My Commitment:

• 10% of the revenue from each sale will be donated to the St. Cloud State University Recovery Community.

Why is Enlightened by Jen committed to this?

• When I served as Associate Dean of Students at SCSU, I was actively involved in working to reduce the personal and community harms associated with high-risk drinking.  You can read more about the extensive work done here. 
• As a result of this work, the need to provide greater support within collegiate environments for students in or seeking recovery became apparent. Some trusted colleagues and I were instrumental in the development and implementation of the St. Cloud State University Recovery Community, which was launched in 2012. The SCSU Recovery Community was the first collegiate recovery community at a public institution in the upper-Midwest. 
•  I continue to serve as a member on the SCSU Recovery Community Advisory Council and I'm a passionate advocate and supporter of the SCSU Recovery Resource Center.
• I will continue to use the platforms available to me to work to reduce the stigma associated with substance use disorder through education, advocacy and financial support.

Why does this matter?

• Research indicates that stigma is persistent, pervasive, and rooted in the belief that addiction is a personal choice reflecting a lack of willpower and a moral failing. Stigma damages the health and well-being of people with substance use disorder and interferes with both help-seeking and the quality of care received.
• Let's face it! Whether you admit it or not, all of us are touched by addiction in some way. 
• One way you can begin to help reduce stigma is to be mindful of the words you use.  Words do matter.  Learn more.
• I seek to create inclusive and welcoming environments where all feel included and valued.  I will provide education and encourage others to think about how we can reduce the focus on alcohol consumption at parties and events.

What can you do to support this endeavor?

• Let your inner "foodie" shine.  Make your events more about the food than the drink.
• Focus events on a particular theme or activity.
• Have a movie night or host a viewing party for a popular television show
• Organize a BBQ and play outdoor games like corn hole or giant Jenga.
• Invite friends for a game night with cards or a popular board game.
• Have a karaoke party
• Throw a dance party under a disco ball
• Put mocktails on the menu. An event invitation should clearly state that alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages will be available, so guests know they will have options. Make sure the non-alcoholic drink options are front and center.