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GPF Foundation raises funds to educate about drug use

In October, the GPF Foundation hosted the organization's third annual fundraiser, "An Evening of Inspiration," with a virtual audience of more than 300 attendees.

The event raised a significant amount of financial support for the foundation's ongoing work to inform young people about the risks of recreational drug use and to educate the medical community about how to appropriately diagnose and treat related dangers.

As part of the evening, the GPF Foundation awarded Lake County State's Attorney Mike Nerheim with the organization's first Harm Reduction Award, created to honor community leaders and partners who are working to combat the dangers associated with recreational drug use.

Nerheim was recognized for his progressive thinking when addressing the rising use of recreational drugs in the community. This includes the creation of A Way Out, a law enforcement-assisted deflection program designed to fast-track individuals with substance use disorders into treatment.

Participants can enter police departments within Lake County. The program ensures that no criminal charges will be sought for those who may be in possession of narcotics or paraphernalia. It is the first countywide program of its kind in Illinois.

Gabrielle Bernstein, the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of "The Universe Has Your Back" and New York Times bestseller "Super Attractor," was the keynote speaker. Bernstein's message spoke to this unique moment in time when stress is high and isolation has had an effect on so many people's lives.

She offered the audience ways to cope with their anxiety, including how to reposition negative thoughts, and breathing and relaxation exercises to help bring a sense of calm.

The event ended with an appearance by magician Dan White, who used audience volunteers to perform several illusions.

Throughout the event, the GPF Foundation reinforced the organization's mission and educated attendees about the rampant use and dangers of recreational drugs.

All proceeds from "An Evening of Inspiration" will be used to support the GPF Foundation's current initiatives, including an educational presentation on the potential harm involved when using MDMA, how to spot adverse reactions to the drug, and how to keep themselves and others safe.

A corresponding longitudinal study on the educational program's effectiveness, led by Dr. Steven Miller, associate professor of psychology at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, will begin in November 2020. The medical initiative supports the GPF Foundation Medical Fellows from NorthShore University HealthSystem and Cook County Hospital.

The Fellows' efforts on behalf of the GPF Foundation focus on researching and creating emergency room protocol for adverse reactions to MDMA/ecstasy and other recreational drugs, which have been recognized as a blind spot in the medical community.

Established in memory of Gregory Paul Friedman, the GPF Foundation is committed to saving lives by supporting education, appropriate treatment, and overall awareness of the dangers related to recreational drug use.

To learn more or to support the organization, visit gpffoundation.org.

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