Elmhurst, IL – The Elmhurst Commission on Youth, along with the District 205 PTA Council and D205 Foundation, welcome former NBA player Chris Herren to a community event on Tuesday, November 29, beginning at 7 PM in the York High School Campbell (Green & White) Gym. Mr. Herren will share his story of overcoming drug addiction and finding the strength to define himself as a sober man. He has spoken to students and parents across the nation about healthy, real-life strategies for handling the pressures faced by today’s teenagers.

Mr. Herren’s message, shared in a brutally honest format, goes far beyond saying no to drugs, as he challenges students to recognize their strengths and celebrate their ability to be themselves. A five-minute introductory video will show highlights of his basketball career and his dream to play in the NBA, which began to unravel when h made a few bad decisions. He will take the audience on his journey from addiction to sobriety, while addressing themes of gateway drugs, prescription drug abuse, drinking and driving as well as self-harm.

To conclude the event, Mr. Herren will field questions from the audience. Following the presentation, Mr. Herren will greet anyone interested in speaking with him. The event will not be videotaped.

Organizations providing informational tables that evening are Rosecrance, Linden Oaks - Elmhurst and Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital. Additional sponsors of the event include Kickoff for Kids, Straight Ahead Network, L. W. Reedy Real Estate and the York, Bryan, Churchville and Sandburg PTAs.

Chris Herren will also present to all York High School students in a first period assembly the following morning, November 30, where he will again emphasize the importance of being yourself and not using unhealthy coping mechanisms.

For further details, please contact Youth Commission chair Jackie Tamer at jackietamer@gmail.com.