Chris Atwood was a beloved friend, son and brother who faced the challenges of substance use disorder with courage. He pursued treatment and recovery with determination, offering support and hope to others fighting similar battles – though, tragically, Atwood passed away from an accidental overdose.
The Chris Atwood Foundation was founded in 2013 to honor his memory, carry forward his legacy and work toward closing critical gaps in the healthcare system. At the time, comprehensive systems of care for individuals struggling with substance use were scarce, and the stigma surrounding addiction made it difficult to drive meaningful change.
The CAF responded by offering practical solutions, working to close the gaps in substance abuse recovery and providing effective assistance to those in need. Today, it continues to be a powerful force for healing and hope.
Expanding Naloxone Access
Naloxone is a safe medication that can reverse an overdose from prescription painkillers or heroin in as little as 30 seconds. The CAF has played a pivotal role in expanding access to this life-saving treatment. Through persistent advocacy, the organization successfully championed six legislative bills and became the first organization in Virginia to distribute naloxone.
Since then, The CAF has dispensed more than 127,000 doses of naloxone across the state, contributing to more than 2,000 reported overdose reversals. This effort has been a major step in reducing fatalities and offering a second chance to thousands.
Revive to Thrive Programs
TCAT’s Revive to Thrive initiative provides ongoing support to individuals throughout their recovery process, with various programs designed to assist at every stage of their journey.
- Recovery Housing Grants provide individuals in early recovery with a safe and supportive place to live. These grants cover two weeks of rent, moving expenses and other basic household needs. To date, more than 2,600 people have benefited from this program, gaining access to the stable environment necessary for lasting recovery.
- The HOPE Program works with individuals during and after incarceration, offering support as they re-enter society. By continuing to walk alongside people through their recovery journey, the team helps ensure they have the tools and guidance needed for a successful transition and sustained healing.
- The Comprehensive Harm Reduction Program is one of Virginia’s state-funded initiatives which uses a mobile outreach van to bring critical services directly into underserved communities. The program provides safer use supplies, wound care, disease testing, personal health care and naloxone. It also connects individuals to treatment providers and peer support, offering a judgement-free path to recovery.
- Family Support Programs offer one-on-one peer support for family members and parents in recovery. This initiative provides education, empathy and encouragement—helping families heal together and strengthening the foundation for long-term success.
Building the Future Through Peer Recovery
Peer support is at the heart of The CAF’s approach and embedded in all its programs. Peer recovery specialists, many of whom have personal experience with addiction, provide guidance and connect participants with critical resources.
The CAF operates the Recovery Community Center, a welcoming drop-in space in Fairfax designed for anyone seeking support. The center offers on-demand peer support, recovery groups, yoga and wellness classes, community events and a warm line for immediate help. It also connects individuals with job search resources and housing support, making it a one-stop hub for recovery services.
To build a stronger recovery workforce, The CAF launched its Peer Recovery Academy, which has already trained 135 individuals for careers in behavioral health. The organization plans to expand the program and introduce paid internships to create more opportunities for those passionate about supporting others on their recovery path.
Challenging the Stigma
“The biggest misconception about substance use disorder, is that it’s not a medical condition and that there is nothing you can do about it,” said Shelly Young, executive director of The Chris Atwood Foundation. “If you had a heart condition, the organ of impact would be your heart. With SUD, the organ of impact is your brain because substances literally rewire brains and are made to be addictive.”
Like any other health condition, SUD can be effectively treated, and countless individuals have found lasting recovery with the right care.
Over the past decade, The CAF has continued to make important strides in breaking the silence about mental health and addiction, but there is still much work to be done. Its approach is rooted in evidence-based practices and a strong belief in the life-changing potential of recovery.
Whether through financial contributions, volunteering or simply taking the time to get educated about SUD, everyone can play a role in supporting recovery.
To learn more about The Chris Atwood Foundation and find volunteer opportunities, visit its website here.
