Not One More Alabama

In November 2016, a group of family members and professionals gathered to address the epidemic of substance use disorders and specifically the alarming number of overdose deaths. Realizing that incarceration, shame, detachment, and harsh interventions resulted in poor and sometimes deadly results, this group decided to incorporate the nonprofit Not One More Alabama (NOMA). Organizers stepped into the public eye and began sharing their personal experiences to help others who were impacted by the disease of addiction and stigma associated with it. NOMA is working to erase the stigma associated with addiction by raising awareness, providing evidence-based education and support to families in our community. Evidence shows that detaching and isolating from a friend, co-worker or loved-one suffering from an alcohol or substance use disorder is ineffective and dangerous. Treating someone with dignity and compassion is a much more effective strategy. Anyone touched by addiction should be armed at all times with Naloxone (sold as Narcan). Naloxone is an opioid antagonist and can quickly reverse an overdose, yet many in the state of Alabama are unaware of how to obtain it. No prescription is needed and it will soon be available over the counter. Just ask a pharmacist for naloxone and you might save a precious life. Since forming in 2016, NOMA has hosted numerous educational, community and fellowship events including the popular End Addiction HSV Walk at Big Spring Park, Recovery at the River, Grief Support Workshop retreats, and weekly Family Support Group meetings. NOMA has also enjoyed a partnership with the Addiction Prevention Coalition in Birmingham and the Drug Education Council in Mobile to provide online and in person statewide educational events. Big plans for the recovery community are in the works for Huntsville and surrounding areas. Stay tuned as our community’s generous support allows us to strengthen and grow.