Measures of success…
The alcoholic and addict support groups continue to operate well. Recently, participants volunteered to clean the centre and contribute some necessary supplies thus showing maturity in thinking of others and contributing to their own recovering instead of just expecting to receive.
The participants celebrate special sobriety milestones with other participants in their groups…a participant recently shared his personal journey with the group on the day he marked his 700th day of sobriety.
Support groups are increasing in number and in participants. They meet in HADA Astana community centre 13 times per week up from 10. The groups include:
- The various alcoholics groups continue to meet up to 3 times a week in the community centre and in four other areas.
- The co-dependents group of wives of alcoholics meets weekly.
- The drug addicts support group now meet 3 times a week instead of twice.
- The new group for adults who grew up with an alcoholic parent meet weekly.
- The new Unity of Addicts Anonymous group with universal addicts meet weekly.
Success story…A homeless lady often tried to sleep on the hot water pipes at the community centre was invited to the group meetings for tea. She was helped by group members to get needed medical checks and was admitted for short stay in rehabilitation. She is now coming to the groups, staying sober, and living in an apartment for 7 months. The participants have embraced her and accepted her as one of them.
Literature printing and distribution…
The bulletin board in the public corridor displaying information about addiction, alcoholism and other health issues was removed by a new tenant when renovating the corridor. They are considering whether it is worth re-mounting it and risk causing conflict.
Some challenges…
- The water level from recent flooding has remained too high to repair damages to the building.
- Some of the support groups, for example, the Kazak-language alcoholics group, need to find another location where they can meet more often and grow the group.
- Finding a balance between upholding firm but simple rules to prevent groups abusing their use of the centre and maintaining good relationships, enabling them to grow.
You can help…
If you wish to assist in changing the lives of those suffering with alcoholism and addiction in Kazakhstan and their families and wider community, please click on “Donate to this Project” in the right sidebar.
All gifts are tax deductible and will benefit this project in their entirety except for bank fees.
