Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services Hosts Full-Day of Programming on Addiction & Recovery

BOCA RATON, Fla. - Jan. 19, 2018 - PRLog -- Substance abuse and opioid addiction has become a national crisis – and South Florida is one of its biggest victims. On Tuesday, Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services (JFS) joined with a number of local organizations in the South Florida community to host a full day of programming featuring author and mother Lisa Hillman and her son Jacob. The day included a lunch with Palm Beach County rabbis, a presentation to over 400 students from Katz Yeshiva High School and Donna Klein Jewish Academy High School, and finally an evening event open to the public with over 150 attendees.

Hillman shared her personal story of a mother facing her son's addiction, learning about herself and her family, and ultimately surviving. "The key takeaways I wish everyone would get from being a part of today's program, are to become more educated about addiction, seek help for your loved one when needed, and find the right resources," Hillman said.

Danielle Hartman, President & CEO of Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services, added: "Tonight was a really great opportunity for many people who might not have normally come to a program on this topic, to come out and hear the message. And based on the comments of the people in the audience, they were all very grateful and happy that they chose to be here tonight."

Tim Schnellenberger, owner of a Recovery Boot Camp and Healing Properties in Delray Beach and a former addict himself, attended the evening event and was impressed Lisa and Jacob's honesty. "I don't think Lisa realizes how unique she is because there are so many mothers who have addicted children out there who don't see it's a family disease," Schnellenberger said. "She owned her part and developed a program of her own by going to Al-Anon (support group for those who are dealing with an addicted family member) and learning as much as she could. Now she's sharing all she learned with others in need. It's really a pretty amazing message."

At the Rabbi luncheon earlier in the day, Lisa and Jacob shared their thoughts on what they would have liked to hear from their own Rabbi when fighting their battle. The Rabbis in the room listened and then spoke about their personal experiences and what they are currently doing in their own congregations.

Rabbi Andrew Rosenkranz of Temple Beth Torah in Wellington said: "Today is all about learning about an issue that's not discussed too much in the Jewish community and helping train us to service our congregation in a better way." He continued, "We received tremendous insights on how as a Rabbi, I can help others in my community. The Hillman's were so very personable and truthful and honest and courageous and I think that their being so forthcoming is going to be helpful to all of us here today."

Rabbi David Baum of Congregation Shaarei Kodesh in Boca Raton and President of Palm Beach County Board of Rabbis, who partially underwrote the lunch with JFS, added: "We put this meeting together in order to educate our Rabbis in Palm Beach County on the issue of opioid addiction and how to speak with families on this. To open the eyes of our Rabbis is critical. It's unfamiliar territory for many rabbis so this is an opportunity for them to learn and grow."

Pictures from all three events are available here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/1m1d14vgxlat8gv/AACArOfUOruIggBrb4apRSt0a?dl=0

About "Secret No More": A True Story of Hope for Parents with an Addicted Child

In the midst of America's worsening opioid crisis, healthcare and fundraising professional Lisa Hillman gives a searing memoir about her journey facing her son's addiction. Unlike similar stories, Secret No More is a mother's story, told by and about her, and details how the disease harms the entire family. Written in prose that is both brutally honest and at times poetic, the story offers a rarity in addiction literature: this one ends with hope. While the book portrays addiction accurately, its true worth is for parents and families, and anyone who loves an addict. It's a story of Hillman's recovery, the painful process of letting go of control and expectations, sharing her "secret" with colleagues, finding strength in support groups, and giving back to the addiction community. It's also a story of one mother's love for her child, and how shedding shame and guilt make room for a bolder kind of love. Learn more at www.LisaHillmanAuthor.com.

About Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services

Ruth & Norman Rales Jewish Family Services(JFS) provides help, hope and humanity through a comprehensive range of programs and services which support people of all ages and beliefs. With locations in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, JFS programs and services include food and financial assistance, senior services, counseling and mental health services, career and employment services, family and children's services and many volunteer opportunities. Funding is provided by private and corporate support, grants, special events and individuals who reach thousands in need each year. For more information contact 561-852-3333. Learn more at www.RalesJFS.org.