My recovery will always be at the top of my gratitude list, as it is the most precious gift I’ve ever received. ~Becky Vance
About a year ago, I had the pleasure of connecting with Becky Vance.
An unsung hero, Becky works in all aspects of her life to spread awareness and education so that your children might be spared the ravages of substance abuse and addiction.
She is responsible for directing media outreach in Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Becky is dedicated to teen substance abuse prevention. It is clear, and such a gift that she is passionate about promoting a drug-free life for families.
Without further ado, here is my interview with Becky Vance.
Why did you decide to join The Partnership at DrugFree.org?
I knew from my very first encounter with the organization (while working in prevention at the local level) that they were really making a difference. Their research, media campaigns and their people were all top-notch, passionate, creative, and I wanted to be a part of all of that! Being in long-term recovery myself, the opportunity to work with an organization I grew up with, and the opportunity to help so many people on such a large-scale, was very exciting.
A little background……………
In 2004, I had made the decision that I was tired of talking about drugs all of the time (for my work) because I was feeling burned out with it all. I accepted a job offer from one of my board members to work in the private sector. I was very excited and thrilled to be moving up the corporate ladder.
What I soon discovered was that job satisfaction doesn’t come from having a title that includes “Vice President.” It didn’t matter how many deals I closed or how much money I made. What mattered, for me at least, was making a difference–in the lives of people, and in the world.
I happened to run into a colleague from the “old days” and soon came to the realization that I missed the drug prevention world. I couldn’t just walk away! So I picked up the phone, called someone I’d met at The Partnership, and the next thing I knew I was flying to San Diego for an interview and landed the job.
Talk about God’s perfect timing! That was over 7 years ago and I still love what I do.
For those not familiar with the organization, please explain the goals of The Partnership and how it came to be.
Ninety percent of addictions start in the teenage years. The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids is dedicated to solving the problem of teen substance abuse. Together with experts in science, parenting and communications, the nonprofit translates research on teen behavior, addiction and treatment into useful and effective resources for both individuals and communities.
Working toward a vision where all young people will be able to live their lives free of drug and alcohol abuse, The Partnership at Drugfree.org collaborates with parents and other influencers to help them prevent and get help for drug and alcohol abuse by teens and young adults.
Since 1986, The Partnership (then known as the Partnership for a Drug-free America) has led the call to action to raise adolescent and parent awareness through award-winning campaigns such as “Your Brain on Drugs”. Twenty six years later, our impact has evolved to becoming the cause leader in the issue of teen and young adult substance abuse, and works daily to bring efficient information and hands-on guidance to communities across the country.
What challenges have you gone through that have contributed to your success?
I believe that overcoming my addiction has been the catalyst for my success. I have been fortunate enough to work in the field of prevention/intervention and treatment since I first got sober in 1988. I’ve had the opportunity to learn so much professionally that has helped me personally.
I’ve met some incredible people and learned so much from them. My recovery journey has given me all of the tools I need to succeed. As my self-confidence grew and I became willing to let go, I’ve had so many what I call “God moments” and they have brought me here, to where I am today.
There is absolutely no way that I would be here had I not found recovery. Now I am able to help so many people in so many different ways, and that is what truly makes my heart sing.
What overall message do you hope to share with parents concerned about their teen?
The primary message I want to share with parents is that they are not alone. When it comes to their kids and drugs they need to trust their gut and not be afraid to ask for help. Don’t let shame and stigma keep you from reaching out.
Taking that first step is very scary but the result of not taking action can be a lot more frightening. Addiction is a treatable disease, and the sooner you get help, the better the chance for a successful outcome.
Please name some important things that you feel parents can do to help prevent alcohol and drug abuse with their teen.
- Spend quality time with them and know who their friends are.
- Keep the lines of communication open at all times, so they will feel comfortable talking about anything.
- Listen.
- Set boundaries and model healthy behavior.
- Most importantly, do not try to be their best friend.
Begin talking to your kids early about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs.
What advice do you have for parents of addicts who are just coming to terms with the diagnosis or suspicion of their son or daughter’s alcohol or drug abuse?
Again, you are not alone, and we are here to help. Call our toll-free helpline (1-855-DRUGFREE) and speak to a professional. In addition to the expertise and support our counselors provide, we also have a network of other parents who have been through this and are willing to support you by sharing their experience, strength and hope.
Take care of yourselves while you are taking care of your teen.
This is vitally important for your own mental health. Taking care of yourself can mean Al-Anon or other 12-Step groups, parent support groups in your community, or professional counseling. Learn everything you can about this disease of addiction. Knowledge is power.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to travel, especially to beautiful beaches! This is where I feel most connected to my Higher Power and myself. I love to take long walks on those beaches and hunt for sea shells.
Each one is unique and beautiful in its own way. I bring some home from each vacation and put them in crystal vases so I can “revisit” them in my mind anytime. I also like to read and spend time with soul mate, who is also in recovery, and our little dog named Jazzy.
What ideas do you have to help prevent teen substance abuse? Please leave your thoughts in comments.
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