A local non-profit says Alabama has one of the highest drug overdose rates in the country. Addiction affects thousands of people and their families each year.
That's why is raising money to build a new community recovery center in Â鶹´«Ã½.
But in order to make this dream a reality, they need funds. So, they hosted a unique fundraiser called "Cars for Cause."
For the last 30 years, Deke Damson and his wife Danielle have built an extensive car collection. He owns more than 90 cars of all different shapes, makes and models. He keeps each and every one in pristine condition.
Damson struggled with addiction himself. In 2005, he became addicted to opioids after a surgery.
"Ask for help, before it's too late," Damson explained. "We have way too many people dying and overdosing."
Damson thought he could overcome his addiction on his own, but he admits, his way didn't work. His family convinced him to get the help he needed.
"I spiraled out of control from that point," Damson continued. "It was affecting my family. It was affecting my business. It was affecting me, but I was the last one to know."
Now, Damson dedicates every day of his life to recovery. So much so, he became a "Not One More Alabama" board member.
Their mission is to assist people and families recovering from addiction. And now that Damson's on a better path, he's found a unique way to give back called "Cars for Cause."
At this fundraiser, folks could check out Damson's collection and participate in a silent auction.
Each dollar made went toward the new community recovery center. It's something board member Selina Mason says is long overdue.
"Â鶹´«Ã½ is innovative," Mason said. "We are really ahead of our time in so many ways, but we have to catch up when it comes to recovery resources."
Mason's son struggled with alcohol addiction. She wishes he'd had a center like this to support him.
"Recovery is real," Mason explained. "It's possible, and we want to provide an opportunity for people to have a gathering place that's safe. That's in a safe, sober place."
Now Damson's car collection is making the recovery center a reality.
"We feel like we can help people from the heart, from experience, and not out of a book," Damson said.
The new community recovery center will be built off Memorial Parkway and on Bob Wallace Avenue.
Mason says it's in the heart of Â鶹´«Ã½ and will essentially be the heart of recovery for so many folks in North Alabama.
A glimpse into Deke and Danielle Damson's extensive car collection.
