Added to the racial inequities of our nation's ''dubious anti-drug strategy'' is the inhibiting effect these antiquated laws and policies have on our drug treatment system.
Over the last 25 years we have made significant strides in understanding addiction and in our ability to help people with drug problems. But despite this progress, those of us leading treatment programs are limited in taking advantage of these scientific advances out fear of losing financing because we may be perceived as soft on drugs or coddling drug users.
Expanding drug treatment as an alternative to incarceration is a step in the right direction, but we could help many more people if we were less punitive in our anti-drug strategy.
Howard Josepher New York, May 11, 2008
The writer is president and chief executive of Exponents, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of people affected by drug addiction.
President and CEO:
Read "Point of View " an article written by Howard Josepher, Executive Director of Exponents and published in the New York Nonprofit Press October 2007 issue.
Video About Exponents
our mission:
Exponents is a 501(c)3 minority-led organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals affected by drug addiction, incarceration, and HIV/AIDS. Serving clients from the entire New York City area, Exponents' programs assist individuals and their families through difficult transitions — from addiction to recovery, from incarceration to civilian life, and from welfare to work.
a continuum of services:
Our programs are tailored to complement one another and to provide a continuum of services that help active drug users through all the varying stages of recovery. We don't just treat the problem — we help the person get better. Each of our programs builds skills, educates, and provides life-saving information. Individuals learn user-friendly techniques to manage stress, promote healthy behavior, avoid relapse, and become self-advocates.
ARRIVE graduate testimonial:
My experience with ARRIVE has been the most enlightening one of my life. It gave me the opportunity to learn about the diversity of people and my own capabilities. It gave me a support system that consisted of people who sincerely care. Most of all, it put me in a social forum where my voice could be heard and I could teach, share and advocate for the things I believe in. I'm grateful for the experience and I encourage everyone to come and be a part of something special and uplifting. GOD BLESS HOWIE AND SAM!!!
Your #1 protégé, Lydell Cheek
changing lives:
More than 1,200 people began to change their lives at Exponents this past year:
• Nearly 100% were substance users, and 90% had chronic illnesses • 95% were African-American and Latino • 58% were men and 42% were women • 772 individuals were HIV-positive • 70% had a history of incarceration • 90% were living below the federal poverty line • 75% were homeless
Our inclusive environment welcomes people of every race, gender, age, and sexual orientation. The diversity of our participants also includes people at varying stages of recovery.
