Collegiate Recovery Community kicks off with free movie

Contact: Harriet Laird

STARKVILLE, Miss.--Mississippi State's Collegiate Recovery Community, in celebration of National Recovery Month, is sponsoring a free viewing of the feature documentary film "The Anonymous People" on Wednesday [Sept. 25] at 7:30 p.m. on MSU's Drill Field.

Open to all, the movie focuses on the need to "address addiction as a disease, and not as a moral failing as many in the public perceive it," said John Clay, CRC coordinator.

To accomplish this, the movie's producers suggest that "the more than 23.5 million people in long term recovery come out of the shadows and share the miracles of recovery with the public at large, who are often only exposed to the tragedies of active addiction."

The film has been called "a powerful combination of emotion, inspiration, and information." A trailer for the movie can be viewed by visiting http://vimeo.com/64948005.

This local movie premiere is the launch event for CRC efforts at MSU. A program of MSU's Department of Health Education and Wellness, the CRC offers integrated support services for students in recovery from addictions or eating disorders.

Clay said, "The program serves as a safe haven for recovering students. We want recovering students to have the same college experience as anyone else, but be able to do it while maintaining their sobriety. We feel that this movie is a great example of what can be accomplished through recovery."

MSU's Alpha Tau Omega fraternity has issued a challenge to other Greek organizations, offering a $200 donation to the charity of choice for the group with the most movie attendees.

Those attending are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair, and free popcorn and McAlister's tea will be provided. In case of rain, the viewing will move to the Colvard Student Union's Foster Ballroom.

Event sponsors include Community Counseling Services, McAlister's Deli, MSU's Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and the Department of Health Education and Wellness, and Golden Triangle Recovery Center.

For more information, contact Clay at 662-325-3192 or jclay@saffairs.msstate.edu. You can also visit the CRC at http://www.health.msstate.edu/health/crc.php.