By Erica Thomas, managing editor
The Will Bright Foundation, founded by Trussville City Councilor Lisa Bright and her husband Bill, was awarded a grant by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), through INSPIRE (Investments Supporting Partnerships in Recovery Ecosystems).
The INSPIRE initiative addresses the substance abuse crisis by assisting with workforce entry or re-entry programs. The Will Bright Foundation, in partnership with the University of Alabama and others, “will expand and enhance the ongoing recovery and training program of the foundation,” a press release stated.
Out of $9.4 million, the ARC awarded the Will Bright Foundation $355,858. Other sources are adding to the fund at the tune of $153,292. The grant will be used to expand and enhance a recovery and training program.
The Will Bright Foundations operates Restoration Springs, a traditional center in Fayette. The non-profit also assists those in recovery with employment services.
The recovery program the grant will help fund will offer comprehensive integrated services, including employment, education, housing, transportation and peer support services to those in recovery from substance abuse issues.
In all, 30 projects were awarded grants by the ARC. The grants will assist those struggling with addiction throughout the state, at a time when the focus of the opioid crisis has been lacking due to the coronavirus pandemic. ARC is also accepting applications for a second round of INSPIRE grants, which will award up to $10 million to more recovery-focused projects.