The Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board, in collaboration with Kids Win!, United Way of Lake County and the Lake County commissioners, recently partnered to bring former professional basketball player and motivational speaker Chris Herren’s message to Lake County students. Herren Talks Series presentations were held in the following districts: Willoughby-Eastlake, Painesville City, Wickliffe, Kirtland, Perry, Fairport Harbor, Madison and at Andrews Osborne Academy. Herren, who played for the Denver Nuggets, Boston Celtics and several overseas clubs, battled addiction throughout his career, “coming dangerously close to losing everything he held dear….” Now, living in recovery for over 16 years, Herren travels the world sharing his story, offering students a “unique perspective on addiction and recovery.” Herren noted that his approach is stark and authentic, allowing him to connect with audiences ranging from students to other professional athletes. His Lake County visit focused on speaking with seventh- and eighth-graders, emphasizing the importance of recognizing trusted voices within their circles — whether schools, families or communities — who can support them during challenging times. “It has been a privilege to talk to nearly 3,000 students,” he said. “I think this is the age to get involved to talk about drug use. If they are not stopping (substance) use now, at least I plant the seed, 10 years from now, that recovery is always possible and it is a beautiful thing.” Herren additionally reflected on growing up in a home impacted by addiction, and once promised his mother that he would never fall into “those traps,” but acknowledged how “easy it is to break such promises without strong support and perseverance.” Since 2009, Herren has spoken to over 2 million students, athletes, and community members, sparking honest discussions on the topics of substance use disorder and wellness, officials noted. “We aim to reach students beyond the traditional classroom setting by bringing Chris to Lake County,” said ADAMHS Board Executive Director Kim Fraser. “His message helps initiate crucial conversations, empowering school staff to guide students away from the paths of addiction and self-harm.” Willoughby-Eastlake Schools Superintendent Patrick Ward emphasized that students can only focus on academics if they feel safe and know they are cared for. “And this initiative is another way to remind them that teachers, counselors and coaches are there as resources,” he said. “While we may not always know what’s happening at home, statistics tell us that addiction, mental illness and drug use are real challenges. “Our goal is to equip students with the knowledge and confidence to navigate these issues,” Ward added. “Together, we are making a difference in the lives of Lake County residents.” Lake County Commissioner Richard Regovich said he was fortunate to hear Herren’s “powerful and impactful” address. “His message (‘Focusing on the First Day, Not the Last’ ) really inspires these young students to think about how alcohol and drugs can destroy lives,” Regovich said. United Way President and CEO Dione DeMitro added that the nonprofit organization was thrilled to play a part. “His story is a powerful example that substance abuse disorders do not discriminate and that even those who seemingly have it all can lose everything to the disease of alcoholism and drug addiction,” she said, “and we are confident that many students were positively impacted by his story.” For more information, visit www.herrentalks.com.