Positive Directions, in partnership with Jewish Family Service of Westport, Weston, Wilton and Norwalk, will present an interactive panel discussion, “Behind Closed Doors? Alcoholism & Addiction in the Jewish Community” on Wednesday, April 21st at 7:00 pm at the offices of Positive Directions, 420 Post Road West in Westport. The presentation is free and open to the public.

The panelists will discuss and explore how long-standing cultural and religious traditions impact Jews confronting the issue of substance abuse and learn about available programs and services targeted to the Jewish community. Each panelist will give a brief presentation and answer questions in an informal discussion about the issues of alcoholism and addiction in the Jewish community.

The group will include: Steve G., a Jewish man presenting the point of view of a person in recovery; Bob Vietro, MS, LADC, NCAC II, Clinical Director at Positive Directions and expert in gambling addictions; Gail Karlitz, currently studying for certification as a Drug and Alcohol Recovery Counselor, who will speak about the impact of addiction on family members and Laurel Schwartz, Ph.D, Coordinator of Jewish Family Life Education (JFLE) for Jewish Family Service and their J PASS program (Jewish Partnership for Addiction Support & Services).

Jewish Family Service (www.ctjfs.org) is a non-profit, non-sectarian social service agency offering a comprehensive range of innovative services and programs designed to address contemporary problems and issues. The JFS client base includes individuals, couples, families and groups, ranging from young children to the elderly. Programs encompass the following areas: Counseling, Comprehensive Geriatric Care Services, Employment & Training, Employment Assistance, Case Management, Family Life Education, and College Counseling.  The JPASS program provides programs, materials, services and resources to help individuals face addiction, especially those looking for a Jewish connection. JFS offices are located at 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor, Stamford, and 431 Post Road East, Suite 11 in Westport.  For further information, please call 921-4161 (Stamford) or 454-4992 (Westport).

“Behind Closed Doors? Alcoholism & Addiction in the Jewish Community” program begins at 7:00 PM and is held at the offices of Positive Directions at 420 Post Road West in Westport (across from Whole Foods). The presentation is free and open to the public. To register and for more information, please call Positive Directions at 203-227-7644 or Eve Moskowitz at 203-421-4161.