“The focus oftentimes is about the worst day when it comes to speaking about addiction and not the first day. Kids need to understand how this begins rather than how it ends. Prevention starts on the first day.” – Chris Herren
The First Day Film, presented by Center on Addiction and Cigna, premiered on ESPN tonight, July 16, 2019. Our team was grateful to share the premiere at a special event in NYC with our presenting sponsors Cigna and Center on Addiction. The event featured a question & answer session with Chris Herren and Jonathan Hock on the film, as well as the need to refocus the conversation on substance use from the last day to the first. The film will re-air on Friday, July 19th at 7pm ET on ESPN and additional airing will be announced as they are scheduled.
The First Day film is an innovative approach and powerful tool for schools and communities across the United States to provide prevention education coupled with student materials, teacher resources and access to programs for individuals and families.
Film Overview:
Chris Herren, former professional basketball player, author and wellness advocate, has shared his story of recovery with over 1 million people nationwide. The First Day film chronicles this journey revealing Herren’s vulnerability and his profound connections with high school students who, in turn, have shared their stories of struggle and strength. Through the power of storytelling, The First Day addresses issues that school systems, communities and people across the country are impacted by, directly or indirectly, each day including substance use, other harmful behaviors and mental wellness.
About The Film:
The First Day is an innovative approach to prevention and wellness education with a look into the struggles facing our youth today. Filmed at public and private high schools over the course of a year, the lm chronicles Chris Herren’s journey revealing his profound connections with high school students who, in turn, have shared their stories of struggle and strength.
Through the power of storytelling, The First Day addresses issues that teens and communities are impacted by, directly or indirectly, from substance use to mental wellness and harmful behaviors. His words resonate and make an impact with a focus on the beginning; The First Day
Film Resources:
To accompany the film, a discussion guide has been created. The guide includes information for screenings, discussion starters, education and support resources.
Educational Materials: A teacher toolkit and common core aligned lesson plans, activities and handouts for middle and high school students were developed to support the film themes.
Give Back:
15% of all proceeds generated from the film will be used by nonprofit partners, including Center on Addiction I Partnership for Drug-Free Kids and Herren Project, to support programs and resources for individuals and families. Support is available through our nonprofit partners to learn more about substance use disorder and addiction or to navigate that next step forward in their recovery journey.
The First Day (Running Time: 47:02) is available for individual rental, immediate purchase and download on the film’s VIMEO platform for individuals, schools and communities. Start the conversation and share the message. To learn more about film, please visit: thefirstdayfilm.com
