Powerful documentary focuses on addiction

ASHEBORO — “He thought he was only hurting himself. Couldn’t be further from the truth. You’re hurting everybody that loves you.”

These words — spoken by a parent — are from a powerful new documentary entitled “It Happens Here: One Addiction. Two Stories.” The 50-minute film recounts the journeys of two young Randolph County men ensnared in addiction and whose stories had very different outcomes. 

This film may forever change the way you think about addiction. 

The documentary was filmed, direct-ed, and produced by the talented folks at RhinoLeap Productions, a professional theater company based in Asheboro. Keaton’s Place commissioned the documentary to share with students in Asheboro City and Randolph County schools.

Data from individuals who have con-nected with Keaton’s Place in the past 30 months shows that nearly 70 percent first used alcohol or other drugs when they were 18 or younger — and that 25 percent were 13 or younger.

A free screening is scheduled for this Sunday, Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m. in Bicentennial Park, 135 Sunset Avenue. It is sponsored by BrightView and Keaton’s Place with support from Addiction Professionals North Carolina. 

Bring a chair or a blanket to spread on the grass in front of the Rotary Pavilion stage. There will be free water and popcorn. 

The film is suitable for young people in the eighth grade and older. Families are invited to bring their children. Church youth groups are encouraged to attend.  It may open the door to beginning an important conversation. 

Keaton’s Place, at 120 Worth Street, is a recovery resource center The primary mission of the organization is to help people find placement for treatment for alcohol and other drug addictions. 

Keaton’s Place also provides space for meetings and support groups for individuals in recovery and their families and loved ones. Visit www.keatons-place.org to see the current schedule. 

For more information, call 336-628-0070.