscd.org) or Kathleen (kgill@fairbankscd.org).

Monday, May 4, 2009

Fairbanks Circle of Hope Dinner tonight

Tonight, Fairbanks will host the eighth annual Fairbanks Circle of Hope Dinner, with legendary Broadway entertainer, Ben Vereen as the keynote speaker.  Each year we come together as a community to celebrate recovery and take another step toward eliminating the stigma of addiction.

During the evening, Norfolk Southern Corporation will be awarded with the Richard M. Fairbanks Circle of Hope Award in recognition of their DARS (Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation on Services) program. Norfolk Southern sets an example for all corporations of how an emphasis on prevention, intervention and treatment has saved lives, jobs and added numerous cost benefits to their corporation.

The Fairbanks Community Partnership Award will go to Dr. Virginia Caine, director of the Marion County Health Department, for her contributions in the field of addiction. Dr. Caine continually advocates for addiction to be at the forefront of her heath-related platforms and educates the community on addiction as a public health disease.

In addition to the recognition of the award recipients and our keynote speaker, two other very special individuals will have the opportunity to speak. A former patient, who has been in recovery for almost 3 years and a Hope Academy student, will share their experiences with Fairbanks and Hope Academy.

The proceeds from the dinner will support Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks. Hope Academy is a charter high school that gives students in recovery from drugs and alcohol an opportunity to attend school in an environment where their recovery and academic success is supported.

We hope that by joining together tonight, we can raise awareness of the disease of addiction and gain support from the entire community. Thank you for supporting Fairbanks and Hope Academy.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Volunteers make a difference at Fairbanks

Last week was National Volunteer Week and to recognize our volunteers, Fairbanks hosted a Volunteer Recognition Dinner on Friday, April 24th.  During the evening all volunteers were recognized for their service.  Special awards were handed out to 3 volunteers who have dedicated 5 years of service, 1 volunteer for 10 years of service, 1 volunteer for 15 years of service and 1 volunteer for 20 years of service!  In addition to these awards, 5 individuals were recognized for representing a core value of Fairbanks: wisdom, courage, hope, trust and serenity.

All of the volunteers combined devoted over 150,000 hours of service to Fairbanks in 2008.  The recipient of the Volunteer of the Year award volunteered over 2,200 hours last year.  That’s a full-time job!

As a nonprofit organization, volunteers are extremely important. Here are some facts about the volunteers at Fairbanks:

• Everyone working in the gift shop and the coffee shop are volunteers
• Volunteers come in week nights from 6 -7pm and lead groups with the adult inpatients
• Volunteers work in the access center
• The SLP drivers are on call for over 13 hours a day
• Volunteers drive our patients to various destinations, such as outside meetings, tours of supportive living facilities, doctor’s appointments and much more
• Volunteers work in the gym and encourage physical activity as part of recovery
• Our entire Fairbanks Board of Directors, Circle of Hope Committee, Hope Academy Board of Directors and all other committees within Fairbanks are volunteers

To learn more about how you can become a volunteer please contact Judi Kramer at jkramer@fairbankscd.org or Kathleen Gill at kgill@fairbankscd.org

Monday, April 20, 2009

Recovery Schools offer teens in recovery an alternative option for education

For teenagers in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, returning to the school environment with the same friends they once used with can be challenging. Across the country, recovery high schools are blooming as more communities see the need for them. Hope Academy, the recovery high school at Fairbanks, is Indianan's first and only recovery high school. Currently there are 21 recovery high schools in the United States.

CNN recently covered a story about recovery high schools and the difference they are making for high school students in recovery and their families. Read the story here: Recovery high school a 'soft landing' for post-rehab teens

Monday, April 13, 2009

Dear Cigarettes,

I always thought you were so cool. And I always thought you were so fun. You relieved my stress and anger, or so I thought. I took you everywhere I went because I loved the feeling you gave to me. The more I was with you, the more I couldn’t be without you. I started using you more and you always seemed to satisfy me. We became very close and I started risking myself and older people to buy you, so you could meet my needs. I stared slowing down and not being able to breathe as well because you had a firm hold on my neck. But I still stayed with you. You began to make me sick. I would get very angry with others when I couldn’t have you. I would steal and go behind my parent’s backs just to have you. I got desperate for you.

I am done with you now and I promise never to return. You caused me harm physically, emotionally and socially. I now feel so much better and I am able to concentrate on so much more because I don’t have to think about you. You ruin many people’s lives, but you’re not taking mine. I wish more people would outsmart you and see the truth about you. I don’t understand why we got so close. You are full of poisons and toxins. And well I really didn’t need that. So, I am done with you and I’m saying my final good bye and I hope others will follow my lead. Hopefully in the future you will be banished and will stop torturing people of all kinds.

Have fun destroying somebody else,
Anonymous

Fairbanks offers a nicotine dependence program in partnership with Indiana University. This program offers a step-by-step plan that is tailored to each person’s individual needs. For more information or to make an appointment, please call 317-579-7090 or e-mail shastings@fairbankscd.org.

Monday, April 6, 2009

April is Alcohol Awareness Month

Often when people think about alcohol abuse, they picture teenagers drinking or someone completely out of control. However, alcohol abuse is prevalent within many different groups, ages and social circumstances. Alcohol abuse occurs among college students, pregnant women, professionals, senior citizens and adolescents.

April recognizes the collective effort that goes into achieving recovery from alcohol abuse and addiction. Recovery involves a group of caring and trained individuals who support individuals in recovery as well as family and friends affected by the disease. 

The following is a list of physical and behavioral warning signs and symptoms of alcohol abuse and addiction.

Physical Signs

• Loss or increase of appetite
• Personal grooming declines
• Inability to sleep, awake at unusual times
• Pupils larger or smaller than usual
• Nausea, vomiting or excessive sweating
• Tremors or shakes of hands, feet or head

Behavioral Signs

• Change in overall attitude or personality
• Change in activities or hobbies
• Drop in grades at school or performance at work
• General lack of motivation, energy or self-esteem
• Moodiness, irritability or nervousness
• Secretive or suspicious behavior
• Chronic dishonesty

If you are concerned that you or someone you know might be addicted to drugs or alcohol, please contact the Fairbanks Access Center at 317-572-9396. The Access Center is open Monday through Friday from 8am-10:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 8am-5:30pm.

Monday, March 30, 2009

Saturday Night Performances at Fresh Start Cafe

The Fairbanks Alumni team is composing a calendar of events to create a coffee shop atmosphere at the Fresh Start Cafe where the recovery community can come and enjoy music, games, fellowship and fun in a safe and sober environment.

Fairbanks is currently looking for individuals who support recovery and would be willing to come and share their time and talent at the Fairbanks Recovery Center.

• Bands
• Solo artists
• Poetry reading
• Comedy
• Story telling
• Other talents

If you have questions or interest in auditioning, please contact Kathleen Gill at 572-9469 or kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Recovery Management for Adolescents

• Concerts
• Camping
• Sober parties
• Dining out
• Skiing

If you or someone you know would like more information on how to work with an adolescent recovery coach or seek more information on our recovery management groups, please contact Ashley English at 317-572-9451 or aenglish@fairbankscd.org.

Monday, March 16, 2009

National "Kick Butts Day" - Wednesday, March 25, 2009

National "Kick Butts Day" is Wednesday, March 25th. Kick Butts Day is a day of activism that empowers people to speak up and take action against the tobacco industry. The Indiana University Nicotine Dependence program at Fairbanks will be distributing information at Fairbanks and the Fairbanks Recovery Center from 11am-1pm.

Nationally, actions are being taken against the tobacco industry to help decrease the use of tobacco. The federal government has passed a $0.62 per pack tax increase on cigarettes and "little cigars." Due to this, the average cost of smoking one pack of cigarettes per day will increase to $1,800 per year.

The Nicotine Dependence program at Fairbanks is based on the world renown Mayo Clinic tobacco cessation method. All Fairbanks tobacco cessation plans are customized to meet the needs of each individual during a one on one consultation. Please call 317-579-7090 to talk further about your tobacco use or to receive program information.

Monday, March 9, 2009

Adult Recovery Management Groups

We are pleased to offer $5 Recovery Bucks for each full hour attendance of Recovery Management. Recovery Bucks, are just like cash and they are accepted at the Fresh Start Cafe, the Fairbanks Cafeteria and the Gift Shop. Recovery Bucks may also be used toward Behavioral Couples Therapy and for a Yoga class which is offered Wednesdays at 5:00pm and Saturdays at 10:00am in the Fairbanks Recovery Center.

On the last Wednesday of every month we offer a free, relaxing Reiki session to all Recovery Management attendees at 7:00 pm.

Groups meet every Wednesday in the Recovery Center. The men's recovery management group meets at the following times: 11:00am, 2:00pm, 5:45pm and 7:30pm. The women's recovery management group meets at 11:00am or 5:45pm.

For more information on adult recovery management at Fairbanks please contact: Charlo Burrell, men's recovery coach at 317-572-9316 or cburrell@fairbankscd.org or Becky Davis, women's recovery coach at 317-572-9372 or rdavis@fairbankscd.org.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Hope Academy Open Enrollment and Coffee with the Principal

Hope Academy is a tuition-free, charter high school that provides educational excellence and an achievement oriented curriculum with the promotion of sobriety and personal growth. Students will graduate engaged in a recovery lifestyle and ready for higher education or the workforce.

Coffee with Principal Stone

Please call 317.572.9356 or e-mail to RSVP.

Hope Academy Snapshots:

Monday, February 23, 2009

Stay connected to recovery through volunteering at Fairbanks

Volunteering is a way to carry the message of recovery. Our volunteers can best describe their experience:

• "There is nothing better than when I go to a meeting and see someone I had seen at Fairbanks and they tell me that my story helped them."
• "It keeps me coming back to Fairbanks and gets me outside of myself."
• "It helps remind me of the mess that my life was when I was a patient here and how much better my life is now."
• "It is amazing when you see the progress of others."
• "It is a way for me to give back what was so freely given to me."

Currently, Fairbanks has 128 volunteers who come back and give of their time and talent. The following are ways to get involved as a volunteer at Fairbanks:

• Gift shop
• Fresh Start Café
• Men and women's inpatient groups
• Saturday morning panel discussions
• Providing transportation to patients to various appointments and outside meetings
• Other various staff assistance positions

If interested, please contact Kathleen Gill at 317-572-9469 or kgill@fairbankscd.org.

Keep coming back. It works if you work it.

Monday, February 15, 2009

Family Support Meeting

The family support meeting is a place where family members can talk openly with each other, receive support and achieve a better understanding of addiction. Family members including spouses, significant others, parents, friends, pastors, children over the age of ten and employers are all welcome to attend. Family Counselor, Amy Owens, MA, LMHC, leads this meeting each week.

"Most family members want to be supportive, but do not always understand the best way to do this," said Owens. "The most supportive thing a family member can do is to attend an outside family support meeting each week. Doing so signals to their loved one that their family is committed to help them in recovery from the disease of addiction."

Owens provides resources and information about the importance of long-term recovery for family members who have loved ones in treatment at Fairbanks. In her two years of leading this program, Owens has consistently seen family members become more accepting, relaxed and confident after having the opportunity to share their stories.

"This meeting has taught me how to be supportive," said a family support meeting attendee. "I have a better understanding of what my mother is going through and I'm not the only person in this situation."

The family support meeting is held every Wednesday from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. in Fortune Hall and 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the Fairbanks Recovery Center. If you would like additional information about the family support meeting, please contact Amy Owens at 317.572.9336 or aowens@fairbankscd.org.