Season 1 Episode 7: Recovery Looks Like Us: Why Representation Matters in Every Community with Donald Griffin

In this episode of The NOCE Dose, host Bianca D. McCall engages with Donald Griffin, a peer recovery support specialist, discussing the complexities of recovery from substance use disorder, particularly within historically and intentionally oppressed communities. They explore personal stories, the impact of culture on recovery, and the role of organizations like Black Wall Street in providing culturally responsive support. The conversation emphasizes the importance of representation, understanding, and collaboration in addressing the opioid crisis and promoting healing.

About Donald Griffin

Donald Griffin’s journey led him to the last house on Black Wall Street, a symbolic place where he began to heal from the bumps and bruises of life. Having overcome the grip of alcohol and the scars left by addiction, he found clarity and purpose as his mind and body healed.Three years into his sobriety, Donald became acutely aware of the growing issues among the youth in Reno, Nevada—rising overdoses, homelessness, school dropouts, and suicides. Reflecting on the role models and influences that shaped his life, he felt a deep sense of responsibility and fear for the future.

Seven years later, Donald’s efforts have resulted in the installation of over 20 Narcan boxes throughout the Reno-Sparks area to combat the opioid crisis. Under his leadership, a youth Peer-to-Peer program has been developed and implemented in Washoe County School District. His organization also hosts suicide prevention, “Stop the Bleed,” and Harm Reduction classes, and provides essential services such as a diaper bank, food pantry, and street outreach team. The list of their contributions continues to grow.

As the Co-founder and Director, and a parent himself, Donald is dedicated to ensuring that youth receive the education they need in self-preservation, credit building, vocational skills, home economics, leadership training, and enjoying life while learning to become productive members of society. Above all, his goal is to help them develop a sense of pride in themselves.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any advice offered on the podcast is an educational context and is not intended as direct medical advice, nor as a replacement for it. If you are experiencing a medical or life emergency, please call 911. If you are experiencing a crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273 – 8255. If you are experiencing stress, and would like professional help please contact your insurance company to identify a therapist in your area or contact the organization you work for and ask about an employee assistance program.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.