Brad’s Place flag flies in Clearview
A new flag is flying at a Clearview Township building on Highway 26 this month, marking a milestone in one organization’s mission to save lives.
Staff and supporters from Brad’s Place Addiction Treatment of Southern Georgian Bay gathered at the Emergency Hub and Fire Administration Centre in Stayner on Monday to raise the flag with municipal officials as a show of support for the cause and to proclaim August as Overdose Awareness Month in the Township of Clearview.
“Today, as we raise this flag, we are reminded of the gravity of the issue that brings us together: the devastating impact of overdoses on individuals, families and our entire community,” said Brad’s Place co-founder and president Melanie Lopes. “We gather not only to remember those we have lost but to reaffirm our commitment to saving lives and offering hope to those still struggling.”
Lopes’ family suffered a devastating loss in 2010 when her stepbrother overdosed at the age of 25. Prior to his death, Brad Buckner, a resident of Clearview, had sought help for his addiction but was unable to find a treatment option designed for youth and young adults, where he could feel safe and understood.
In a moment of raw vulnerability he confided, “I can’t discuss my issues in a group of old men that remind me of my father if my father is the root of my issues.”
The loss of a family member set Lopes on a journey to become a certified counsellor. She said the tragedy became a catalyst for change, with Buckner’s memory as the driving force.
“Overdoses are not just statistics; they represent real lives – sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, friends and neighbours. The pain of loss is profound and the ripple effects are felt throughout our community. But in this moment of reflection, we also find strength. Strength in unity, strength in compassion, and strength in action,” said Lopes. “We must continue to advocate for better access to treatment, for harm reduction strategies and for a society that supports, rather than shames, those who need help. Education, awareness and empathy are our most powerful tools in this fight. By raising this flag we are sending a message that every lifematters, that recovery is possible and that no one is alone in this journey.”
Brad’s Place is looking to establish a facility in Clearview but in the meantime has space in Collingwood and meets clients wherever they feel most comfortable and secure. The organization was founded in 2018 when 18 like-minded individuals set out to create a treatment centre that would have served Buckner. Brad’s Place is geared toward youth and young adults but Lopes said they have never turned anyone away, not due to age or financial barriers.
“The problem is everywhere,” said Lopes. “I would want the stigma dropped. It takes a strong person to say they want help. The most difficult step is that first phone call to us.”
Clients undergo an initial intake process, which is free, and usually get started pretty quickly with an initial six-month treatment plan. Clinical supervisor Carina Rodriguez and clinic intern Mallari Matchett say each plan is created in collaboration with the client and is tailored to their specific goals.
At Brad’s Place, trained addiction specialists offer therapeutic guidance to combat drug and alcohol addiction, navigate life’s stressors, build positive coping strategies and foster supportive relationships with their loved ones.
They say so far word about the service has spread through word of mouth and grassroots promotion but there are many barriers to treatment that staff is working to overcome including stigma, financial constraints, and a lack of awareness.
“We all have a shared passion for what we do with the youth,” said Rodriguez. “We have those lived experiences which really does change the dynamic.” Brad’s Place also has an Indigenous ambassador who sits on the board of directors and helps ensure clients have access to culturally appropriate resources.
“As a reconnecting Indigenous woman, I know how important it is for First Nations youth to connect to their culture,” said Nicole Rothney, a former addictions counsellor, adding that people who didn’t grow up in the culture may not know where to go for resources.
“Raising the flag serves as a reminder that overdose is a public health crisis that requires urgent attention and collective action as overdose continues to impact the lives of families in our communities,” said Mayor Doug Measures in his proclamation. “Overdose Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the risks and realities of overdose, to reduce the stigma of drug-related deaths, as well as to honour those who have lost their lives to overdose and support those affected by overdose.”
“It doesn’t feel real,” said Lopes. “I am so grateful to my amazing family and the board of directors. I can’t even describe the feeling. I hope Brad is up there and is proud of how he has been that catalyst for change.”
Brad’s Place currently offers one-on-one in- person sessions, as well as counselling online and by phone, and 24-hour connection. For more information and to donate to the cause, visit www. bradsplace.org. To book an appointment, call 705- 712-3699 or email info@bradsplace.org. The initial two-hour intake assessment is free and a one-hour in-person counselling session costs $ 75.
On Saturday, August 31, International Overdose Awareness Day, Brad’s Place is hosting a barbecue fundraiser and awareness event at Kinsmen Park in Stayner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The community is welcome to hear stories from people impacted by overdose and substance abuse. Naloxone kits and information will be available from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, and there will be a memorial art project to honour those who have lost their lives to overdose and addiction. All proceeds will go towards establishing a residential addition treatment facility in the area.
Trina Berlo photo: A flag-raising ceremony was held at the Emergency Hub and Fire Administration Centre on Highway 26 Monday in Stayner in support of Brad’s Place Addiction Treatment of Southern Georgian Bay.
