Dear Editor,
We are writing with an open invitation asking our New Canaan Community to come together for a common cause. This cause may not be the topic of conversation at the club this weekend and it won’t spark the next trendy fashions on Elm Street. But it affects each and every one of us.
As local residents, businessmen and volunteers, we have personally read too many stories of young people leaving us way too soon. We have seen too many adults not be able to function to their fullest potential. And we have seen too many seniors not be able to fully enjoy what should be their golden years. What do they have in common? These are our friends and neighbors. These are family members near and far. These folks all suffer from some form of substance misuse.
We have sadly witnessed first-hand the profound sadness and loss our New Canaan neighbors and friends experienced due to substance misuse. In a community as privileged and accomplished as ours, it may surprise many of you to learn about the depth of struggle affecting many of our residents. When we come together in September, we demonstrate our concern and support for all that these folks are going through. We also reaffirm our commitment to end the curse of substance misuse, addiction, and the collateral damage associated with this epidemic.
We come together to share a common call to action for our community. Please plan to gather with your friends and neighbors at the 3rd Annual Community Addiction Awareness Vigil on Thursday, September 5th from 7-8:15PM in downtown New Canaan. The event will include live music (starting at 6), the Hope & Remembrance Wall, resources, hopeful testimonials, and a candlelight vigil led by members of the local clergy. For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page or go to the New Canaan Parent Support Group website. You will be doing your part to show that our New Canaan Community is there for one other.
Thank you in advance,
Leo Karl III
Rob Mallozzi III