Former NBA Star Chris Herren Impacts Local High School

EUGENE, Ore., Sept. 21, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The opioid epidemic has received more attention this year after 2016 being the deadliest year for drug overdoses.¹ International Fitness founder Troy Finfrock has been a long-time supporter of community programs. He felt it was time to make sure his community was aware of this problem, which takes the lives of three Oregonians every week.²

So, he reached out to new non-profit Live Purple – a cause for fitness – which is a movement focused on mental health in the youth, providing an addiction to wellness through fitness. One way they make an impact is through events that raise awareness of the problem and educate communities on the dangers of substance use, as well as how living a healthy lifestyle can prevent many of the risk factors.

"International Fitness was built around safe, enduring, and effective formulas for health and wellbeing, and we want that philosophy echoed in our community. Live Purple's mission to build healthy lifestyles from a young age and prevent substance abuse is so important," said Finfrock.

With 85% of their student body participating in sports, Marist Catholic High School understands the many benefits of healthy, active lifestyles. They jumped at the chance to provide this educational opportunity to students and their families. On September 22^nd, former NBA player Chris Herren will share his story of addiction, his miraculous recovery, and why he's committed to educating youth and at-risk populations.

Live Purple co-founder Chris Finch said, "We've seen how awareness sparks action in communities. It's the first step towards a solution and preventing youth from ever having to face it. We're building a new website that will be filled with information and resources for building healthy communities." Follow Live Purple on Instagram and Twitter (@livepurpleorg) and like their Facebook page to stay up to date.

International Fitness will continue to raise awareness by engaging with Live Purple's community impacts including an end-of-year campaign, which will help distribute Live Purple Impact Kits. These kits include medication deactivation bags, educational materials, and more. For more information about International Fitness or their Corporate Wellness programs call 541-914-0406 or email [email protected].

Contact [email protected] if you are interested in being a Live Purple fitness or corporate partner.

¹ https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2017/06/05/upshot/opioid-epidemic-drug-overdose-deaths-are-rising-faster-than-ever.html?mcubz=0
² http://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/PreventionWellness/SubstanceUse/Opioids/Pages/index.aspx

Media Contact:
Quy Le
206-851-5382
[email protected]

SOURCE Live Purple