Shatterproof Challenge To Raise Awareness Of Addiction

NORWALK, Conn., March 6, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Shatterproof, a national organization committed to protecting children from developing addiction to alcohol or other drugs and ending the stigma and suffering of those affected by this disease, announced today the launch of a 20-city campaign to increase awareness and resources to fight the disease of addiction.  The Shatterproof Challenge is a series of rappelling events across the country that provides an opportunity for people of all ages to challenge themselves and raise money for a much-needed and neglected cause.

"The Shatterproof Challenge brings people together to conquer their fears by rappelling for the cause of addiction," said Gary Mendell, founder and CEO of Shatterproof.  "These events allow families and friends to say to the 22 million Americans who struggle with addiction every day – 'We care about you.'"

The first event in 2014 will kick-off in Pasadena at the Westin-Pasadena on March 12^th followed by Ft. Worth, Dallas, Milwaukee and many more cities across the nation.  A full list of cities and registration is available at https://secure.shatterproof.org/page/content/fundraising-events.

"It's time to say enough – enough suffering and loss to addiction," noted Mendell.  "In the United States addiction claims more than 135,000 lives every year. Shatterproof is working to help address this national health crisis and stop the cycle of addiction."

The Shatterproof Challenge is supporting key addiction policy initiatives at the federal and state levels and educating Americans through events, public service announcements and digital and social media. Corporations and employers can learn more about ways to support the Shatterproof Challenge by contacting Ann Herbst at [email protected]. Individuals can register online at https://secure.shatterproof.org/page/content/fundraising-events.

About Shatterproof
Shatterproof is a national organization committed to protecting children from developing addiction to alcohol or other drugs and ending the stigma and suffering of those affected by this disease.  In the U.S. alone, addiction to alcohol and other drugs claims more than 135,000 lives every year — 370 people every day, 15 every hour.  A well-funded, large-scale movement can alter the course of this disease and save countless lives.  It has worked for cancer, heart disease and diabetes. And it can work for addiction by bridging serious gaps in funding and resources.  Gary Mendell, a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, founded Shatterproof to educate, empower and equip families, educators, health care providers, legislators and others to address addiction on a national scale.  His son, Brian, passed away at the age of 25 after struggling with addiction for nearly ten years.  

For more information about Shatterproof, please visit www.shatterproof.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ShatterproofHQ.

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SOURCE Shatterproof