Shining the light on substance abuse in Milwaukee starts by going red. Several community organizations are coming together to spotlight treatment and prevention through a campaign called Light and Unite Red.
Through steps and music, this group is using dance to fight addiction. The Mind, Body, and Soul Dancers are joining forces with more than 45 line dancing groups around the country to Light and Unite Red.
"We are hoping when people are seeing the color red flashing around the city that they are able to have those meaningful conversations with the youth, with the adults, about treatment and recovery," said Nzinga Khalid, Milwaukee County Prevention Coordinator.
Nzinga Khalid helped organize the week-long campaign. Thursday's event featured an anonymous resource phone bank at TODAY'S TMJ4.
Arthur Clements helped man the phones. He battled an addiction with synthetic marijuana.
"The closer I got to negativity the closer I got to using the substance," said Clements.
He has been clean for a year. He hopes other kids listen to his story.
"I went through years of this stuff. It's really not worth it. You are setting yourself up for a downfall. You gotta ask yourself do, 'Do I want to be here in the next five years or in the next ten years?" said Clements.
If you need help with substance abuse you can contact the Crisis Line at 414-257-7222 or dial 211.
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