For Immediate Release

Friday, Feb. 19, 2016

Contact: Captain Richard Flynn, PIO
Office: 781-316-3907
Cell: 781-844-1224
Email: rflynn@town.arlington.ma.us

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: john@jgpr.net

Arlington Police to Host A.C.T.S. Opioid Forum with Guest Speaker Woody Giessmann from Right Turn Recovery Center

ARLINGTON — Chief Frederick Ryan announces that the Arlington Police Department will host an Addiction Community Training and Support (A.C.T.S.) meeting with guest speaker Woody Giessmann from Right Turn recovery center next week.

The event will offer support, information and strategies for opioid users and their loved ones, and provide free doses of Narcan and training to attendees.

“Woody Giessmann will bring a unique insight on the challenges those struggling with the disease of addiction face on a daily basis, while providing resources for family and friends to help their loved ones recover,” Chief Ryan said. “We encourage residents to attend to obtain valuable resources and training surrounding addiction.”

WHEN:

Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 7-8 p.m.

WHERE:

Arlington Youth Counseling Center, Whittemore Robbins House, 670R Massachusetts Ave.

WHAT:

Members of Arlington A.C.T.S. and the Arlington Substance Users, Family, Friends and Community Group will host the forum, which will feature guest speaker Woody Giessmann, CEO and Founder of Right Turn. The nonprofit organization was established in March of 2003 and provides intensive outpatient treatment and extended care for addiction, medication assisted treatment and intervention.

Clinicians at Right Turn have developed evidence-based services, along with a creative approach to treatment that assists individuals who are seeking treatment on their way to a productive lifestyle.

A former drummer of the Del Fuegos, Giessmann’s involvement with the rock band allowed him to experience firsthand the devastating effects of drug and alcohol abuse. Recognizing a need to provide a unique approach to recovery, he launched Right Turn. Innovative services incorporate support, evidence-based treatment and creative expression through outpatient treatment and an extended care housing program.

A.C.T.S. is a major component of The Arlington Outreach Initiative, which is a plan of action inspired by the Gloucester Police Department ANGEL Initiative, created by Gloucester Police Chief Leonard Campanello. In addition to providing education and support, Arlington’s Outreach Initiative aims to help those who use substances and their families, friends and caregivers by making them aware of available treatment options and resources.

For more information about A.C.T.S. or The Arlington Outreach Initiative, visit the Arlington Police Department’s website.

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