The highest donors to Heart of Florida United Way are considered members of our Alexis de Tocqueville Society (ADT). The ADT Impact Series is designed to bring current community issues to the forefront with the insight of community leaders who are content experts recognized nationally and locally for their professional knowledge. Our first in the series addressed the current opioid epidemic facing Central Florida.

Each year, the opioid crisis continues to worsen as drug-related deaths continue to rise at an alarming rate. The epidemic facing our community and country affects men and women of all ages and income levels. What started as a prescribed medication to deal with pain can lead to an addiction that could ruin—or even end—someone’s life. It is destroying families and we are ready to do what we can to put an end to it.

Heart of Florida United Way’s 2-1-1 Information and Assistance Helpline is taking a leading role in addressing the epidemic because of their expertise in community resources and providing help to those who need it most. The Opioid Texting Program allows someone to anonymously reach out to get information and resources. Simply be texting “Opioid”to 898-211, you will be connected with resources and assistance about opioid addiction.

https://www.facebook.com/HeartofFloridaUnitedWay/videos/vl.1842525992717520/905805372943691/

A special thanks to our panelists who shared their point of view during a panel discussion moderated by Jeff Hayward, President and CEO of Heart of Florida United Way:

Tony Jenkins, Market President, Florida Blue
Carol Burkett, Director, Orange County Drug Free Coalition
Dr. Ademola Adewale, Emergency Medicine Physician, Florida Hospital East Orlando