Attorney Kevin Hyer and former Philadelphia Flyer hockey player, Chris Therien, hosted their inaugural fundraiser for their organizations, The Hyer Foundation and The Therien Foundation on Friday, May 12. The event was held at LBTGQ+ owned and operated The Hart Of Catering Company and Cafe at 2101 Sansom Street (https://thehartofcatering.com).
Finding a job and housing can be a major challenge for people in recovery. It can be difficult to find an employer who is willing to hire someone with a criminal record or a history of substance use disorder. It can also be difficult to find affordable housing that is safe and supportive. Common barriers for people in recovery include having a criminal record associated with their substance use, a lack of education or job skills, and stigma associated with addiction.
The lack of housing and employment opportunities can make it difficult for people in recovery to maintain their sobriety. When people are struggling to make ends meet, they may be more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress. However, people in recovery are more likely to stay sober if they have a job and a place to live. Having a job and a place to live can help people in recovery to rebuild their relationships with their families and friends as well as meaningfully contribute to their communities.
Located in Center City, The Hyer Calling Foundation, Inc. strives to transform the stigma around substance use disorder into informed action for the sake of creating a more inclusive and productive workplace. To do this, the Foundation works to equip employers and employees with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary for success.
The Therien Foundation is located in the Fishtown section of the city and provides financial support to individuals struggling with substance use disorders. They strive to reduce and remove financial barriers that prevent people from getting the treatment they need. They are also exploring ways to assist in securing safe and sober post-treatment housing.
Nancy McCormack from Everpresent Health and Wellness (everpresenthealthandwellness.com) and I were grateful to have been included, as The event was well-attended by a diverse group of stakeholders and supporters from the recovery community. The festivities featured an auction, live music, and a keynote address by Kevin Hyer, founder of The Hyer Foundation. Kendra Scott also made an appearance as she presented her signature pieces of jewelry in a pop-up store. John LeClair, Therien’s former roommate and teammate was in attendance and auctioned off two of his hockey sticks signed by him and Therien. Philadelphia Mayoral candidate, Allan Domb was also present and spent quality time interacting with and learning from the crowd.
The Hyer Foundation and The Therien Foundation are committed to helping people in recovery rebuild their lives and achieve their full potential. The funds raised from this event will make a real difference in the lives of those who are recovering.
If you would like to lend your support or learn more about The Hyer Foundation and The Therien Foundation, please visit their websites at www.hyercalling.org and www.thetherienfoundation.org.
Theresa M. Drass
(https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresamdrassmhsmsnrnpmhbcneabcnccclnc/ – [email protected])
Author: Theresa Drass
