Today on International Overdose Awareness Day, 2 End The Stigma was honored to join forces with the Virginia Department of Corrections to shed light on the realities of addiction and recovery. Our Founder and CEO, Jill Cichowicz, had the privilege of presenting to inmates at the Virginia Correctional Center for Women in Goochland and the State Farm Correctional Center in Powhatan.
During her visit, Jill shared the personal story of her brother Scott, whose journey through addiction and recovery is at the heart of 2 End The Stigma’s mission. As she spoke about Scott’s experiences, his struggles, and the impact of addiction on her family, the room was filled with a sense of connection and understanding. We could see the power of Scott’s story resonating with the inmates, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles and that there is always hope, no matter where they are in their journey.
Breaking Down Barriers and Ending the Stigma
Our mission at 2 End The Stigma has always been clear: to eliminate the judgment and shame that so often surround addiction and recovery. Jill emphasized the need to break down these barriers, explaining that addiction is a disease that requires compassion and support—not criticism. We know that when we confront addiction without stigma, we open the door for more people to seek the help they need to reclaim their lives.
The inmates’ response to Scott’s story was a powerful reminder of why this work is so important. The courage to share their own experiences, to ask for help, and to believe in the possibility of recovery became more evident as the conversation continued. It’s in moments like these that we see the true impact of understanding and empathy—offering a hand of support rather than turning away.
Building a Path to Recovery
We believe that recovery is possible for anyone willing to take that step, and our goal is to help build the path that leads there. Through our educational initiatives, outreach programs, and partnerships, 2 End The Stigma works to connect individuals with the resources, support, and community they need to rebuild their lives.
During the presentation, Jill reminded the inmates that they are not defined by their past mistakes but by the choices they make moving forward. She encouraged them to see beyond their current circumstances and recognize that they have the power to create a brighter future. Together, we can dismantle the barriers that hold people back from embracing the possibility of recovery.
A Message of Hope
International Overdose Awareness Day is a time for us to come together as a global community to honor those we have lost to overdose, while also standing with those who are on the path to recovery. Jill’s presentation at the Virginia Correctional Center for Women and State Farm Correctional Center was a call to action—a reminder that we must continue to support those struggling with addiction and work tirelessly to end the stigma surrounding it.
At 2 End The Stigma, we believe that recovery is not only possible but also worth fighting for. By sharing stories like Scott’s, advocating for compassion over judgment, and creating a supportive network for those in need, we can change lives. Together, we can show the world that recovery is real, attainable, and something we all have the power to support. Let’s continue to spread hope, one story at a time.
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