National Speaker, NBA Player, Addict to Talk Opioids at Geneseo School

GENESEO – NBA player Chris Herren takes his story of success, addiction and redemption across the country. Monday night, he will be at Geneseo Central School to talk about his journey and the opioid epidemic.

On Feb. 26 at 7 p.m. our school and community will have a wonderful opportunity to attend a special presentation by Chris Herren. Chris Herren is a former NBA player, author, and recovering substance abuse addict. Mr. Herren is a powerful speaker who is nationally recognized for his efforts to inspire others battling illness.

“The opioid epidemic destroying communities and cities across our nation has also impacted our county and village,” said Geneseo High School Principal Mike Salatel in a press release. “Our school and community have embraced the privilege of hosting this very important event. It’s only happening because of the generosity and commitment from the citizens of Geneseo. I strongly encourage families, friends, and neighbors to attend this special presentation.”

Herren’s presentation focuses on awareness, prevention, and support for communities.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Due to the expected large crowd and nature of the presentation, organizers ask that children at the elementary age and younger not attend. To accommodate families with younger children, the school will have childcare services available. Parents requesting childcare must contact the MS/HS main office at 243-3450, extension 1007, by Feb. 23 to sign up.

The event will serve as the kickoff to the Chris Herren Project Purple Initiative that the school will endorse for several years. THP Project Purple is a research-based program that promotes healthy choices for young people. The program focuses on self-esteem, suicide, and bullying as well. To learn more about the Chris Herren presentation and Project Purple, you can visit the Geneseo Central School webpage here and the THP Project webpage here.

As part of this initiative, purple ribbons and posters will go up throughout the school and village.

Anyone can contact the Middle School/High School main office at 243-3450, extension 1007, with any questions.

“Everyone will walk away from the night with greater understanding of addiction and increased focus on making a difference within our community,” said Salatel.